Tube only?

[CowsonConcrete]

Hi,

I'm thinking of buying a reflector telescope but As I currently have an EQ2 mount I don't want another. Does anyone know of a site where I can buy a tube only and get more scope for my pound.

I also realise this is my 50th post so I get to access the fabled buy/sell section of the site!

Thanks

[brantuk]

Nice try but you also need 30 days membership lol

Most places sell ota's - have a look at FLO. But I would advise that you ensure the EQ2 will support whatever you get - weight plays a big part in how steady the scope is and can play havoc with observing if the mount's too small

Edit - just realised you joined Oct 2010 (not 2011) - you might just scrape in

[damnut]

Hi there,

You will find that most retailers will sell an OTA (Optical Tube Assembly) on its own, though it often does not work out such good value. For instance a skywatcher 150 pl is £186, on a mount = £272, yet the mount if you buy it alone is £164.

So it may be worth buying a package and selling on the mount.

Well worth looking at the for sale section, make sure your mount that you have is man enough for the job!!.

Good Luck

[CowsonConcrete]

Thanks guys. I don't have loads of money to spend and was looking at £200 max. I'll check out the max weight for the mount.

However thanks for the term OTA; maybe using that in google will increase my success rate.

Thanks again gents,

[John]

An EQ2 will carry a 130mm F/5 newtonian but thats the maximum. When they do come up for sale used they do not cost a great deal - £50 or so I would think.

[nicnac]

this is nice for just shy of your budget

First Light Optics - Skywatcher Skyliner 150P Dobsonian

[Parus major]

For instance a skywatcher 150 pl is £186, on a mount = £272, yet the mount if you buy it alone is £164.

Good Luck

But try selling the EQ3-2 plus the £32 polar scope for the £86 difference and you'll struggle.

Mine is getting a bit of a thick coat of dust.

[Bizibilder]

I would second the idea of considering a 150P Dobsonian - all round a far better combination. Maybe sell your current kit to help pay for it - most folk trade their kit to climb the slippery slope to their "ideal".

[Parus major]

Aye, the same tube as mine and it's very satisfying.

[damnut]

Hi There,

All good advice above, as you are in Sheffield it would be worth a visit to Rother Valley Optics as you can have a play with the scopes in the flesh and see what suits you best.

Cheers