Saxon/Orion

[Zuts]

Hi,

Does anyone know if there is a difference between the Orion 80 ED and the Skywatcher 80 ED. On the bintel site the scopes look exactly the same (except for the colour) but the skywatcher is 100 dollars cheaper and comes with some accessories.

The optics both appear to be made from the same glass, they look the same, have the same F ratio so why would i buy the orion as opposed to the skywatcher?

Thanks

[casstony]

They are supposed to be the same, though there is certainly some variation in quality control. Since you're in Sydney, I suggest you check whichever unit you plan to buy at the shop before payment - that way you can at least eliminate obvious things like sloppy/bent/rough/squealing focuser, sprinkling of metal paticles on the lens, etc. The chinese gear is good value but a bit of quick QC at the shop is a good idea if you have the opportunity.

[ballaratdragons]

Both made in the same factory, just painted different colours.
They come out under several brand names.

[Zuts]

Thanks all,

Then i may get the cheaper one, as a bonus i like blue. Very good advice about trying out all the bits and pieces,; but frightening news to think of 'metal bits' on the objective.

[ballaratdragons]

Are you getting the ED80 for visual, or Astrophotography?

The ED80's aren't popular for visual, but absolute Magic for Astrophotography!!!

[Zuts]

Hi Ken,

Its intended for astrophotography; but i want a quick grab and go scope as well. One that i can rush out and look at something if the mood takes me. So I am hoping that it will be reasonable for the moon, planets and brighter dso's like m42, omega centauri, double stars and some open clusters like the jewel box.

For Astrophotography i will piggyback it on my C11.

[casstony]

A few bits of dust/metal filings isn't a problem, but I returned a Saxon ed80 once that had a lot of debris inside the ota. It also had a bent focuser. Sometimes I think they pay the guys at the factory peanuts? :whistle: