Suggestions for a worry free, sub 400.00 scope?Posted By Mark Mullen |
Bill,
Check out Astromart's adds first. The best bargains will probably be found there - if you're careful and know what you're looking for.
If you feel more comfortable buying new, Orion sells quality (mass-produced) products and absolutely stands behind them. Their website is www.telescope.com.
Also, give this guy a look: http://www.speednetllc.com/dbaastronomyproducts/Default.htm
He carries both Discovery and Hardin telescopes and occasionally has his own specials (I got my DSH-12 with free shipping a month or so ago).
Most or all of the scopes you can buy from these sites will be complete packages that are useable right out of the box (some assembly required but you won't have to fiddle with) and will be serviced if they arrive damaged (won't have to worry about). Most of the comments I've read and heard tend toward a dobsoinian as the simplest telescope to use but you may want something different.
You didn't mention it as a possibility but I'll repeat the refrain anyway: DO NOT BUY A DEPARTMENT STORE TELESCOPE! That includes Walmart, Sears, Toys R Us, etc and the family of QVC/HSN television stations.
Hope that helps.
Clear skies and have fun.
Mark
Check out Astromart's adds first. The best bargains will probably be found there - if you're careful and know what you're looking for.
If you feel more comfortable buying new, Orion sells quality (mass-produced) products and absolutely stands behind them. Their website is www.telescope.com.
Also, give this guy a look: http://www.speednetllc.com/dbaastronomyproducts/Default.htm
He carries both Discovery and Hardin telescopes and occasionally has his own specials (I got my DSH-12 with free shipping a month or so ago).
Most or all of the scopes you can buy from these sites will be complete packages that are useable right out of the box (some assembly required but you won't have to fiddle with) and will be serviced if they arrive damaged (won't have to worry about). Most of the comments I've read and heard tend toward a dobsoinian as the simplest telescope to use but you may want something different.
You didn't mention it as a possibility but I'll repeat the refrain anyway: DO NOT BUY A DEPARTMENT STORE TELESCOPE! That includes Walmart, Sears, Toys R Us, etc and the family of QVC/HSN television stations.
Hope that helps.
Clear skies and have fun.
Mark
