Hello Royjohn, You make a great point regarding the 5x eyepieces, I hadn’t considered that. Barlow lenses seem hard to come by on some of old microscopes and switching the eyepieces would solve that, perfect! I’m want to get out to the microscope shop in the next week or so, it’s a bit of drive. I’m hoping the online classified ads might produce some local options as well. I’d prefer to try it out before buying it. The boom stand is still up for consideration, fabricating one is the smart move. It would allow me to spend more on the microscope as well. It’s finding the time. I’d prefer to spend that time creating and increasing my skill level. It can be quite the balancing act when your getting established. I’ll make a decision once I have purchased the microscope. I actually have a 144 led ring light. I use it on the spindle of my small milling machine. I can use it as a starting point anyway. Winter is just about here and I’ll have more time to get things done.
Thanks again, it’s really great having a two sided conversation about this stuff. The freinds I have love to wear jewelry but that’s about where their interest level starts and stops.
I’m looking forward to finishing up a few projects so I can start sharing more on here. I’d planned on contributing a bit before I started asking questions!
Jeff