Doug Nelle uses this super cheap tripod to support his 5″ f/5 refractor telescope. The wooden structures are constructed out of oak. Doug has inserted dowels into the tops of the tubes to keep them from collapsing under load. If you want to build one for yourself [yo_tyler] suggests checking local thrift stores.
You can also make cheap stilts if you turn them upsidedown and put your feet where your hands go and put the armpads on the ground. they work pretty well, because instead of trying to walk after my hip surgery, i did that.
What is this HACK a day, or JUNK a day?
No, this is a hack as far as I’m concerned. It’s a good idea, and it’s good execution. I’m not quite sure why he chose to make it out of hardwood, but that’s another topic. However, I’m more interested in the telescope that sits on top. Perhaps a future hack?
stupid
I think it’s a creative solution utilizing materials at hand to a practical end.
Resourceful is the word.
It’s a legit hardware hack.
Cool idea, I think I still have a few pairs of crutches around here somewhere… It would sure be a conversation starter!