Skywatcher Pronto Mount/Tripod Input Requested

[sojourneyer]

I am interested in purchasing this from FLO but have a number of questions

It says the load capacity is only 3 kgs.  I have two scopes both weighing 6.5 lbs including rings but without finder (RACI), diagonal and eyepiece (7 oz)

The scopes are 80ED f/7 and 90mm Achromat f/5.  Only visual use.

Viewing magnifications will principally be between 25X to160X

I am seeking a mount/tripod with limited vibration, and in this regard the tall riser on the Pronto worries me.

 

 

 

 

[Ricochet]

13 hours ago, sojourneyer said:

I am seeking a mount/tripod with limited vibration, and in this regard the tall riser on the Pronto worries me.

It would not be the “riser” that worries me, but the telescope over pivot arrangement and prior reports on the performance of the mount head. If you’re after a Skywatcher alt/az then the AZ4 and AZ5 are the mounts I would be looking at.

[sojourneyer]

Thanks for that info. I am not limited to the SW brand.

[Stu1smartcookie]

+1 for the AZ4 ... its a straight forward solid mount . The only caveat is that it doesnt have slow motion controls 

 

[John]

15 minutes ago, Stu1smartcookie said:

+1 for the AZ4 ... its a straight forward solid mount . The only caveat is that it doesnt have slow motion controls 

 

+2 for the AZ4. It handled my Vixen ED102SS F/6.5 very well 🙂

I'd like another one if I can find one. Another thing that I should not have sold 🙄

[sojourneyer]

Firstly they are sold by FLO

https://www.firstlightoptics.com/alt-azimuth-astronomy-mounts/skywatcher-az4-alt-az-mount.html

 

Also is the white connector to the mount base plastic or metal?

 

[John]

Metal. It is the same tripod that the HEQ5 uses. 

The mount is compatible with any EQ5/HEQ5 tripod. I've used it on a 2 inch steel CG5 tripod.

 

[sojourneyer]

Thank you

[jjohnson3803]

If you care to wander over to Cloudy Nights, I think oldfracguy is a big fan of the Pronto.  He's posted several pictures and comments.