This mount is far more sturdy than the CG5 and LXD75 mounts. It can handle more than the rated 40# of load if the optical tube is compact and the load axis is not too far from the mount saddle. If permanent pier mounted, it would handle even more load. I have an LXD75, and this mount is better built. It would be a 10 for the price, but they went and raised the price since I bought mine, so I must knock it down a peg. At this price level, you will not find any other EQ mount that compares. This is the only economy class EQ mount that can handle serious weight and serious deep sky scopes like a C11 or a classic 10 Newtonian or a long focus 10 f/20 Mak-Cass. It can handle a long focus 6 refractor as well. The next step up is a CGE or G-11 at well over twice the price. Remember, the polarscope is included which is extra on most high end mounts. GoTo capability can be added later with almost no cost penalty. Get at least one extra counterweight, you will need it someday because of the load carrying capacity. I suggest the pier extension if mounting a Newtonian or long tube refractor. My Atlas came with a 13 dovetail, and extra Orion dovetails and tube rings are very economical compared to the luxury mounts. You can easily cut the 13 dovetail to a shorter length if you have the tooling.

From: | Created on: 10/16/2009 1:48:52 PM