Orion AstroView EQ Mount & EQ-3M Motor Drive Kit

Solid! I adapted a mount for my Telestar 114mm x 1000mm scope and it works beautifully.

I needed to retire my old EQ2 mount, which had finally worn out after nearly ten years of monthly star parties and other excursions. I found that while I couldn't get a replacement EQ2, I could upgrade to an EQ3, which is what the Orion AstroView EQ actually is. Those who know the Celestron CG-4 will immediately recognize the Orion AstroView EQ as its design is nearly identical. It is solid and smooth, and the only reason I rated it 4 starts instead of 5 is that the RA clutch sits in a somewhat awkward position, and with the motor attached, manual fine tuning is not possible the way it is on the EQ2, which has a thumb plate to disengage the motor if needed. But this is really just a matter of personal preference and in no way detracts from the effectiveness of this mount. After all, a new mount you have to get used to is a whole lot better than an old mount that was starting to fall apart. I'm entirely satisfied with this mount, and may even look for a backup mount for my ED80.

When it comes to telescope mounts $300 won't buy you much these days. I am happy with the Orion EQ-3M so far. For the money it seems fairly solid. I will try to be cautious with the leg adjustment screws because with all the lower price tripods that is the weak point. All else seems good for now.

I got the mount to replace the antique fork mount that came with my Celestron C8. I used it recently to get excellent photos of comet NEOWISE.

Works great with my 4.5" Reflector that I had for years, got as a replacement for an older tripod that was wood and rotted out after too many years exposed to the elements.Love that I can quickly replaced the adapter so I can change scopes if I get more.