What types of magnifier do I need for regulator service?

[nohappy]

I'm trying to service my own regulator and I'm looking for a good magnifier to inspect regulator's component (scratches, cracks..).
However, the price and types of magnifier on the market are very rich. I don't know which one is suit for me.
How much power do I need? Or what types of magnifier is better for the job? (headset, table type?)

 

[northernone]

Depends on your eyesight... Lighting is as important as the lens. I like a jewelers 10x loupe for inspecting an orifice after polishing... A cheap (GLASS) magnifying glass is pretty good as well. A 4x is pretty versatile for smaller details.

Another option is a standard lens/light desk mounted solution. Hands free and lower magnification.

Many guys I know (most dive shops too I suppose) have no magnifying lens at all for servicing regs.

Cameron

 

[Fibonacci]

I use an OptiVisor with the DA-3 main lens and the optional OptiLoupe swing out 2.5x closeup lens (very handy when identifying fine thread details, checking the orifice edges etc).
Keeps your hands free and swings up out of the way in a second.
While there are many cheap knockoffs out there, the original OptiVisor has ground optical glass prismatic lenses... less eyestrain over a long session.

http://www.doneganoptical.com/products/optivisor
http://www.doneganoptical.com/products/optiloupe

 

[wetb4igetinthewater]

Would this work for you? 5x magnification: Tensor 17 in. LED Magnifier Desk Lamp-18504-001 - The Home Depot

 

[MichaelMc]

If you get a jeweler's loupe, I'd get one with a light in it. I got a 10x 18mm triplex glass jeweler's loupe for reg repair, but without a light. I regret not getting a lighted one. Balancing field of view vs magnifying power in your choice is hard enough. Having to get the light source in the right spot just adds to that.

Shifting around what I was looking at, the loupe, my eye, and having a light source at the right spot was not easy. With a 10x, the field of view is rather small, making it that much harder.

This seems to be the 5x from Home Depot, which looks tempting:
Stalwart 6.5 in. 40-LED 5x Black Desktop Magnifier Gooseneck Lamp-M550003 - The Home Depot