A couple of months ago we gave you all the low down on what to look for when buying a BCD , and we got some great feedback. So we thought it was a time for another equipment related blog, and this time we are focusing on regulators.
Ultimately the reg set that is right for you will come down to what is most practical for the type of diving you do, and the environments you dive in. But here are a few things you should consider….
Many divers who err on the side of caution and take a more basic regulator set end up regretting it as their dive skills, qualifications, dive travel and general requirements expand. Prices vary, but to give you a general idea a basic first stage, second stages and gauge set like the Aqua Lung Calypso retails for just over 19,THB. Just like with a BCD, you should ideally try out a regulator before purchasing it. Perhaps you have a friend who already uses the model you are looking at?
Balanced regulators provide assistance at depth and resistance in the shallows, so that every breath of your dive is comfortable and consistent — even when your tank pressure is lower. An unbalanced regulator does not assist or resist breathing, so typically they breathe a bit harder on deeper dives and when running low on air.
The Aqua Lung Micron is a popular choice for both Koh Tao waters and beyond, as it is both balanced, and very light due to its compact design, making it ideal for the travelling diver. So if possible, choose a regulator that has the option of adjusting the air flow on your primary air source.
A snorkel is a nice to have and I've included it here as it's often considered part of a mask even though many divers don't use one. Replacement Parts: Within my first 25 dives I needed to replace a fin strap. Luckily I had a replacement. Get at least one extra fin strap, mask strap, some O-rings, a handful of zip ties, and snorkel keeper. One thing to confirm is that the replacement parts actually fit your gear.
For example, a fin strap might look like it'll fit, but it won't. Go ahead, ask me how I know. While you'll likely be able to signal your divemaster who will have a knife or snips, you'll feel more comfortable having your own.
And both a dive knife or snips will last forever. Dive Computer: If you dive multiple times on any given trip, you'll want a dive computer. The main reason is that you can't dive on your own without one — well you can, but who wants to mess with RDP tables!? So for a place like Bonaire where most of the dives are shore dives you can drive to yourself, you'll need a dive computer to keep you within the safe diving limits. Dry Bag: I see a lot of divers use plastic bags to keep their clothes or other items dry on a boat.
This can fail miserably when there's a lot of spray. I highly recommend getting a dry bag instead of relying on plastic bags — even zip lock bags will disappoint. Surface Signaling Devices: I've yet to see a dive shop offer surface signaling devices for rent presumably because the divemaster keeps everyone together and so a signaling device is highly unlikely to be needed.
Regardless, I recommend getting one for similar reasons as those for a dive computer. Basically, you'll want one should you ever want to dive your own profile.
An inflatable sausage and whistle combination is not that expensive either. However, they're bulky and they need to be maintained to continue to work correctly. One diver I talked to said she felt comfortable owning her BCD as she became used to it. Log in or Register now! Forums New posts Search forums. Media New media New comments Search media. Resources Latest reviews Search resources.
Members Current visitors. Log in Register. Search titles only. Search Advanced search…. New posts. Search forums. Log in. Install the app. Home Forums Diving Gear Regulators. JavaScript is disabled. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly. You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
Should I buy a regulator? Thread starter radsman Start date Jul 24, Please register or login Welcome to ScubaBoard, the world's largest scuba diving community.
Benefits of registering include Ability to post and comment on topics and discussions. A Free photo gallery to share your dive photos with the world. You can make this box go away Joining is quick and easy. Messages 4 Reaction score 0. This year I was trying to decide between a computer or a regulator.
But the guy at my LDS began to sell me on the virtues of owning your own reg. Seems like a wash and I'm not interested in servicing my own at this point.
Soooo this leads me to a series of questions Which should come first, the computer or the reg? Is it true that for most new regulators, they require you to have your reg serviced annually IF you want to have the parts warranty stay intact? Some articles I've read suggest that if you are not diving a ton you may only need to service your regulator every years. Is it hard on your regulator to dive it only once or twice a year ie. No matter what, you WILL need a regulator in order to dive underwater.
Therefore, this is arguably the most important piece of equipment to buy. Let me be fully honest with you here, despite what marketing might tell you: Most basic regulators from a manufacturer work the same as their premium offerings with only minor differences in cosmetics and build quality. Just make sure to consider whether you will need a coldwater regulator, and which valve type you use more often. Similar to dive computers, regulators are often the most expensive rental pieces at every dive base.
So in the long run, owning a scuba regulator can definitely save you money. Your life literally depends on well-maintained and functioning equipment, and none as much as the regulator. Therefore, it is very obvious to me that owning my scuba regulator and making sure it is well-maintained is much safer than renting one at a new place. You put the mouthpiece…well…in your mouth in order to breathe from it. Of course, we always clean our equipment after using it, however, it is pretty obvious why it is much nicer to have your own.
Regulators can be expensive, especially if you want good quality. The high price tag certainly puts off many beginners when they check for scuba regulators for the first time.
When you consider the additional cost of SPG, replacement mouthpieces, or a second first stage for coldwater diving , this cost rises quickly. These are my top picks for buying scuba diving boots for beginners online. Of course, the best option is always to buy from your local dive store or directly from your scuba diving instructor. Based in the US, Dive Right in Scuba offers a large inventory, super great support, and will be your one-stop shop for anything scuba diving. Another large retailer based in the US, Leisure Pro offers very competitive prices and carries all major scuba brands and items.
No introduction is needed on this one. Amazon carries a large inventory of scuba diving equipment, most notably accessories, ABC sets, and dive computers. If you want to see more recommendations, check out my where to buy diving equipment article.
For more details, review our Privacy Policy. Now that we have looked at what scuba regulators do, and when it is a good idea to buy one as a beginner diver, let me give you a few more tips before listing my recommendations. Even if you never dive under ice or in lakes at home, I recommend going for a coldwater certified regulator.
They are usually very well made, not a lot more expensive than their warm water siblings, and allow you much more flexibility if you do choose to dive at colder dive spots.
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