Thanks alot for all the info, and yes i am not going to buy anything yet. i am just trying to figure out what to rent to see what i like and see what people say about various gear. and i am sure i will love diving, i have been obsessed with the water since i was a kid and go snorkeling all the time. My dad was a Commercial diver for years so i grew up on boats and in the puget sound, so now I am excited to get certified to go explore it in more depth. Thanks again for all the help and i am sure i will ask more questions. i will keep you posted on what i decide to buy.