ATM question: Quikrete quik-tube vs sonotube
I found that letting super-glue soak into the cut edges of Sonotube material
works wonders for stiffening and "protecting" them from bangs. The finished
product doesn't accept paint really well however... use a good sealer/primer
coat on it first. I ended up having tubes custom made for my 8" due to some
design constraints. I shot for 3/8" wall thickness which I believe is ideal
for an 8 - 10" scope (maybe even 12" range... though my 12.5" f/4.8 has 1/4"
walls). I found the 1/8" too flimsy also and the 1/4" unnecessarily thick
(therefore heavy).
Hope this helps
Keith Wichman
The Criterion Dynascope Group!
http://home.wmis.net/~rv6
Quote:
> Jim,
> We use Sonotube for telescopes and Quickcrete tubes from Home Depot for
> bunny tubes (our rabbit loves tunnels - so does our cat).
> As others have mentioned, the Quikcrete tubes vary in diameter quite a bit.
> They are also quite a bit flimsier than real Sonotube. I have also found
> that the wax layer is much easier to get out of the inside of Sonotube than
> some of the econo-tube variety.
> Personally, I would stick with Sonotube. Whatever you use, a good pair of
> sturdy end rings will add greatly to the stiffness of the tube and protect
> the ends.
> Clear skies, Alan
> >I went to Home Depot to get a sonotube and they had "Quikcrete" brand
> >Quik-Tube instead. Does anyone know if this is better, the same, or
> >worse than Sonotube for making telescope tubes.
