14 replies to this topic

[Moravianus]

I received my AP 130 GT with the long version case which stores also the tube covers for transport when disassembled. I am looking for ideally hard case for the telescope with rings and plate attached.

I am wondering what others use.

Search brought these suggestions:

 

https://www.stellarv...0mm-refractors/

 

Harmony Case (with added foam)

 

Godox CB-06

 

[mehdymo]

Consider an SKB ATA Golf case as well. It looks excellent if you compare its built and price to to other cases.

[Oyaji]

The Stellarvue is a semi-hard case.  I have one for a Stellarvue 80 mm refractor and it is excellent.  I think the one you are looking at would be a good choice if the scope fits (interior dimensions 36" X 8" X 8").

 

Another semi-hard case with a 38 x 7.5 x 8 interior is https://www.bhphotov...cs?sts=pi&pim=Y  I have my eye on a longer one for a 40" refractor I have on order.  

Edited by Oyaji, 24 January 2021 - 02:40 AM.

[Agatha]

I have both a Stellarvue and  a Lightware case.  The Stellarvue is much more rigid than the Lightware.  But I like them both especially for the ability to flip the lids open...nice design.  

[NC Startrekker]

Get the Stellarvue C130L. You won’t be disappointed. 

[Scott in NC]

Get the Stellarvue C130L. You won’t be disappointed. 

That's what I bought for my TEC 140, and if I still had an AP 130, I’d buy another one for it too.

[Moravianus]

Listening...

I am inclined to the Harmony case, same price like the Stellarvue and ultimate protection.

[Oyaji]

I have both a Stellarvue and  a Lightware case.  The Stellarvue is much more rigid than the Lightware.  But I like them both especially for the ability to flip the lids open...nice design.  

I wonder if it's possible to stiffen the Lightware case somehow.

 

But more importantly, perhaps--how does the padding compare with the Stellarvue?  

 

OP--sorry if I'm hijacking this thread, but I gots to know!  

[astrophile]

Listening...

I am inclined to the Harmony case, same price like the Stellarvue and ultimate protection.

As long as you don't mind the weight.  I see they fail to specify the Harmony's weight on Amazon, but one of the question-answerers notes it's "heavy as hell."  That parallels my experience of most ATA-type scope cases, vs. the Stellarvues.

[ichdien]

I use a Portabrace case with wheels for my AP 155edfs.  Very sturdy but much lighter than a full-on hard case.  And did I mention it comes with wheels?

 

https://www.bhphotov...22/N/4232859068

[andysea]

I use the Stellarvue for the AP 130gtx and I really like it. It is big enough to also store the reducer and custom adapter for my camera. I bought it because of its light weight and very generous padding.

Edited by andysea, 25 January 2021 - 07:47 PM.

[photoracer18]

The SV case carries my SVA-130EDT with rings, Losmandy plate, carry handle, and several parts around the focuser including the FR, 2" diagonal, and one 63mm adapter.

[Moravianus]

I use the Stellarvue for the AP 130gtx and I really like it. It is big enough to also store the reducer and custom adapter for my camera. I bought it because of its light weight and very generous padding.

Would the 2" diagonal fit in instead of the reducer/adapter ?

[Tyson M]

Get the Stellarvue C130L. You won’t be disappointed. 

One of my favorite cases to date. Expensive but worth it. 

 

And the 2" diagonal will fit inside, lots of room inside (with a divider) as the GTX is small.  The case fits a TOA130 with clamshell and dovetail like a glove. 

[Moravianus]

At the end I got SKB 3I-3016-10BE empty case for $213 delivered ordered from Case Club.

Incidentally, the outside dimension are exactly the airline check-in luggage limit. Not that I would do this for the AP, if at all, I would take the lens to the cabin. I purchased a $30 2x4ft Kayzen foam and will do a custom interior like here:

https://www.cloudyni...telescope-case/

 

The idea is to have the kit packed and on the whim, to put it in the back of the (future) Ford Bronco, and out for the night...

Edited by Moravianus, 25 February 2021 - 05:22 AM.