Headband Magnifier or Loupe ...

[Martyd3]

I am using a crappy headband magnifier that is a POS. I need to replace it. Should I learn to use a loupe or are there better headband magniifers out there? Who makes a good one?

Thanks.

Marty

[hiker01]

This is what I use and I love it!

LED Lighted Dual Lens Magnifying Glass

Check it out!

[nakortheblue]

This is what I use and I love it!

LED Lighted Dual Lens Magnifying Glass

Check it out!

Now, you've made me want to go get this...

[Bike Mike]

5x loupe for assembly when I need it, 10x loupe for inspection.

[lanikai]

I had a jewelers visor that engravers use..I use a 10x now.. you need to learn how to keep both eye's open will focusing on the eye your using.. it keeps from straining .. fyi

[Slartibartfast]

I use a 5x loupe for assembly and a 7.5x for luming.

Took a bit of getting used to at first, but now I couldn't do without them.

I tried a magnifier, but there is no comparison. Loupe every time.

[Martyd3]

I use a 5x loupe for assembly and a 7.5x for luming.

Took a bit of getting used to at first, but now I couldn't do without them.

I tried a magnifier, but there is no comparison. Loupe every time.

Dumb question ... when you use a loupe, do you shut the other eye? If so, does that cause eye strain?

Thanks.

[Martyd3]

Found this thread ... very interesting.

http://watchmakingblog.com/2009/10/01/loupe-or-optvisor/

[lanikai]

if you already wear glasses there is a attachment that I've seen watch makers use .. it attaches to one side of the frame and you can move it up and down.. pretty cool.. and I would expect it comes in different mags..

it's personal preference how you use the loupe I guess.. I find when I keep both eye's open it is less strain.. I have astigmatism and eye strain is a problem for me..

[Ronin]

I have both a B&L 4x with head-wire, and Optivisor. I have to admit I have a easier time focusing with the Optivisor and its stereo optics. That said, I usually reach for that first.

[Bike Mike]

Dumb question ... when you use a loupe, do you shut the other eye? If so, does that cause eye strain?

Thanks.

When first starting out you will shut one eye because it seems natural. It will may take you time to develop using a loop while keeping both eyes open. The most effect I got was when I was done, the eye I was using the loop on was always focused up close and would not focus on far away objects. Goes away after 20 minutes or so after your loop eye relaxes. Never have strained to the point of feeling it though.

Everyone is different. Really depends on if you have a dominate I too. I used to be right eye dominate, but have overcome this and now can use both eyes equally. Like when shooting a gun.