GS-880 or Bintel BT252 10" DOB's

[Mystikal]

I have made a decision. Im getting a 10" DOB.

GS880 -
First grade 10" (250mm x 1250mm) Dobsonian reflectors with truly outstanding 1/12 surface wave BK7 mirrors and 2" focusers with 2" to 1.25" adaptors.

Limited version features a straight-through 8 x 50 finderscope and a 2" rack and pinion focuser with a 2" to 1.25" adaptor.

Deluxe version features a 8 x 50 correct image right angle finderscope and a 2" Crayford style focuser with a 2" to 1.25"adaptor and a primary mirror fan.

Both versions now include FOUR GSO Plossl eyepieces.

or the Bintel 252
This BINTEL telescope has an expertly figured and polished parabolic primary mirror made from BK-7 glass. It's guaranteed to be diffraction-limited, meeting the theoretical limits of resolution for its size. The mirror is mounted in an aluminium cell that allows rapid equilibrium of the mirror to the outdoor temperature. A cooling fan is included to achieve faster cooldown.

The secondary mirror is held in a fully adjustable four-vane spider.

BINTEL Premium Dobsonians are equipped with a smooth 2" Crayford focuser without backlash.

Friction Control makes the Dobsonian easier to balance and easier to use. The spring system stops heavy eyepieces from overbalancing the tube.

Standard Accessories include: 26mm (2") Fully Multi Coated Eyepiece, 15mm and 9mm Plossl Eyepieces, Moon filter, 8x50 Finderscope, Base carry handle and Snap-on dust cap.

Direct quotes from their respective websites.

Costs 60 bucks from Andrews to post to Melbourne, 30 bucks more than getting it from Bintel, but I have to drive to bintel. I get 2 more eyepieces and the crayford focuser, primary mirror fan and right angle finderscope!
Im going with the GSO!!!!!!!!! I've convinced myself!!!

Getting it and off to my parents farm (absolutely DARKEST skies I've ever seen and a field of view so wide, actually 360 degree field of view, and in some sections you get the horizon (in others mountains block the view) but wow I can't wait!!!

,

[janoskiss]

They are essentially the same scope, except the Bintel ones get in-shop treatment before sale.

If you have decided on a 10" GSO, it is worth buying from Bintel, especially if this is your first (real) scope. The local support and QC is well worth the few extra bucks. They would probably match price for you or throw in some bonus accessories anyway.

[rmcpb]

Steves advice is rock solid. If this is your first scope then the extra backup from Bintel is worth the little extra as support is just a phone call away. After some experience its a toss up whether you use Andrews or Bintel or any of the other shops, its a case of shopping around.

Good luck with your choice, its a great scope you are choosing.

[Mystikal]

Ill look into Bintel.
Thanks for the sound advice guys. Cheers

[janoskiss]

Mystikal, I did not realise at first that it was you starting this thread.

You seem to be all over the place with this scope purchase. You have started several threads asking about scopes from SCTs, Maks, Dobs of various sizes, refractors, Goto mount, EQ mount no goto, Dob mount... You have just about gone through the lot.

You also mentioned you are moving to the States and want to take the scope with you. 10" Dob??? You cannot be serious.

If you are really serious about buying a scope, go along to an observing night (or 2 or 3) at a local club and get some hands on experience with different scopes.

[Mystikal]

NO NO!!
My father is going there on business and Im going to get him to get me a CG-5 goto mount. I was going to go with him, but am now unable to.

I am all over the place, but have now settled. I spoke to Graham at Bintel. Im getting a great deal on a 10" DOB.

Finally, and can watch the sky in peace.

WSIP.