I would suggest heading on down to your closest REI/Hudson Trail/EMS or local caving/hiking/climbing store. Talk with the sales people; many of them are active participants of the sports, for which they sell products. Most of these stores have pamphlets, brochures for both equipment selection and contact information for local climbing instruction/clubs. Touch base with the area climbing/outdoor schools/classes, which will often allow you to “try-out” a variety of equipment as well as allow you to refresh/learn your climbing/rappelling skills. Equipment selection is like most things, a matter of personal choice and familiarity.

Pete