Following on from my newbie post, where I was going to purchase a 10-inch GSO for my first telescope, I took a look at a 12-inch GSO last week and was suitably impressed. I know this is a bigger instrument compared to the 10-inch, but I have carefully considered the important factors, gathered all the dimensions and investigated how I would transport it from the garage to the backyard (not a problem - a short, level trip). I considered how often I would transport in a car (rarely drive out of town anyway these days). Setting up appears to be no more difficult.
The only extras I will look into is constructing some wheelbarrow-type wheels to attach to the sides. I have seen pictures of them and they look like they will save a bit of lifting.
Also I might consider a telrad device.
Well that's about all for now. I look forward to having a new telescope for Christmas!
You might find a hand trolley is a good way to move it around - this was what I did with my 12" GSO. Easier than putting wheels on it and the scope is more stable when your observing with it.
I highly recommend a Telrad. It can be very hard to know exactly what part of the sky a 12" dob is pointing at without one.
These are excellent scopes and you will have a fantastic time with it.
