Ok so I'm sick of using a loupe at my desk. Anyone ever use one of those lighted desktop magnifiers? Did a search and it seems there are no posts on this subject. So I was looking for input on what everyone else uses, Thanks.
Right now I still use a loupe with my desk lamp very close by. My eyes are going bad and I seem to need more light than I used to so I may try one of those desktop magnifiers. I'd really like one that has a light built into it.
I found a site that has some, I dont know if this is exactly what you're looking for but I may buy one. http://handsfreemagnifiers.com/default.aspx
Im going to sit back and read the posts on this one. I want one of those soooo bad...just need an understaznding what features to look for. Im not a dealer, so i wouldn't use it day in, day out, but think it would be handy just the same, Im trying to grade every single one of my coins, and write my results on the 2 x 2. (In pencil mind you)
I use one regularly and have it post mounted (vs clamp on) on my desk. On the plus side it is convienent and provides great lightning. Keep in mind the light is flourscent, so it's a different color light than what you might me used to. I use a small platform to put items on so I don't have to reposition the light and there is space to reach under the light/magnifer lense to move items. Saves on trying to reposition the thing every time I look at more than one item and allows me to have both hands free. Yes, i'd buy another, it's worth it to me.
At the moment, I am using 2X, 3X, 5X, 7X, 10X and 30X. Depending on the coin will depend on the loupe I use. I got these all for $5 total, which is an amazing deal and defiantly worth it. I use these to look for errors, taking pictures, or just for using them
I purchased this one, which is an 8x for about $10... http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&item=260378969929 There was a similar one that was a 10x for about the same price about a month ago. I wish I would've purchased that one. But it will arrive on Wed, so I'll let you know how it works out. -LTB
I use one like this: http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_612263_612263 Really helps a lot!
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=65779 I use it for coins and when I need to solder something. I also have this one that isn't as good. http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=319
hey freaky..that second one there looks like one you would use for tying fishing flies. On another note, I wouldnt really want to use those metal clips on a coin.
I THINK the OP is talking about one of those lighted round magnifying lenses you clamp to your table (or it has a base and you look through the magnifying part). Some of the links above are truly "Coin Geeky"!!!! My Goodness. I've been wanting one for ages. It's on my Christmas list every year, but it seems that my loved ones want to ensure that I have a 5 year advance supply of after shave and socks. Also, don't expect anything more than 2x or 3x. That is the OPTIMUM magnification to get an overall look of your coin. The "God" GDMSP has posted as much, several times. If you want more than 2x or 3x then, yes, look at the GEEKY solution links listed in earlier posts. BTW last Christmas, Menards had one of these. Yesterday, I went there looking for some bolts for a bed frame and I managed to go over to the light section. Apparently they don't carry them anymore. However, a couple of months ago, I saw one at Staples. RUN --> Don't walk!
Yes I was looking for a desktop one not a loupe. And I would think at least 8x magnification. My loupe is 10x and isnt that what the TPG's use? Thanks to all who have responded, I'll check out the links, but no Menards up north here.
andrew i have one of those,just bought it actually. i looked at the coin store for a loop but it was too uncomfortable to use so i went to staples and bought a swing arm lamp with a mag glass. i do not have any coins yet but i will start my nickel collection soon.i will let you know how it works out for me. ican see the fine lines on my fingertips easily PD13
Thinking back I believe I bought the one I have at Sears. I checked their site, and mine is a 3x not a 5x as I noted earlier.