First Gear

[christopherm 0]

I've been exploring severel different options to buy by first set of gear. So far I haven't come across anything solid. I have a budget of about $2000 to work with minus the cypres. I've looked at a lot of used stuff but would like something that is reliable and might last a while. I was now thinking of purchasing a new container and buying the canopies used. Is this okay? Could I specify a container size and then buy my canopies a little larger so that I can downsize later? Thoughts on this would be greatly appreciated and any other ideas would be cool.
-So, how hard is the ground?!

[PhreeZone 20]

Basicly what you want when you get a container is the smallest container that will fit your combo of main and reserve that you can get if you plan on downsizing ever. You need to decide on the type and Size of your main and reserve before you can get the right size container. 7 cells pack smaller then 9 and certian reserves pack huge compaired to others.
A new container is going to set you back about 1000-1500 if you get most common options. In your budget that leaves 1000 for main and reserve. Is that going to be enough to get the main and reserve of your choice or are you going to have to settle for cheaper stuff?
Keep your eye out for used gear. I got mine used last year and it will last me as long as I see it going. Freefly friendly stuff is getting easier and easier to find used everyday.
Political Correctness - At least one person at any one time will be offended by something

[SkydiveMonkey 0]

A new container will probably set you back the best part of that 2000 bucks, so I'd go with second hand kit for a 100 / 200 jumps then look at something that you'll be jumping for a longer period. You should look at South African kit - I've ordered my rig complete from there for just over 1400 GBP - about your budget. That's all new kit with lots of options as well.
You shouldn't put a knife in the toaster - but you're an adult now !!!

[MarkM 0]

Quote

I was now thinking of purchasing a new container and buying the canopies used. Is this okay?

This is what I'm going to do. Already got a used Tri 160 and Swift 175 reserve. Will probably buy a custom Wings container to slap them into.
Try to price out what a decent used main/reserve will run you and then start looking at new containers around it. If that won't work, I guess buy a slightly used container.

[steve1 5]

New gear is really expensive. I ordered a used container from Lisa At Square 1, for $200. It had over a thousand jumps on it, but it is in about perfect shape. Maybe a little faded, but nothing is wrong with it. It's a talon 2 and fits very well. Give her a call. I'll bet she can set you up with another good deal.