Pumps

Which is the best to purchase and where? Thanks guys

I just bought a pump about 12 days back. This was my first pump and now I feel I should have gone in for a pump with a gauge.
So I would recommend going in for a pump with gauge though this is not absolutely critical.

Also look up the thread in the pumping section which talks about the cylinder size because I think that is very very important.

If you are looking for a cheap option then try ebay but if you are serious then you have many sites to choose from.
If you can spare some extra cash then go for a high end pump like Dr.Kaplans

Welcome aboard whiskey! Search around the Pumper’s Forum and most of your pump questions will be answered (the search function works wonderfully). Be sure to read this thread: Vacuum Pumping 101, it contains essential information for the novice pumper. LA pumps, Boston pumps, Vacu-Tech pumps, and Jim Diamond pumps are all reputable brands I have heard of around the forum. There are other brands as well, this is not a comprehensive list, but also look into building your own pump if you are keen to assembling simple hardware parts. Best of luck :)