Cheshire or laser?

[nickb2513]

I have a laser collimator but it doesn't seem to sit quite right in my viewfinder. it moves slightly so the dot goes off my centre spot. I then adjust both mirrors and centre it again. Then if I take the collimator out and put it back in again it moves again!

I've never used a Cheshire, I just wondered what peoples thoughts were and which one you prefer and why. 

[Moonshane]

definitely cheshire for me. I find it asier to match the view through the cheshire with understanding how it all works. plus to me at least it replicates the function of the scope in use.

[nickb2513]

I may have to purchase a Cheshire, I was just worried it would be a waste of money as I have the laser already

[Moonshane]

If you have a Barlow you could use the Cheshire for the secondary and the laser in the Barlow for the primary

[nickb2513]

Ah ok, I do have a Barlow! Thank you for the advice!

When I got my laser I had to put a centre spot on my mirror because celestron seem to think it's not important! Cleaned it in the process too so it worked out ok!

[Moonshane]

http://stargazerslounge.com/topic/46941-barlowed-laser-collimation-method/

[Dave In Vermont]

In answer to your query, Nick, I use both a laser and a Cheshire-sighting tube. I'm a happy camper when they both agree across-the-board. I'm one of those odd people who actually enjoys collimating a scope.

Not knowing what you have for a collimation-guide, I thought I'd give you a link to one of the best I've encountered:

http://www.astro-baby.com/collimation/astro%20babys%20collimation%20guide.htm

"Astro-Baby" is a member here.

Clear Skies,

Dave

[nickb2513]

Thank you for that Dave!!  I just followed some tutorials on youtube on how to collimate but astro-Babys guide looks pretty good!!

I think I'll be definitely investing in a cheshire collimator this coming pay day!

When its a cloudy night I do enjoy working on my telescope, either modding or collimating.  Thank you for all the replies, really appreciated

[Frenchgow]

Hi nick,i use a cheshire and find it does the job excellently,astro baby's tutorial demistifies the procedure and i too enjoy the process,

i bought the cheshire from flo and find it fits my crayford perfectly,good luck

Regards Gow