First Rig & the Downsizing Process

[Gato 0]

Of course, I'm interested in what you all think, but I'd like some riggers' opinions.

I've done multiple searches on the topics of one's first rig and downsizing mains, and I keep seeing people talking about how you'll want to downsize several times before you reach 500 jumps. Therefore, it's best to buy all used gear first and put 100 or 200 jumps on it, and get rid of it so you can buy the ultra-plus-good custom job. Is this true? Is this what most people do?

In addition, I've seen other people recommend getting a new container, sized to accommodate 3 mains: what you fly first, and what you're able to downsize to, twice in the same container. For example, the container is sized for a 190, and you squeeze a 210 into it now, later on going down to a 170. Is this realistic?

I started jumping so that I can eventually fly a wingsuit. I know it's too early to think about this, and I'm OK with that. I do know that I won't want a small high performance canopy over me while in a wingsuit, regardless of what level I attain. My intention is to do everything I can in this sport in due time, and to do so conservatively and safely. If you can train in the wingsuit at 200 jumps, at what point should one look for a container with this in mind?

My apologies if this is the wrong forum for this - it IS primarily about gear.

Besides, I'm afraid some of the Bird-peeps might smack me down in the WS forum.

Gato

T.I.N.S.

[Lindercles 0]

Not everybody chooses to downsize. I bought good used gear at 25 jumps, which included a 170 main. At 180 jumps I ordered a new custom container sized for a 170 and put the old main in it. I'm still flying the very same 170 I bought at 25 jumps and I have no intention of downsizing any time soon.

YMMV of course, but don't plan to downsize just because you're "supposed to."

[PhreeZone 20]

I bought a rig sized for a 170 used when I started. About 1200 jumps later I'm still using the same container, reserve and Cypres. I have downsized a few times in there but there is no rule that says you will. Save some money and get used gear and jump more.

Yesterday is history
And tomorrow is a mystery

Parachutemanuals.com

[GravityGirl 0]

I think people tend to look at the "First Gear Purchase" with a cookie cutter mentality.

First, find out what sizes you want/need right now.
Then find out what size harness will fit your body.
Then start shopping with an open mind.

You are looking for good quality gear that fits your current needs as well as at least one downsize of main parachute....

....WITH A GOOD RESALE VALUE.

If you get a good deal on used OR new and treat your gear well, you will enjoy a good resale value. That way IF you do downsize again, you won't be out of pocket too much.

So when you find the gear you need, consider it's resale value. Is it old and about to expire? Don't be the last guy holding the bag! Is it an unpopular or older model? You don't want to sit and wait for a buyer when it's time to trade down.

If you find good modern sport gear at a good price, you can downsize fairly painlessly.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Peace and Blue Skies!
Bonnie ==>Gravity Gear!

[Gato 0]

Hey, thanks Lindercles, Phreezone, and GravityGirl -

Your insight is very much appreciated. Mighty refreshing.


Gato

T.I.N.S.

[JohanW 0]

Quote

Of course, I'm interested in what you all think, but I'd like some riggers' opinions.

disclaimer: IANAR

Quote

[snip]

I do know that I won't want a small high performance canopy over me while in a wingsuit, regardless of what level I attain.

[snip]

You might. Or you might want a small medium performance canopy. People I know are jumping wingsuits with a Velocity 90, Crossfire 99, Triathlon 120, Pilot 124. Not saying you should, or it's smart, or even it can be done, but it is done.

Buy what you want to fly now (with an eye on resale value); trade-in or buy additionally (some people [gasp] have more than one rig for different disciplines) if, when and what comes up.

Johan.
I am. I think.

[NewGuy2005 53]

Who says you have to downsize? It's not a requirement. I like my big dumb floaty canopy. It lets me down easy and allows me to have more control over when I land so I can avoid traffic.

[NWFlyer 2]

What Bonnie said about resale value definitely held true for me. My first main was a Spectre that I bought for $850 when it had 450 jumps and had just been relined. I put 200 jumps on it over about 18 months, and sold it for $800. I figured a quarter a jump is a pretty good usage fee.

"There is only one basic human right, the right to do as you damn well please. And with it comes the only basic human duty, the duty to take the consequences." -P.J. O'Rourke

[LordRatner 0]

Ya, I said the same thing about downsizing, until I got good at landing. Now the story is a bit different.

Canopy work and landing are as fun for me as freefall.

[MagicGuy 0]

Quote

Who says you have to downsize? It's not a requirement. I like my big dumb floaty canopy. It lets me down easy and allows me to have more control over when I land so I can avoid traffic.

Eh, you have 27 jumps. I thought I'd want to stay on my canopy for a while. But when you can't make it into your pattern on a long spot, and aren't getting the forward movement that you'd like, your opinions may change.

[grue 1]

I can't speak for others, but buying a used rig was difficult for me because of my size (tall + long torso), so I ended up buying a new container and reserve, with a used canopy.

I had VSE build my Infinity to fit a 190 main, and then put a 210 on it. It was very tight but it worked for the 65-odd jumps I put on that canopy. I just put my new 190 in there and it's not nearly as evil to pack. Kelly @ VSE said I shouldn't have any problem going to a 170 of the same model canopy.

So that's my story.

cavete terrae.