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I will assume this is a local scope. Firstly, make sure you get a chance to inspect the scope. Do not rely on pictures!!
I cannot help with the mount as I am pretty much a dob user, but with the scope the main things to look for are
- Clean and tidy mirrors (don't forget to check the secondary!! you can do tha by looking in the focuser) a little dust is OK as it hardly affects the image but scratches, thick dirt, missing parts of the coatings, splotches etc are a big no no
- Does the focuser move OK, is there an adapter for both 1.25 and 2 inch eyepieces?
- What eyepieces come with it and are they in good condition. You can hold up an EP to the light (not the sun!!) and check it for cleanliness or aberrations such as scratches or coatings coming away
- Does it have a finder and is it clean and tidy?
- Are there caps for the scope, focuser, eyepieces and finder?
- Any rust or corrosion, especially at the bottom of the tube. This is where moisture runs and collects and can damage collimation screws and springs.
Thats all I can think of for the moment. Price is important. Others may disagree but generally I have found that used gear goes for about 50% of new price unless it is in really pristine condition or something fairly rare.
Malcolm
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