There are so many that's for sure, I never realised.
Atleast I get a good picture now, especially for future. I agree and had started thinking I should just get one he would get a lot of use of. I was worried to get one too cheap but atleast now realising just how dear they get I feel better deciding to just get one if it is a better quality and more so better value for money. Atleast I have the information and it may be better I tell him yet. This leg work will no doubt help him and my notes plus all of what you guys have helped with.
Although he obviously is fine with focal lengths and how it all works he then has an interest again not only with astronomy but all the many theories and I've still even heard him wonder about the FOV as you guys call it, he even said something fancier to my ears something like apparant field of view. I know that affects your outcome on top of just picking a mm size. So he would no doubt be confused himself.
In the end, I atleast know from knowing him I don't need an unltra wide, Barlow may interest him but to begin with a "work horse" suggestion that many have offered would most likely suit him and be around 500, maybe cheaper. I get a feeling Pentax and TeleVues seem good brands to go for. As I said what I read of Naglers I realised myself they were like the beesknees and top end and I felt it was too hard to choose one of them myself. I don't think James would get one of them at this stage anyway, but I know in the future after more use he would be keen.
As I say though I certainly appreciate all the help. I was really confused before so makes no difference
but I atleast now have confirmation and a bigger picture view. We normally try to invest in any purchase, hobby or just houshold that won't need updating, we've always thought a little extra can be worth it especially while we don't have kids as it changes your priorities when they come along. With EP's though a little bit extra can be a lot though, but it is good to know that now. An informed desicion atleast despite the difficulties.