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    Re: Practice Bubble vs. Professional Bubble
    From: Paul Saffo
    Date: 2012 Aug 7, 09:42 -0700

    David,
    You have a third option -- an aircraft bubble horizon converted for use on a sextant. Cost typically runs $200 to $400 and they show up on eBay from time to time. I got mine from a member of this list who does an esp nice conversion.

    I found the practice bubbles nearly useless.

    I have three other AHs. Here is my opinion:
    -- the converted aircraft bubble: best choice. It is affordable and is terrific for both day and night sights.
    -- the last version Plath Bubble horizon. Fine for night, but very difficult for day sights because the lighting level isn't adjustable.
    -- the middle version Plath bubble: it terrific for both day and night sights. It has an adjustable internal light powered from the sextant. It is my favorite AH.

    I also have a 1941 continuo-style Tamaya Sextant with integral bubble horizon. It is a fascinating device, but awkward to use. After messing around with it for a few hours, it became obvious why so few of this style AH was made. A pain to use on dry land; I can't imagine trying to use it in a plane.

    Finally, I don't have the earliest Plath AH (am still hoping to get one), but suspect it is the best option as it apparently has both an adjustable light and an adjustable bubble.

    I am happy to send photos if you like, Feel free to contact me directly if you want to have a phone call about any of this.

    best
    -p

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