surfing slabs?

[garbarrage]

listening to a couple of vastly more experienced mates talking the other day about surfing some of the heavier spots around, one of them reckoned he makes about 2 out of 10 take offs at a particular spot. got me thinking if this is the case then when is the right time to step up and start hitting the slabs (somewhat literally)? surely a wipe-out is a wipe-out no matter what your experience. not for a second advocating that complete beginners head out on any wave as they can't control their boards etc. and pose a danger to others.

not about to go chasing DOH stand up barrels, but been looking at some of these heavier spots on smaller days head to a foot over and thinking why not give it a go? what's the worst that can happen? I can take off pretty deep on most beaches and some of the mellower reefs. and as the evenings get longer coming into that time of the year where I can get out most days and have my twice yearly progression spurt. maybe it's nearly time to try and pull in. recently I've been pulling into close-out barrels on the beach more for a laugh than anything else so pretty sure I'm capable of making one or two. have hit a couple of boulder reefs after missing take-offs before. does it get much worse on the slabs?

thinking about buying a cheap board to destroy if needs be. really interested to hear your opinions (from the more experienced guys, particularly from DBBB as you don't seem to pull any punches). would ask the mates in question but couldn't trust them as they'd egg me on either way if they thought they'd get a laugh out of it. any input appreciated.

[captain mainwaring]

personally, ive always enjoyed getting trashed out there, part of the fun to me. if you dont push your boundaries, you will never progress. progression is part of the enjoyment of surfing (part). a few sessions of pushing the boundaries, a few of easy wave riding is the way to go, dont think about falling off, because that will make you fall off, just think of the wall of water and charge. just go for it my friend, thats what i say

[esonscar]

Go look at it being surfed.
Understand how the Ocean moves on and around it.
Note if anyone gets injured and why.
Asses the risk compared to you skill.
Go For It !