looking for bg info before i start growing

I haven't even attempted a first grow yet, im rereading Cannibus Grow Bible for the second time to make sure i got most of it as well as doing as much research as i can. basically what im looking for is some experienced advice on where the best place to buy most of the equipment is, as i'm growing soley for personal use and am looking for the best deals possible.

would it be cheaper/better to buy the lighting online? ebay? from someone on here? or straight from a grow shop like lowes/funks. I'm only lookin for a 600 watt HPS system, (ps. if anyone wants to sell one shoot me a PM) I assume the only place for the feed and growing medium would be a grow shop. Also what are the names of some quality grow shops that people use?

any ways these types of things are my questions so anyone willing to share a little expert advice would be greatl appreciated and probably worshipped:thumbsup:

thanks

Well, if you wanna grow for just yourself and no one else, grow some lowryder. You can find two or three different lowryders at www.seedboutique.com from a few different seedbanks. It'll be short, and flower regardless of your photoperiod, making it ideal for the personal grower.

As far as the lighting, maybe consider a smaller system to save you on energy, unless you're planning on growing more than 1 or 2 plants. You'll really get into it though and keep growing more and more though, so maybe it's best for you to get a large light :-) You can get away with a bunch of CFL's if you're just growing one or two lowryders, though.

Look for some hydroponic shops around your area, any decent sized metro area will have them. Also, keep reading these boards and you'll learn. The search function can also turn up a fair amount of info for you.