Tech Tip: StainLESS does not mean StainPROOF

A common misconception among divers is that stainless steel does not corrode at all. There are various types of stainless steel, each with different corrosion properties, that make a specific grade more or less suited to a particular application. Because there is no perfect stainless steel, the selection of the grade is often a compromise between corrosion resistance and malleability. Stainless grades selected because they hold a sharp cutting edge will corrode relatively fast compared to other grades. The most corrosion resistant grades are not usually a good choice for bolt snaps and hand tools because depending on the use application they may not offer the best wear resistance or may be too brittle.

StainLESS does not mean StainPROOF and all diving products made of stainless steel must receive some basic care to help minimise corrosion. Rinse any stainless steel components in dive equipment with fresh water after diving or when otherwise in contact with salt water, allow them to dry and do not store them in damp or moist environments. Make sure any storage sheath or pouch is also rinsed and allowed to dry before returning the stainless item to the pouch. When rinsing bolt snaps, be sure to work the bolt action several times to eject any saltwater trapped in the slider and spring mechanism. In particular, avoid storing stainless steel near or in contact with other metals having strongly dissimilar electropotentials, especially aluminum, such that moisture can induce galvanic corrosion. In cases of galvanic corrosion where the stainless item is in close proximity to some types of metals, rust or other colour stains will electrolytically transfer to the surface of the stainless item.

An invisible film forms on the surface of stainless steel when it's in contact with oxygen. This allows it to withstand damage from corrosives including many acids, bases, and detergents, as well as salt water. However, depending on envirionmental conditions you may notice some surface 'stains' that can form on various stainless items. In general these are cosmetic in nature and we recommend you allow the cosmetic stains to remain when practical. Using an abrasive is more likely to remove the invisible corrosion resistant film that forms on stainless, allowing corrosion to spread and ultimately making the corrosion worse.

Why Buy Scuba Equipment?

It's all about maximising your diving enjoyment

The Scuba Doctor dive shop in Melbourne

Scuba diving, like many recreational activities, is equipment intensive. Recreational scuba diving has grown from an obscure sport practiced by a small band of youthful and athletic adventurers into an activity enjoyed by millions around the world in all kinds of water. Increasingly sophisticated and reliable equipment, and the training to use it properly, are largely responsible for that growth.

Masks, fins and hoses
at The Scuba Doctor

Whether an item of dive gear is considered essential or desirable, each was conceived and developed to satisfy a definite need and perform a specific function. From regulator to gauges, mask to fins, and buoyancy compensator to wet suit, recreational scuba equipment is purposeful, interesting to use, and a big contributor to the overall fascination and attraction of diving.

Acquiring your own dive equipment is a major factor in the enjoyment of the sport. Sure, you can rent gear at many dive destinations, including The Scuba Doctor, but do you really want to rely on the availability of much-used rental equipment for your personal safety and enjoyment of diving?

Drysuits, wetsuits and undersuits
at The Scuba DoctorOwning your own dive gear has many advantages. As an Open Water certified diver, you can speed your learning curve and progress quickly into the open-water environment by purchasing and using a basic dive equipment package — regulator and BC in addition to mask, snorkel, and fins.

Learning how to scuba dive involves a lot more than learning how to breathe through a regulator underwater. You learn the art of buoyancy control, the subtleties of swimming and streamlining, and a host of other skills. Acquiring these skills quickly and comfortably has a lot to do with the equipment you use. If the BC is too small, you will struggle with it, which interferes with your learning. Fit and comfort are the prime criteria in selecting most items of dive gear; and in achieving maximum safety and pleasure underwater. The best way to ensure that your gear fits correctly and comfortably is to wear your own.

The "Wall of Temptation"
at The Scuba DoctorEven if loaner or rental equipment fits well, it may not be right for you because of particular features — or lack of them. Features are what distinguish one item of dive gear from another. When you buy your own gear, you evaluate and choose the features you need and appreciate. The process is fun, adds greatly to your knowledge of diving, and ensures that the gear you dive with does what you want it to, the way you want it to.

You will know how to operate it properly and care for it responsibly. You will know the condition of your gear, where it has been, and who has been using it. That familiarity contributes to the highest level of safety, which in turn gives you peace of mind.

OMS in stock at The Scuba DoctorOther less obvious, but still important, benefits accrue from owning dive gear. Buying gear deepens your relationship with your dive shop. A full-service shop like The Scuba Doctor is your conduit to diving. We offer training opportunities, arrange trips, keep you in contact with other divers, plus service and support your equipment. Having your own equipment also marks you as a serious, committed diver; and it encourages you to dive regularly, to stay involved in the sport.

The bottom line on equipment ownership: it's the way to achieve maximum enjoyment of diving. At The Scuba Doctor we believe that part of the commitment you are making to scuba diving should include acquiring your own dive gear. It's an excellent investment in yourself and in your future diving adventures.