Thread: Magnification recommendations?

So...I've discovered my 60x loupe didn't like the washing machine. And it liked the dryer even less.

I've got my 30x loupe, so I can still function. But I'd really like another 60-100x magnifier. Preferably something that will last a little longer than the throw away loupes found on amazon.

Anyone got any suggestions?

Originally Posted by Marshal

So...I've discovered my 60x loupe didn't like the washing machine. And it liked the dryer even less.

I've got my 30x loupe, so I can still function. But I'd really like another 60-100x magnifier. Preferably something that will last a little longer than the throw away loupes found on amazon.

Anyone got any suggestions?

How much are you willing to spend? Are you only considering loupes or are USB or optical microscopes an option?

The problem with a lot of USB scopes is that the have high magnification but not enough resolution. Contact member PCM, please, and ask him what his microscope is. I suggest that because he has posted a lot of very good edge photos with sufficient magnification and resolution and I have been curious to know what he is using but have been too lazy to ask.

Well, a good lasting optic is something I would be willing to squirrel away for if I have to. It's not something I'm looking to have by next week, but long term buying a $5-$10 loupe every 3-6 months is going to get old quick.

I went ahead and ordered a Carson pocket scope like I often see recommended, that at least looks a little sturdier than most of the loupes.

But that still seems like a temporary thing. I've often wondered the same, I'll probably check with him and see what he's using. I wasn't necessarily thinking about being able to take photos and show the world how bad my honing is, but if I came across a problem and needed to reach out to someone more experienced for a solution it could come in handy.

B&L make very good jewellers loupes but I bet they're not washing machine proof. I use an 10x.

If you want quality check out Deutsche Optik. Most of their stuff is German.

If you buy quality 30X is all you will ever need and honestly 10x is plenty.

I have a really nice Zeiss stereomicroscope, but despite that great German engineering, I'm pretty sure that it is not washing machine or dryer proof either.

That would be another benefit to having a microscope...much less likely to get left in a pocket than a loupe.

Originally Posted by Marshal

That would be another benefit to having a microscope...much less likely to get left in a pocket than a loupe.

Well, yes, I never thought of it that way but I never have left my scope in my pocket.

I suppose one solution for you would be to STOP putting your loupe in your pocket. How did you get into that habit? If it is a problem, and if you buy another loupe, you could always tie a long string to it and attach it to something near where you hone.

Small, fits in the pocket. Probably moving from the honing station to shave test and forgot the little fella was in there. It wasn't exactly a big loss. The loupe was on it's last leg anyway, the trip through the wash just sped it up a little bit. Still, won't be makin that mistake twice.

Depends on how you use it, USB is a pain in the butt to stop and take a look.

When honing, I don’t need a lot of resolution or a perfect image, just a quick look at an issue or progress.

I use the Carson 200 mico-max, 60-100 and a 60X lighted loupe, USB when taking photos, rarely. They are cheap enough, I bought several of each.