Buying New vs Used Scuba Gear: Which Is Better for Beginners If you're a beginner on a tight budget and willing to do your homework, quality used gear can save you 40–60% without compromising safety—but only if you know what to inspect and where the hidden costs are. This guide breaks down the real financial, safety, and performance differences between buying new vs used scuba gear, with specific criteria you need to evaluate before handing over cash for either option. I've been diving since the late '70s and running dive ops in Florida for over four decades. I've watched hundreds of new divers make both smart and catastrophically stupid gear purchases. Here's what actually matters when you're deciding between new and used equipment. Quick Comparison: New vs Used Scuba Gear | Criterion | New Gear | Used Gear | |-----------|----------|-------- ...