I'm doing it myself!

[eddie3000]

As some of you might have read, my intention was to make a case for my new scope. I didn't like the readily available ones (specially the price). After thinking a little and reading a bit here and there, and trying to keep prices as low as possible, here are some photos of how it is going on. It isn't finished yet (I'm still waiting for the varnish to dry).

http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/5859/dsc6912.jpg

http://img704.imageshack.us/img704/9367/dsc6913w.jpg

http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/415/dsc6916u.jpg

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/5471/dsc6918u.jpg

http://img38.imageshack.us/img38/3931/dsc6921.jpg

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/4171/dsc6936j.jpg

Sorry about the mess. I've never been a tidy person.

[kris h]

Lookin good eddie some prices for scope cases are crazy i am thinking about buying one but seeing your handy work that might be the way to go

[Moonshane]

I agree with Chris - top job! I have been planning one of these for ages - must make the effort.

[sbooder]

Hi Eddie,

looking good. What scope is it for?

[yesyes]

Looks great. Now I feel like leaving my desk at work and build one of those too.. ;-)

Interesting idea to build the whole box first and then cut the lid off.. ;-))

[simon955]

Good idea to make your own case, I cant believe the prices that 'proper' cases are. You have added another DIY job to my list.

[angusb1]

Good job Eddie. I like the supports that the scope will sit on. I stumbled across the DIY scope chest thread a few weeks ago and thought DIY was definately the way to go.

[beamish]

Well impressed- inspirational too

[eddie3000]

FINISHED! Voilá:

http://img85.imageshack.us/img85/2782/dsc6950.jpg

http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/9245/dsc6951r.jpg

http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/2461/dsc6952.jpg

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/7439/dsc6953.jpg

It's unique in its design, I doubt anybody will find one like this one. There's enough room for accessories inside. It does a fine job. The total cost is about 100euros for the bits and pieces, plus my time. I hope it lasts a long time:headbang:

[brantuk]

Nice one - looks great - I'd put big soft wheels one one end of that and a good strong handle on the other

[kris h]

The finished result looks AWESOME eddie

[eddie3000]

The wheels and handle is a great idea. I will probably get some when I find some I like. They'd have to be soft ones though.

The box weighs between 9 and 10 kilos empty, so it does get to well over 20 when packed with stuff.

[sbooder]

First rate job Eddie. I am inspired to build a case myself. Thanks for sharing.

[eddie3000]

Looks great. Now I feel like leaving my desk at work and build one of those too.. ;-)

Interesting idea to build the whole box first and then cut the lid off.. ;-))

I saw others do this and the reason is to get a perfect fit between the lid and bottom. If built separately, there is a fair risk of a millimeter or two error. I used an H shape aluminium strip to ensure a tight join.

I used the red straps because I thought it may be a good idea. BTW, that stuff is supposed to stand 1500kg before breaking.

The metal corners I already had lying around, don't know for how long, years maybe. The locking thingies are recycled from another box I had which I no longer use.

The inside is covered with fabric from my father in law, he sells it and gives me old samples when no longer in production. It is nicely cushioned with poliurethane foam, which I also had lying aroung in the garage since God knows when!

It provides a tight fit, maybe a bit too tight. I will let it sit for some time, as I assume that the foam will eventually give a bit.

The scope is a Skywatcher MN190. I recieved it this week, and I've been unlucky. Cloudy and rainy most of the time, only used one night since Monday. Just my luck!