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Rob there is most definately a max weight for the EQ6 mount and Shane has already pointed it out.....the gears and clutches are rated at 25kg max. The problem with this figure is that it does not include the counter weights which must be considered part of the load on the gears and different scope configs exert different loads on the mount which will affect this value. This is where most the confusion stems from as manufacturers should clearly state max carrying capacity minus the counter weight needed . People like Bert (Avandonk) have removed the gears and replaced them with belts. If you check out his website you will see that he has half the iron produced by BHP last century hanging off the counterweight bar and carries enourmous loads on the mount. I imagine your mates 20kg newt would have taken it over its limit (how much counterweight did you have on it?) and although it carried it fine I think you will find the life of the mount will be reduced under these conditions. I think you will be okay with the 12" SCT but much better off with the 10" (more play money left for other bits as well).
Mark
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