Opinions Wanted: Ultima 30mm or 35mm?

Ratings on the 30mm and 35mm Ultimas are very similar. Is one preferable over the other for FOV and performance - and do I gain much by moving up to the 35mm given its added size and weight?

I primarily use an 8" f/10 SCT and a 6" f/5 Newt (often barlowed for f/10) for my grab and go. My eyepiece set also includes the discontinued 24mm Ultima.

Thanks for any advice you can provide.

The 35mm is awesome but getting used to the larger eye relief and being able to hold the correct head position takes some practice. Its much easier to do when you are sitting down.
Will you gain much? IMO - Yes... and No. The gain in field is probably not worth the money difference. The 30mm is also a great eyepiece. But then again, I used the 35mm Ultima, with my Ultima 8 for several years and just loved it. It gives a big, contrasty field of view.
You could buy a used one on astromart and try it for a while. IF you don't like it, sell it again. It wouldn't cost alot to find out.

Rob

Another eyepiece to consider is the new 24mm (or so) Antares 70degree eyepiece that goes for about $75.

jon

Peter, having owned and used both on a number of instruments, I did find 2-3 scopes in which the 35mm did not come to focus...just my personal problem and FYI to you. Joseph Wong

Peter, having owned and used both on a number of instruments, I did find a 2-3 scopes in which the 35mm did not come to focus...just my personal problem and FYI to you. Otherwise these are very high quality and satisying Plossl eps. Joseph Wong

Peter, since you have the 24mm (envy of the world :-) the 35mm makes more sense. You might look up my long posts from a few weeks ago, and the respective threads. This seems to be a FAQ!

http://www.astromart.com/messages.asp?message_id=116817

http://www.astromart.com/messages.asp?message_id=103983

Also read the following regarding "Ultima 30mm tight fit" (which I can confirm with my _two_ independently obtained samples -- solution: replace the chrome barrel).

http://www.astromart.com/messages.asp?message_id=109219

The 35mm is often cheaper on AM than the 30mm.

Clear skies, -- William