Quick Answer

Choose mounting rings that match the outside diameter of your telescope tube, and look for felt-lined, hinged rings with flat tops if you plan to mount a guidescope or camera.

Why Ring Size Matters Most

The single most important factor is matching the ring’s inside diameter to the outside diameter of your telescope tube. A ring that is too large will not hold the tube securely; one that is too small simply won’t fit. Measure the tube’s outer diameter at the point where the rings will sit, and order the corresponding size.

If you plan to attach accessories on top, consider rings with flat tops. This provides a stable platform for a guidescope, camera, or other gear. Felt lining is another useful feature—it prevents the metal ring from scratching or marring your tube’s finish.

Hinged vs. Solid Rings

Hinged rings with a thumbscrew closure make installation and removal easier. You can open the ring, place it around the tube, and tighten the thumbscrew without needing tools. Solid rings require sliding the tube through, which is more cumbersome, especially on larger telescopes.

The trade-off is that hinged rings may have a slightly more complex mechanism, but for most users the convenience outweighs any downside.

Decision Rules for Mounting Rings

  • Measure first: Measure the outside diameter of your telescope tube at the mounting point. Order rings that match that diameter exactly. Keep a record of your tube’s outside diameter for future accessory purchases.
  • Choose felt-lined rings for finish protection: Felt-lined rings prevent scratches and marring on your tube. If your tube has a delicate coating, this is a must.
  • Prefer flat-top rings for accessories: If you plan to mount a guidescope or camera, select rings with flat tops to provide a stable platform. Check the weight capacity of the rings if you plan to mount heavy accessories.
  • Hinged rings for easy installation: Hinged rings with thumbscrew closure allow tool-free installation and removal. Choose these for convenience, especially on larger tubes.

Product Facts

  • Mounting Rings: Mounting rings attach to your mounting plate and hold your tube assembly firmly in place. The tops of the rings are flat, allowing you to support a guidescope, camera, or other accessories. They feature a hinged assembly with thumbscrew closure and are felt-lined to prevent marring of your tube. This design gives you a secure, scratch-free hold and a ready platform for adding accessories like a guidescope or camera.

    Mounting Rings

    Mounting Rings

Who Should Choose These Rings

Best for

  • Telescope owners who want a secure, scratch-free hold for their tube
  • Astrophotographers who need a flat top to mount a guidescope or camera

Not for

  • Users who need rings for a tube with a non-standard diameter not offered in the size options