The multitalented Half Hitch tips the scale at only 7.5 pounds (with dovetail plate, encoders, Sky Commander, finder bracket, and Balance Trimmer)!  The Half Hitch doesn't need counterweights or a tripod extension column.  Moreover, because of it's centerline loading, the Half Hitch performs well with lightweight tripods.  Bottom line, the Half Hitch excels as a grab 'n go mount because it delivers rigid support and excellent tripod clearance, permitting an overall lightweight package that is packed with advanced features.

The Half Hitch complete with Sky Commander DSC and Balance Trimmer weighs less than the counterweight alone of a typical small equatorial mount.  The Half Hitch is far more rigid, as well.

Some Mounts Simply Overwhelm Grab 'n Go Scopes

Some mounts boast about their carrying capacities like it's their only virtue — implying a larger capacity equates to a better mount.  In this "bigger is better" race, the qualities that make a good grab 'n go mount are completely forgotten.

By contrast, the Half Hitch is optimized for the grab 'n go mission:

• Proportioned to grab 'n go OTAs

• Centerline payload position for good balance on lightweight tripods

• Excellent tripod clearance means no tripod extension column is needed

• Full range of advanced features in a miniaturized package

Make no mistake, the Half Hitch is a heavy-duty mount — but it is targeted to a specific mission and range of OTA sizes.  The Half Hitch delivers one of the highest stiffness-to-weight ratios available.  For scopes appropriate to grab 'n go application, you will not find more rigid support than the Half Hitch without overwhelming the grab 'n go qualities of the scope.