[MILD (Mick)]

I honestly apologise for yet another which scope for me thread. I did post a similar thread around a year ago but then get caught up with a few other things so I am back again!

I understand that dobs are the accepted choice for a first scope however with a budget of $500 I'm not exactly sure what would provide the best combination for a beginner.

I have looked on Bintel and taken a look at the 6" dob for around $330 and the 8" for close to $500. It seems the 8" does have better accesories. With $500 to spend would I be better off buying the 6" and picking up a few other things or given that the $170 wouldn't get me far am I better with the 8", learning my way around and then upgrading eye pieces, filters etc as appropriate later down the track?

To be honest, I'm primarily interested in looking at the moon and showing my sons (6 and 8) more than DSOs etc. Looking at other planets and general star gazing would be handy for a little later on but I have no goals towards astrophotography or anything like that.

Is there a better option than what I have described above for what I am hoping to do? I know $500 is a very small budget so I am well aware sacrifices and compromises will need to be made!

Thank you all in advance.