AZ-EQ5- standard tripod or short tripod/pier mount?

[the_chemist]

Hi all, I am getting a Skywatcher AZ-EQ5 mount, and I was going to buy one new with the short tripod/pier, the standard model sold in the US. Then I found a potentially nice used one- however this one is the European model with a standard tripod.  Anyone have any thoughts on pros/cons for the 2 mounts? I will be doing mainly visual with and SCT or refractor. I've heard either mount is a little short without the pier extension. I'm 6'2", so I would probably think about getting one of these either way.

thanks,

Eric

Edited January 10, 2020 by the_chemist
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[johninderby]

The pier type tripod was discontuned a while ago in the UK and EU with no reason given. However have read complaints about the pier type tripod lacking stability as the legs just aren’t spread very wide. 

I used to have one of the Az-EQ5 mounts and fitted an EQ6 tripod with the 2” legs and the EQ6 extenstion using a Geoptik adapter. Was much more stable. Celestron used to do an EQ5 tripod with 2” legs if you can find one.

Of coirse a Berkebach wooden tripod is a better choice but more expensive.

Edited January 10, 2020 by johninderby

[the_chemist]

thanks, I'm going to get the one with the standard tripod.

 

Eric