Equitorial Mount opinions

I am in the market to buy a equitorial mount for a 120mm refractor. The primary use will be for visual observing. I am looking at the celestron CG-5 and some of the orion equitorial mounts. I really do not want to buy a high end mount but would like to get the most bang for the buck. Ideally I would like to spend between $200.00 to $500.00. If anyone has used one of these mounts or another mount I would like to get your opinions.

Thanks, Ray

Ray,

A 120 refractor would probably be a bit large for the CG-5. My 9.25 SCT was too large for it. The 120 would be even longer--so it may cause problems.

The CG-5 is a usable mount (even under my 9.25), but it is definitely the economy model. If all you are going to do is visual, and your tube weighs no more than about 20 pounds, you may be happy with it. Most people I know with CG-5's replace the legs, and have to clean and regrease the innards. But, they are a good buy.

Alex

You might consider buying a 6" LXD55 SN and sell off the OTA. The mount is supposed to be more akin to the GPDX than the GP, and you'd have the GOTO - if you don't need or want it, don't use it. Should get in under your price point after factoring in the funds from the OTA.