[SJAAboard] Tom Frayne's 2 telescopes

[Gary Mitchell]

Rob Hawley wrote:

>>If weight becomes a problem, I'd recommend removing the finder and leave
>>the Telrad.  They're easier to use, which is especially important for a
>>beginner.
>>
> 
> 
> You need both a magnifying and 1x finders.

Maybe you do.  I replaced the finder on my scope with a Telrad and don't
miss the finder at all.  And it's a pleasure to use, unlike the finder.
Keep in mind, these are loaner scopes--they need to be easy to use.

>  For the obscenely heavy 1980's
> vintage scopes like scope 8 the incremental weight of a Rigel was not
> significant.  Lighter weight scopes have closer tolerances.  
> 
> As I said try the Telrad on the scopes on the two scopes you suggest.  I
> think they will be too heavy.  If so we will purchase Rigels for them.

I just did a weight test.  There's no problem with scope 13 (the 6").
However, on scope 43 (the 4"), a Telrad, the finder, and an eyepiece
is just a little too much.  Fortunately, its finder is just as easy
to remove as the Telrad.  So, you can put on whichever you need at the
moment.  Another option is to add just a few ounces at the other end,
then you can have both at the same time... and we don't have to buy
anything new.

Gary