What sort of a SCUBA Diver doesn't want their own gear?! It's normal and as we all know, the shinier the better! There really is nothing better than owning your own gear and being able to go diving whenever you want! Whether you're just starting out, going in a different direction or looking to upgrade you're options are;
Rent
Buy New
Buy Second Hand
So, is second hand gear worth bothering with?
YES!
It's important to understand what you're getting into though!
Rent
For some people, owning gear just doesn't make sense how often your diving vs the cost of getting your kit serviced; https://www.thescubagroup.co.uk/post/what-do-i-need-to-know-about-scuba-equipment-servicing if this is you then think about the rental kit that is serviced and maintained regularly and have a hassle free dive!
If you're diving more regularly or are looking to acquire your own equipment,
New Equipment
We're a SCUBA diving shop, of course we sell equipment! We work with a number of suppliers to source equipment for our divers, to see who we work with visit the shop page and scroll down! https://www.thescubagroup.co.uk/the-dive-shop
it's a nice option for our customers but our primary source of revenue has always been in training and bringing divers on through the PADI syllabus.
Whilst it means we can source great equipment and competitive prices, it means we don't HAVE to. This means if you see something that looks great on any of the resale sites, you can ask us and trust us for an honest opinion!
If new and shiny is the way you're heading then check out what we've got here; https://www.thescubagroup.co.uk/equipment-sales
Second hand equipment
Purchasing second hand gear is absolutely an option that any diver should consider; Facebook, eBay, Craigslist etc, sometimes we're even selling second hand kit on behalf of our divers and the school. So there are plenty of places that you can find people looking to move their old kit on to someone else.
There is a risk with buying second hand but with a bit of thought you can mitigate these risks and find some absolute gems - just make sure you're buying what you need and not, what's on offer because it's cheap!
Things to think about when buying second hand gear
Buying second hand can yield some great bargains but it can also cause a lot of stress! There are no guarantees and rarely is there a money back option so make sure you know what you're buying when you do buy second hand!
What's the reason for the sale?
Is someone giving up diving, are they upgrading or is it broken / stolen or just useless? One mans trash is rarely another's treasure in this sport!
Meet in person if possible
Purchase with a credit card or through Paypal if posssible.
Is the seller obviously a diver?
BCD's
Valves
ALL Second hand regulators will need servicing!
Smell
So you've weighed it all up, taken the plunge and bought some equipment - CONGRATULATIONS! However you buy it, there is nothing better than owning your own gear and being able to go diving whenever you want!
If you're not ready to pull the trigger just yet, don't forget to all of our students and friends we're more than happy to have a look at what you're thinking about buying and offer you some advice so get in touch
Have you / would you buy second hand equipment?
Ask your question
Yes - I have and I would again!
Yes - I have, I've learned my lesson, never again!
No - I've not found the right thing when I've looked.
No - This is life safety!
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