The Half Hitch alt-az telescope mount positions the load as close to the center of the tripod as possible, consistent with good tripod clearance for the telescope.  The centerline configuration yields significant advantages:

• Greater stability and resistance to tipping

• Less stress on both tripod and mount

• Lower moment of inertia for easier tracking

• Eyepiece swings through a smaller arc — less chasing the eyepiece

• More convenient observing position (facing the tripod, not squeezed to one side)

• Center of gravity changes very little with increasing telescope diameter

• No counterweights needed

The Half Hitch alt-az mount will bring out the best in your tripod!  In many instances, vibration problems are blamed on tripods when the real culprit is faulty telescope mount design that unduly stresses the tripod.  Switching to a heavier tripod is not a good solution for a grab 'n go telescope.  The Half Hitch telescope mount allows you to use a lighter tripod!

Taking Your Scope on a Plane?
 

The Half Hitch Will Get the Most from a Compact Photo Tripod.

Mounts that swing the load off to one side apply more stress to the tripod and can not match the stability of the Half Hitch's centerline load position.  Generally speaking, mounts with an outboard load configuration can not be used effectively on compactly folding photo tripods.