Posts Made By: Bill Ludeman

I remember getting my first rating - Wow! now I was an Astromarter ! I also remember facing a purchase without knowing any thing at all about the seller, I fabricated some email questions as a test to see if I could feel out the seller. Ultimately I ask for a phone number and the best time to call and talk. I found a friendly amatuer astronomer who spoke my language (scope) at the other end of the line. I believe that getting a phone number is a good tool to use if your not sure of the other person or its a big bucks to you transaction. I have had at least three different transactions with someone who was not rated yet and in each case gave them their first 5 star rating. I wonder if there isn't a need for an introduction to Astromarts rating system and suggested use of all five stars. Also a suggestion or two on what to watch out for, such as fast changes in account use style or the various scams that most of us are familiar with but the newcomer might not be. We all got our first rating at one point -

No Astromarter that I know of would think badly of you if you have a solid track record and someone with few ratings takes a whack at you - no its not fair - I recently had something similar happen - it stung the pride I have in being fair and in being part of this great community. I trust that anyone who checks the ratings given will not just read the last one. When I get a bad vibe I will read back several pages to see what the average is, mostly I trust those with lots of activity. The worst deal I have had on Astromart was with a guy who had almost no activity. Hmmm? I would do business with you in a heartbeat if that helps at all. Bill

You can find the ratings qualification box by cut and paste the email address in the User Profile found on the left side. Play with those listings and you will find several interesting ways to research transactions before you deal. 98% of Astromarters are the best - there are still 2% that will get you. check the warning signs and avoid them Astromart is a great place -

WoodCrafter - chain woodworker supply store -catalog and internet website good selection of sizes and styles - similar to Rockler

My home brew version which I used to loosen a too tight objective ring was clamping a stainless steel office ruler in a Workmate with just enough sticking up to engage the ring. I used a bargain basement rubber strap wrench from a bin in an ACE hardware to turn the tube. Worked beautifully - no chance to scratch anything or cause any damage with my particular assembly. Might work for somebody else. Since only the edge of the thin SS rule is sticking up it is well supported and even with quite a bit of pressure it didn't bend it. That objective lense was tight !! The bit of astigmatism in that scope went away after loosening this.

Many thanks for asking the question and to all that responded - I learned alot by following this thread and will face the next public viewing that our small group has with less trepidation. Except for the green snot..... Particularly appreciate the links for current hand outs!