[quokka]

After many years of " on again, off again " binocular observing I'm ready to buy my first telescope. ( Not counting a 60mm refractor when I was 11 ).
I'm focusing on 6" & 8" Dobs and I've looked at the Bintel/Andrews websites as well as in a local outlet. I would usually try and buy locally, but there seems to be quite a large price difference that makes the mail-order option very attractive. I guess my question is - am I missing something? The local dobs seem the same as the others but come with less accessories for more money. I like the idea of having local backup but I don't want to pay more than I have to. Thanks.