Part of me says there's no reason to jump out of that airplane unless it's about to explode, but it also seems like one of those things that everyone should do at least once.
So is this gonna make me piss my pants or what? Any experiences to share?"
I've done four Static-line solo jumps with local clubs, and one tandem free-fall with a club in Florida. All the solos were done when I was in my early twenties, when I was full of piss and vinegar, but with little money.
I eventually had to decide between skydiving and scuba, scuba won out.
You will NEVER regret jumping! Even if you only do it once, it's an experience you'll never forget, something to "tell your grandchildren about"
I'd suggest that you do your first jump as a tandem freefall - you will exit at over 10,000 feet, and have about 40 seconds of the freefall sensation.
Most instructors do a complete somersault when they exit the plane. And by all means - pay the few bucks extra to have your jump recorded! I have videos of my wife's first static line jump, as well as her tandem. Her "Most fun with my clothes on" experiences.
If you go solo with static line,- these jumps done from about 3000 ft.- the hardest part will be getting out on the wing in preparation (if you jump from a small plane). This is when some people change their minds, and question their own sanity. The ground looks awfully close, and you are hanging off the wing strut, one foot on the locked wheel. It's a relief when the instructor finally tells you to let go. Once floating under your chute, all your regrets evaporate. You have several minutes to soak the scenery up before landing. You will probably be equipped with a two-way radio, and will be guided down by an instructor at the landing zone. If you time it just right, by "stalling" your chute at the correct time, you will remain upright, and walk away from the landing. But even if you miss it, the impact is no greater than jumping off the roof of a car.
GO FOR IT! and remember...... get it recorded!
Blue skys, Miles
unk:
