Hello all. My name is Don Hansen and I'm new to the forum and engraving. I've just completed my third practice plate and enjoying the new learning experience. I feel I'm making progress, but its been a little like "engraving with Ray Charles". I'm having trouble seeing as well as I'd like to be able to. I'm currently using the #5 optivisor I use for checkering gun stocks. Coupled with my no-line old-guy glasses It's hard to stay focused on the work. I can see much better if I remove my glasses and use the optivisor, but have to place my nose about two inches from the work. Not good for the back and neck! This brings me to my question. I'm thinking I may be a candidate for a microscope but don't know what one needs for engraving. I've searched the archives and have found some information, but not the specifics I need, such as distance needed between objective and work, magnification, specific brands and models (the tips section did have an article about this, but would like another opinion), and if one can buy just the head and make a stand. I have a fairly complete machine shop so should be able to make a usable stand. If I've left any thing out that is pertinent, please let me know. While I'm not crazy about spending more money I am serious about learning how to do this and I'd prefer to spend the money one time and get it right. I know buying more stuff won't make me an engraver, but it would at least be nice to be able to see that I'm not doing a very good job! Thanks in advance for your patience and help. I know I'll need a lot more before this is over.... Thanks again, Don.