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Mike, if you can see a noticeable offset I think you can be quite sure that that's your problem. It'd be great if your paper idea works. If it does not and you are willing to spend some money, try obtaining Takahashi 0.965" collet holders and having a machinist attach it to a 1.25" sleeve. I've seen it done and looks great (and presumably works well), but pricey like your custom adapter idea.

Now that I think of it, finding a good 0.965"/1.25" adapter is one of the reasons why I've held off on finding a pair of 18mm SMCs!

Mark

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Second that!
I have a Baader/Celestron unit with 60 degr bent and with the units original EP collets I never manage to get the pictures merged when EP much under 32mm used. Until I modified it with a pair of Takahashi collets! The problem is solved but stil some litle problems with 8mm and under but as Mark says loosen the clamps and a litle fidling will do it

In short.. I believe the slightest off centering or tilt of the EP will become evident when short focus EP are used, 9mm > - and the shorter the F-ratio of the scope the worse it'l be IME.

When using 24.5 mm EP you'll have slop two times.. between the EP itself and the adapter and between the adapter and collet wich isn't favourable!