Hi Mike,
Had another expression of interest for the barlow on Friday night so you are second in line for it. If the deal falls through I will let you know. Anyway by saying lens edges blackened, I mean the lenses have been removed and have been blackened with black ink. This greatly increases the contrast as most chinese optics do not come with their lens edges darkened. It does make a difference as the contrast is improved and there is no flaring
As for the 32mm Plossl, it is still available if anyone wants it. This has the largest true field of view in a 1.25" format....
Darren