First Rig Question

[Mark24688m 0]

Im probably going to be buying a rig within the next couple months. Im on my last AFP jump, so its time to start thinking about what I want. For my first rig, I want to get somthing safe, but still affordable. Originally I wanted an Infinity. I did a lot of research on them and they seem like amazing containers. But after thinking about for a while, I decided it would be a better investment for me to get a vector, so that I can incorporate a skyhook. The skyhook is another thing i did a ton of research on, and after reading everything about it I decided its probably an excellent choice to use one. So I switched my container choice over from the infinity to the micron. do you guys think thats a wise decision? overall, It will cost about $400-$500 more for a micron over an infinity, (Infinity starts at $1400, Micron at $1800)and the majory reason Im interested in the micron is almost solely for the Skyhook. Safety is extremely important to me, and also the most important factor for me in buying a rig. So, my question is, do you guys think its worth it to spend the extra $500+ and get a vector over another rig because of the skyhook option? If the skyhook will make it that much safer, im willing to wait the extra time and spend the extra money on it. What would you guys do?

[Superfletch 1]

I would buy a used rig that fits in your budget and put a 150-200 jumps on it. Then I would special order a rig after that. You'll probably downsize a few times before you reach 500 jumps and you'll want your canopies to still fit in your container. Just a thought.

However, i can also see your dilemma. I myself jump a MICRON. I think it's the best, most bulletproof rig on the market and I also have a skyhook to. It all comes down to personal preference. Good luck.

Gary "Superfletch" Fletcher
D-26145; USPA Coach, IAD/I, AFF/I
Videographer/Photographer

[Mark24688m 0]

how many sizes could i downsize and still fit in the same container? Ill probably start off with a 150-170 canopy depending on what i can find used because my exit weight is about 165. so your saying if i buy a new container ill eventually have to get a new one to fit the smaller canopies? because if not the container is somthing ide prefer to buy new, customize it to fit my body and my needs. ya know?

[Superfletch 1]

Most container manufacturer's suggest that you can go one size up or down in the container. It's been my experience you can go down a couple of sizes in some cases and still be pretty safe. I would talk to a local rigger or knowledgeable person in your area for specific suggestions pertaining to specific container/canopy sizes. Not all containers are created equal.

Anyhow, I suggest to all "first time" buyers to go used at first. Like I said, downsizing is an issue as well as... you don't always land on your feet in the beginning... wouldn't you hate mudding up and grass staining your brand new container all to hell.

Time and time again I have watched students order all brand new gear that matched and then one year later all their stuff is mismatched from downsizing or replacement from ruined equipment. Do yourself a favor and pick up a $2000 rig now and then drop for the $5000 rig in a couple of years.

Gary "Superfletch" Fletcher
D-26145; USPA Coach, IAD/I, AFF/I
Videographer/Photographer

[skybytch 273]

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So, my question is, do you guys think its worth it to spend the extra $500+ and get a vector over another rig because of the skyhook option?

No. But that's just my opinion; I think that the only time a Skyhook would possibly make a difference is if I cut away really, really fucking low and I hope that I will never have to do that. Likewise, my rig has a Cypres and an RSL installed; I hope that neither one ever has to save my ass.

Honestly though, in this case your opinion is the only one that matters - it's your money. My opinion is that every rig on the market is "safe" and is the "right rig" for somebody. Personally, I love my Infinity. I doubt that I'll ever own a container from another manufacturer, but that doesn't mean it's the right rig for you.

I would suggest that you put some jumps on both a Vector and an Infinity and maybe even some other containers as well before you make your decision.

[DougH 270]

You can still get nice gear if you go used. I got a rig with only 120 jumps on it, and now I don't have to cry every time I get the leg straps a little dirty.

It flys exactly like new gear, fits like new gear, I just don't get stuck with 2500 dollars worth of depreciation. Hell it even packs better than new gear.

"The restraining order says you're only allowed to touch me in freefall"
=P

[Reginald 0]

I did what you are talking about. I put 200 jumps on my first canopy and another 600 on the second all in the same rig. I still have the rig and use it. I love my V3. I'm very happy with my choices.

