Binoculars query

[rhisaac]

Hi all, I can get a pair of binos at a reasonable price and wondered if anyone knew much about them or their capacity.

Celestron Skymaster 12x60.

I have a great Dob but just wanted to slowly build up my gear.

Thanks!! :)

[erick]

12x60 is a useful magnification and aperture. I have this in an economical pair from AOE. They are always to hand when I am observing. But you'll find that they would be best on a tripod if you really want to study anything. Hand-held is OK for a quick look but you'll need steady hands to stop the view jiggling around and the weight is probably a bit more than is comfortable for extended periods.

This particular make, I have no experience.

What's the "reasonable price"? Ballpark figure?

[rhisaac]

Price would be approx $80 ... what do you think?

[erick]

Yep, that's inexpensive. The AOE pair are still priced at the $109 I paid.

I see USD77 listed for the Celestrons.

Looks like there is a review and thread on Cloudy Nights. have you read it?

http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthreads/showthreaded.php/Cat/1,2,3,4,5,8,9,10/Number/928257/page/0/view/collapsed/sb/5/o/all/fpart/1

[erick]

ps - Do you know how to do a conditional collimation? Many of these cheapies arrive out of collimation - and you need to tweak it from time to time.

[rhisaac]

I looked on IIS but didn't look at the cloudy nights site - thanks !!
I reckon it will need colliminating - I have someone that will help if it's out of whack. Looking forward to it now .... :)

[coldspace]

Also if you are using them hand held I find holding the bino tubes with your hands up front near the end gives you a much steadier hold for when you are panning around.

Matt