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Old 06-08-2006, 10:01 AM
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rogerg (Roger)
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Join Date: Feb 2006
Location: Perth, Western Australia
Posts: 4,563
Hmm, the debate of GM-8 vs G-11.

When I was looking for a new portable mount I chose the GM-8 then was recommended strongly to get the G-11. I'm very glad I didn't:

1) my load is a WO Megrez 80, Skywatcher 70x700 and 350D camera. This is all so under-weight for the mount that I only have the standard counterweight about 4 inches from the top of the shaft.

2) I have since seen a G-11 in person and was surpsied at the size difference. I consdier the GM-8 much more portable - tripod, mount, everything. But then I do have tight space limitations in my car (scope + camping gear + girlfriend doesn't leave a lot of room for a big mount!)

3) The GM-8 has great tracking capabilities and is easy to setup, easy to polar align, etc. There's nothing wrong with it's photographic capabilities.

I have used a WO FLT 110 on my GM-8 and was surprised to find it handled the weight (with 350D and counterweight fully extended) no problem. However if I was planning on a larger scope I would have chosen the G-11.

I have also used my GM-8 with the combination of WO Megrez 80, Orion 80ED and 350D piggyback, with naglers in both scopes. Again well under the weight limit and easily handled by the mount.

It all comes down to what you put on it, but if all you're going to put on it is a 80ED, camera and guide scope, the mount is going to laugh at it, really. And you'll enjoy the smaller (more portable) mount.

That's my personal opinnion

Roger.
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