10 replies to this topic

[Simon Alderman]

How about something like a “sticky” to list and show all methods of viewing with mounted binoculars along with a short description. If I had more time I’d undertake the project. I was thinking of something of a reference for folks who might not be familiar with all of the options. Fluid heads, monopods, p mounts, body mounts, sky mirrors, Seronik style boom mounts, forehead rests, etc. Maybe there are some I’m not familiar with or that others may not know. Might be fun…

[TOMDEY]

Yeah... if only someone would step forward.    Tom

[Astrojensen]

Do you want a complication or a compilation? The results may vary considerably, depending on your choice... 

 

 

Clear skies!

Thomas, Denmark

[Simon Alderman]

Hahaha! I just noticed that! I guess autocorrect got me again.

[gwlee]

It sounds like it could the subject of a book. It would be a good assignment for Fiske. He has the writing chops and at least one of everything binocular. 

[Erik Bakker]

While Ive only used tripods and monopods, for me it’s tripods all the way if I want the stability of a mounted instrument. Now if I want freedom, there is no substitute for hand held instruments. It just means I have to adapt the size and magnification to the amount of time I want ti observe a given object with some comfort. I often end up with a 7x50 or 10x70 hand held, though in a recliner, the 18x70 is quite enjoyable too, just not as stable.

[Simon Alderman]

It sounds like it could the subject of a book. It would be a good assignment for Fiske. He has the writing chops and at least one of everything binocular. 

Honestly, this is what I was thinking. We all probably have very similar observing habits. Grab a lower powered, wider fov for a quick look to check out conditions. If time and conditions allow then we get out more mag on a mounted instrument. 
I was thinking of a “compilation” (not complication) of different methods of mounting. I’ve been observing for decades but have only fairly recently started using fluid heads and “body mounts”. I’m wondering if there are newcomers to the hobby who might not be aware of all the options and who might be missing out on a very enjoyable way to observe. Just a thought…

[balcon3]

Honestly, this is what I was thinking. We all probably have very similar observing habits. Grab a lower powered, wider fov for a quick look to check out conditions. If time and conditions allow then we get out more mag on a mounted instrument. 
I was thinking of a “compilation” (not complication) of different methods of mounting. I’ve been observing for decades but have only fairly recently started using fluid heads and “body mounts”. I’m wondering if there are newcomers to the hobby who might not be aware of all the options and who might be missing out on a very enjoyable way to observe. Just a thought…

You know what they say: If you want something done right, do it your self  . You could start a thread listing all the mounting methods that you know and their advantages and disadvantages in your experience. Then others could add to the thread with their experiences. It could turn out to be a very useful resource. It would work best if people write from their own experience and not from what they have heard or read about others' experiences. 

[TOMDEY]

"Fluid heads, monopods, p mounts, body mounts, sky mirrors, Seronik style boom mounts, forehead rests, etc."

 

I'd suggest something that incorporates all of the above and more --- It would look like a giant Swiss Army Knife. Details to be designed and tested by --- someone else.    Tom

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[Rich V.]

FWIW, EdZ's compilation of mounting methods for binos has been available in the "Best Of" section at the top of this forum for decades now.  Models of mounts may have changed, the the mounting basics are still the same.  It could still be helpful for many users.

 

https://www.cloudyni...ts/thoughts.pdf

[Simon Alderman]

FWIW, EdZ's compilation of mounting methods for binos has been available in the "Best Of" section at the top of this forum for decades now.  Models of mounts may have changed, the the mounting basics are still the same.  It could still be helpful for many users.

 

https://www.cloudyni...ts/thoughts.pdf

Gee, it only took 18 years for me to see that.

Wonderful write up. The very first picture is of a fork mount on a fluid head! Something I’ve not seen or thought of. Fantastic! 
I agree that adding some of the other mounts that have been introduced since Ed’s time of writing would be a great addition. 
Thanks very much for the link!