I am almost ready to buy my first rig. I have been talking to several jumpers and instructors at my dz for help. For now my plan is to jump some demo sabre2 and spectres before deciding which one I like better. (I have been jumping Triathlon 260) The main question I have is with the reserve and container. Two possibilities have opened up so far. 1. A good dolphin container with a very comfortable fit. It would hold an R4 and 230 main tightly. 2. A J4 with a PD 193. I still have to check out the J4, although the rigger who is selling it is highly liked at my dz so I have reason to believe it will be in good shape. 3. Wait and try to find something else.
I am 5'7" and 217-220 plus gear and the thought of going down to a 230 main is scary. Several of my instructors have convinced me that the 230 will be much easier for me to flare than the 260, so I am ok with that. A 193 reserve sounds like it would have a lot higher wing loading than would be comfortable. All the riggers I have talked to say it would be perfect for me and my husband, but I am not convinced. Why would I want a smaller canopy in a reserve situation than what I was used to flying?
This rig will have to last us a few years (at least), but I don't want to have to use a small reserve before I have the skill for it. Any advice on what I should do? Is a 193 ok?
