Question: Magnification

[Dave Friedman]

Do hand engravers ever use magnifying glasses like used by technicians or others doing delicate close-up work?

Thank you!
Dave

 

[JohnC]

I have seen photos of engravers using them. Their cost is often more than a micro scope. When I need freedom from the scope I use reading glasses. 2x 2.5x work fairly well and cost just a few dollars.

 

[JJ Roberts]

Dave,I just purchased a AM SM-8BZ-144-LED Zoom Stereo Microscope with a boom & Barlow lens,I really like it. J.J.

 

[kbd]

Hello Dave,
I have a Meiji EMS5 microscope and Acrobat stand for sale -- information is in the Classified, for Sale section.
Kathleen

 

[Dave Friedman]

Engraving Friends.....
I am referring to “Magnification Glasses”.....
Like what dentist or surgeon uses.
Do any of you Engravers use such devices?
Your replies and opinions are appreciated.

Dave

 

[kbd]

I understand your question -- I have seen an evolution in many engravers and an increasing number of jewelers are forgoing the magnification lenses (there are many varieties that have been used historically) for the better magnification and optics of microscopes.
Kathleen

 

[monk]

i have used the telescopic style, as well as the galilean type. both types were optically reasonably good. i could never get used to the difference they provided. it was kind of weird getting used to them. i ended up selling them off. ymmd

 

[JJ Roberts]

Dave,A fellow engraver let me try magnifying glass's for a few hours at a gun show and they gave me a headache,better off with a scope. J.J.

 

[Roger Bleile]

I believe that Mike Dubber has used those Zeiss glasses. I had a set of Mike's on loan but could not get used to them.

 

[Fred Bowen]

A few years ago I bought a set of Zeiss "dentist loupes" figuring I could engrave barrels and other large objects instead of trying to fit them under my microscope. I found out pretty fast that I shouldn't have gotten them in 6 power. It was impossible to stay focused because of the narrow depth of field and experienced the same head/neck aches that JJ did. I sold them on eBay at a significant loss. Another valuable lesson learned.

 

[Daniel29]

A few years ago i used magnifying googles from Obrira with a 2,3x magnification. Like with a microscope you have a fixed distance of how far your eyes can be away from your workpiece. It was around 30cm. The depth of field depends on the magnification. As higher the magnification the shallower is the depth of field. So you have to hold your head stiff in the exact position. Moving your head slightly back or forward moves also what you see in focus. It worked well as long as i could work with them. After a while i got severe neck issues.

Now i work with a microscope and i dont have any plans to go back to the googles. It is a much better way to work in an upright position instead of bending your head over the workpiece.
With other words, just because one uses a microscope does not necessarily mean you need or use highest magnification. There is also a big benefit in ergonomical working that comes with the microscope.

 

[SamW]

I have found the diopter based Optivisors to work just fine for me for the past 40 years or so. Not magnification but like reading glasses allows closer focusing.

I thought about the lenses you are asking about but all the negative comments kept me from them. A number 10 Optivisor is my go-to item.

 

[mitch]

At the dentist a couple years ago I tried on the hygienist's magnifiers. It seems they were about 3x, with a decent depth of field. Their main advantage over an Optivisor might be the longer working distance, which was probably 10"-12". I can't remember the mfr, but they were pro grade and she said they were about $800.

 

[JJ Roberts]

I purchased a microscope for detail work on sporting arms for engraving animals & birds, I'll still use my optivisor.Here's a company I purchase my optivisors from eHobbyTools.com there very light on your head and a good choice of lenes's J.J.

 

[edgrabow15]

Engraving Friends.....
I am referring to “Magnification Glasses”.....
Like what dentist or surgeon uses.
Do any of you Engravers use such devices?
Your replies and opinions are appreciated.

Dave

Hi Dave ,l have purchased almost every variety out there from the cheapest to a couple hundred dollars. There is a pair that are well over a thousand but l'm not that nuts. The more expensive ones are good as far as magnificatuon, The problem l personally have with All of them is that the minute you move your head anywhere you need to refocus and stay in that position the whole time. Found that l waste alot of time that way plus it breaks the groove l'm in while working on a piece. With The microscope everything is set. Move your head to do anything put it back on the microscope eyepieces and your back to work instantly. Some it seems feel the glasses are the only way to go and l guess whatever floats your boat. The vast majority use a microscope.good luck in your journey.

 

[sam]

I use a microscope for engraving and the Zeiss loupes for the hobby dentistry I do. I don't have a license or diploma but I've watched a lot of Youtube videos and I have to say I'm pretty darn good at it. I just wish I could get that stuff that makes patient's mouths go numb.

 

[rmgreen]

Sam, I needed this chuckle today!!!!!!!!!! Have a great day.

 

[Chujybear]

I like to use an optivisor.
But a microscope helps me to maintain a more ergonomic position while I work. .

 

[mitch]

I just wish I could get that stuff that makes patient's mouths go numb.

a little Anbesol and you're good to go! Or maybe some oil of clove. Isn't that what Laurence Olivier used on Dustin Hoffman in "Marathon Man"?

 

[John B.]

Hope Miss Aby gets you for that !