"We've been looking for the enemy for some time now. We've finally found him. We're surrounded. That simplifies things." CP

[brabzzz 0]

I'm torn between an Atom (weird French thing) and a V3+skyhook...which is getting onto 40% more. Part of me agrees with skybytch, the other bit says 'it's only money' in what is a stupidly expensive sport - and it stacks the odds that tiny littly bit more favourably as far as safety goes.

As for you, try and buy something used. MUCH better value for money as far as 1st rigs so.

---------------------------------------
Ex-University of Bristol Skydiving Club
www.skydivebristoluni.com

[pilotdave 0]

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I think that the only time a Skyhook would possibly make a difference is if I cut away really, really fucking low

I think it provides enough benefit even in normal (higher) cutaways (ie cleaner reserve deployments and connecting the freebag to the main) to make it worth buying, but of course that's a personal opinion. If you can't jump because you spent all your money on a more expensive rig, it's probably not worth it. But I do think it's incorrect to give the impression that the skyhook only has benefits in a very low cutaway.

Dave

[labrys 0]

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I think it provides enough benefit even in normal (higher) cutaways (ie cleaner reserve deployments and connecting the freebag to the main)

From what I understand (aided by one unplanned Skyhook cutaway) it also helps negate the dangers involved with being in a less than ideal body position during the cutaway as long as the RSL lanyard works.

So.. helpful for the lower than planned cutaway, better chance of a clean reserve deployment if cutting away unstable. Bonus feature of keeping the freebag with the main.

When I bought my V3 I asked the same questions as the OP. The answer I got was that if I ever "needed" the Skyhook for any of the above reasons it would be the best couple of hundred bucks I'd ever spent. I agree.

Owned by Remi #?

[skybytch 273]

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But I do think it's incorrect to give the impression that the skyhook only has benefits in a very low cutaway.

Well, like I said, that was only my opinion and it's worth what ya paid for it.

Once Bill starts allowing it to be fitted to rigs other than Vectors I'll probably have one installed. I just don't see enough value in it (considering my low aspect ratio, low wingloaded main) to replace my current rig with a Vector.

[labrys 0]

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Once Bill starts allowing it to be fitted to rigs other than Vectors I'll probably have one installed.

According to his recent posts, that should start happening this winter.

Owned by Remi #?

[Mark24688m 0]

so do you guys reccomend buying all used gear as a first rig, or used gear and a new container? if i buy new container, will i eventually need to downsize it, or will the downsized canopies fit in the original container? when you say "down a size" how big is that? is 10 sq ft considered a "size"

[Trae 1]

in reply to "so do you guys reccomend buying all used gear as a first rig, or used gear and a new container? if i buy new container, will i eventually need to downsize it, or will the downsized canopies fit in the original container? when you say "down a size" how big is that? is 10 sq ft considered a "size"
..................

Good 2nd hand's the go .
If you don't damage it too badly you can pass it on 3rd hand.
There's no big rush to downsize.
After you've got some skills on the intermediate stuff you can demo newer canopies at your leisure before you buy . By then you'll really know what you want.

Downsizes? say 230- 200- 170- 150- 135- 120 - 110- 100- 90...etc as a rough guide.

[DJmikeD 0]

I was also told to go second hand when I got my first rig, The problem I had is after about 2 months of searching I could not find something I was happy with. I decided to go with all new gear and ordered an infinity container that should be here next week. I also opted to go with the fusion 190 main and PD reserve. I also ordered the Vigil AAD. i cant wait to get the rig. The main colors are Neon Green and Royal blue. That should stand out a lot and when I talked with the guys who were building the container they said that it looks good with the Silver Binding tape. I have a feeling that I will get my suit and system all at the same time. My suit will have booties so there will be some time learning how to fly all over again with the new jump suit. The guys and gals at infinity have been great. when I called them up and even though I ordered it through the drop zone they guy said yeah I have it right here looks like we just have to add the harness and we are going to ship it out to you. the service was perfect.

"Falling is the easy part, Landing smoothly is the most importent part!
-DJ Mike

[AllisonH 0]

I was also told to get used gear first, and I looked for about 4 months, but didn't find anything that would fit me and the size canopies I wanted to put in it. I opted to get a new container and reserve, and a used main (170) and cypres. I have since traded the first main for a smaller one (150) of the same type at no cost other than shipping. I'm very happy with the way my container fits, and I'll be able to downsize one more time (to ~135) without needing a new one.