Astro-Physics StarFire 102

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Astro-Physics StarFire 102
The StarFire 102 is an excellent scope. According to some research done on the AP users group, there were only around 50-75 of these scopes produced in the late 80's early 90's. The optics are fantastic. Only the slightest hint of color on Venus and Vega. Not too shabby for a pre-ED scope.

This scope begs for more magnification. Like other AP scopes, built to last several generations. Only a couple of drawbacks: weight and the fact that the dew shield the screw on type. Other than that it is an excellent performer. If you see one come up for sale, grab it fast.

Overall Rating: 9
Optics:9 Ease of Use:10 Value:10
Weight: 1 (Unreliable Vote)
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Link to this vote: http://www.excelsis.com/1.0/displayvote.php?voteid=120414

Astro-Physics StarFire 102
Astro-Physics scopes are special instruments. There are never enough to go around, and the latest designs are available after a long wait, or at a premium cost. While the older designs are no longer state-of-the-art, they still perform at a very high level. And, they can be had for a lot less money. The 102 was part of the first production run using the name 'StarFire'. Take that for whatever historical value you think it's worth. For an objective without exotic glass, color correction holds it's own against modern designs. My scope shipped in was a 1989 and had the 2.7" focuser. The scope's age shows up in design features. It's an f/8 with a fixed dewshield, which makes it a long scope. The focuser & lens cell are beautifully crafted and heavy. Being a little long and a little heavy, the scope needs a good mount (Vixen GP or better). These things don't keep the 102 from being an excelent and unique telescope. If I didn't come across a 130EDFS, at an unbeatable price, I would have kept the 102 for a long time.

Overall Rating: 9
Optics:9 Ease of Use:9 Value:9
Weight: 1 (Unreliable Vote)
Date:
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Link to this vote: http://www.excelsis.com/1.0/displayvote.php?voteid=328451

Astro-Physics StarFire 102
After posting my oraignil comment, I was taken to a page that had the VOTE button However, once again, upon clicking it just kept spinning, and never gave me any sort of confirmation Anyway, my vote is for #20

Overall Rating: 9
Optics:8 Mount:0 Ease of Use:5 Value:4
Weight: 1 (Unreliable Vote)
Date:
By:
Link to this vote: http://www.excelsis.com/1.0/displayvote.php?voteid=600187

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