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Decisions decisions...
No doubt that aperture rules...however, that does not mean that an 8 inch or 10 inch is a poor choice...I have reflecting scopes ranging from 8 inches to 15 inches and they all get used sometimes...
If transport (car or lifting ability) or storage is an issue avoid the 12 inch solid tube Newtonian reflector...consider a truss style or move down to a 10 inch or 8 inch solid tube.
Another thing to consider as the "additional" accessories that you may be interested in buying...
For example, one of my most used "extras" is an adjustable height chair...I use it every time with every scope...I can not imagine a night under the skies without it. The added comfort helps me be a better observer and in effect "adds inches" to what ever scope I am using with it.
Another often used "extra" is the telrad (zero power finder) it literally puts a "bulls eye" target on the sky and helps me find things fast...
Don't even get me started on premium eyepieces...
And the list goes on.
My counsel would be to apportion your total budget between scope and some accessories...
An 8 inch scope would have been considered "large" for an amatuer not so long ago and it will give you many nights enjoyment...
I found it easy to use and transport and I was not frustrated by the bulk of moving it around...I was able to concetrate on using it.
The 8 inch afforded me the opportunity to get some nice accessories that I use with all of my scopes.
No doubt that over time you will want to "move up" (aperture does rule) but there is no need to jump in the deep end as your first scope. A "right sized" scope and some accessories I believe will put you in good stead for many nights of enjoyment.
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