[daz]

Originally Posted by [b

Quote[/b] (Sue @ Jan. 19 2004,16:58)]Thanks Tom, so do you think I'll get a better deal on the net as opposed to the dive show?
I've got to get everything (BC, 5mm wetsuit, fins, torch, computer, regs), so would it be better to try and get the whole lot at one place and ask for a massive discount, or shop around on the net and at the show?
Sorry, only ever rented equipment before, so a bit green....

Sue,

You might get a pretty good deal if you buy everything at one store.  But it is only a good deal if everything is exactly what you want.

Your best bet is to make a list of exactly what makes and models you are after and then see if what is on offer.  If you buy everything at one place you could be fobbed off with a compromise on what looks to be a good deal.

I was playing the same game at the NEC dive show with a mate who was after everything.  In the end we managed to get the majority of what he was after at one store with a few exceptions at another.

The dive shows are very much supply and demand,  If the stores have a big rush on certain items and are confident they can sell all their stock of said item they will not discount much.  The Suunto computers were very popular at the NEC dive show and I reckon internet prices were probably comparable by the Sunday.

Finally have you considered getting a shopping list and price list based on internet suppliers and seeing what your local dive store can offer in the way of price matching.  I would be willing to pay a small premium over internet prices for good local service.

Daz