Some dovetail systems use screws to bear directly against a narrow dovetail bar.  However, the Half Hitch grips its heavy-duty dovetail plate over the full length of the generous saddle with leveraged, vise-like rails.  Direct-In dovetail engagement is now a standard feature on the Mark III Half Hitch.  Attach your scope by inserting the dovetail plate directly into the saddle.  You need not slide the dovetail into place from the end.

The dovetail plate provides flexible attachment schemes including counter-bored 1/4-inch holes at each end and a central "counter-bored" slot.  The dovetail plate also includes two different provisions for a safety stop.  Note that the tube rings for your OTA must provide centerline attachment holes.

Get a solid grip with the Half Hitch's semi-ratcheting dovetail clamping handles.

The Half Hitch dovetail plate and saddle include an engraved scale on the backside to assist in adjusting or presetting balance.

The standard 6.5-inch and optional 8-inch Half Hitch dovetail plates

The Half Hitch Includes Necessities Some Mounts Don't

The rigid, all-machined and hard-anodized dovetail plate is included with the Half Hitch — as is the saddle assembly.  The basic Half Hitch unit is not just a "head" but a ready-to-use mount.  Would you buy a car without a steering wheel?