frogslapper 0 #1 August 13, 2003 Hey everyone, I'm new to the forum and to skydiving. I've got 23 jumps and loving every second of it. I'm looking for my first rig but I'm confused with all the letters and numbers that go along with describing a rig that I don't understand. I know that the main and the reserver numbers stand for square feet but that's about it. Is there anywhere I can learn about what all these things mean, is there a book or something I can buy??? This is driving me crazy, I need my own rig right now!!!!!!! Thanks for reading this and I'd appreciate any info you could give me. Also I've worked my way down from a 260, to a 230, and now I'm jumping in a 190....is a 190 a good main to start with, do I dare go smaller with my limited experience??? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
AggieDave 6 #2 August 13, 2003 QuoteAlso I've worked my way down from a 260, to a 230, and now I'm jumping in a 190....is a 190 a good main to start with, do I dare go smaller with my limited experience??? We can't really tell you that, due to the many variables involved for each jumper. I'd talk to the instructors at your DZ to see what they think you should jump, since they're the ones who actually see your canopy control. As a general rule of thumb, though, you want to stay at a conservative wingloading for your first canopy. 1:1 is a good start, but may not be appropiate for you, so please talk to the instructors. As for the sizing thing. Check each manufacture's website, they have sizing charts that will tell you what size main and reserve each letter/number/whatever stands for.--"When I die, may I be surrounded by scattered chrome and burning gasoline." Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
mctyeire 0 #3 August 13, 2003 Welcome! I purchased a rig before I was done with AFF (very recently). Found a lot of info in the dropzone.com forums, talked to my instructors, of course...but mostly solicited the opinions of a few local riggers. Those guys are the real gear gurus, and will take care of you with regards to safety. Have any used gear you are considering purchasing inspected by your rigger. Chad good friends, blue skies, and sweet, sweet altitude... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
slotperfect 7 #4 August 13, 2003 Welcome to our world! Say hi to Sangiro, the creator of the fantastic family of ours. As far as all of your gear questions go, just jot them down and call me. I PM'd you my phone number. I'll be glad to answer all I can for you. Arrive Safely John Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
MikeTJumps 4 #5 August 13, 2003 Yes, there are good books on skydiving that will help you get through some of the maze of what to look for, but the best thing is to talk with your instructors who have a better feel for what you can handle. Don't hesitate to learn all you can before you buy!Mike Turoff Instructor Examiner, USPA Co-author of Parachuting, The Skydiver's Handbook Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
skymama 35 #6 August 13, 2003 Welcome to the forums! She is Da Man, and you better not mess with Da Man, because she will lay some keepdown on you faster than, well, really fast. ~Billvon Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Fast 0 #7 August 14, 2003 Welcome!~D Where troubles melt like lemon drops Away above the chimney tops That's where you'll find me. Swooping is taking one last poke at the bear before escaping it's cave - davelepka Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
b1jercat 0 #8 August 14, 2003 dude ,check out the gear and rigging forum and good luck. blue skies jerry Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
