skyriderdoug

No, not that I'm aware of...

It's one of the best. Pick a day where they have built to 10 or 15k and do a hop-n-pop from altitude! There is nothing like "cloud surfing". Bring some friends and get some video. You can get into some pretty good dog-fights up there flying through holes, canyons, etc........ 13 men in a dead man's boat and the oars leak!?!

OK, a quick lesson in business............ How much should it cost? Just curious. Standard USPA AFF course should cost: 1st Jump = $160 With the Drop Zone making NO MONEY. Breakdown: 2 Instructors @ $35 a piece (some ppl need to make a living) 3 slots on the plane @ $20 per = $60 Student gear rental = $15 and that's just upkeep and a little bit of replacement after a few thousand jumps. Instructors pack jobs @ 7 per (packers need to live also) = 14 Do you want your jump video taped (which is becoming pretty standard for training purposes)? Who is paying for the upkeep and replacement on the camera's (which, by the way run about a grand a piece)? Who is paying for rent on the hangar where your jump planes are kept? Do you like those jump suits your given to wear? Who pays? With the bargain mindset your closing down dropzones. Things aren't free in this world.... OH, I almost forgot,,,,,,, What's the current gas price? If you still have a question hit me back and I'll give you more of a breakdown. Also, this sport is constantly evolving. Do you want to jump an old rig? Yes they work but I want the rig with the "current mods" for safety. Blue skies 13 men in a dead man's boat and the oars leak!?!

WOW, so you seriously need an explanation on why static line is a sub-par method of training.... you're attached to an airplane when you exit the door by the same line that will pull your main pin. What happens when you exit unstable and get deployed on your back? What happens when the static line wraps your ankle? Are you spinning? Do you back flip out and get it around your neck? How many static line deployments result in line twists? Oh, and don't forget if the static line wraps a main flap and won't pull your pin.. Have fun getting whipped around the sky still attached to an airplane. Use your "10 years" and think, WOW, you may just need a refresher course... 13 men in a dead man's boat and the oars leak!?!

I would definately go with either Elsinore or Perris Valley!! I would not do a static line jump regardless. There is a reason many dropzones don't offer this method of training any longer!! Also, don't necessarily go with the cheapest...... Do you really want a "bargain" when it comes to your life....... Just some thoughts. Enjoy your first!!!!!! 13 men in a dead man's boat and the oars leak!?!