| I think the point being made is:
That if you purchased a piece of equipment from your local shop and it needed a adjusting or something minor doing to it then your local guy will do this without charge (sometimes when its even out of warranty) as you have put business his way. It's called customer relations. Some people value this service and others just go for the cheapest option to save initial outlay which is understandable at the time.
Sounds like you haven't had too many problems with your kit which is good, but I can assure you that there are many divers who have and value this service. Maybe your perspective will change if you have a problem with your kit, maybe not. Maybe you've had bad service from your LDS. If so then your view is understandable.
It isn't a what's right and wrong matter, just a matter of choice. I've had quite a few guys in my shop who have made that same choice to order cheap online (you know who you are guys!) then been into me to rectify their problems.
If you happen to live near one of the cheaper online outlets then even better. You won't have a long drive to take you kit in. But the majority of divers don't. That's just a geographical thing.
Safe diving,
Steve  |