Refractometer selection

[alan mcilvried]

Since the discussion of refractometers has come up, and I'm running a QT tank on low salinity./.... Anyone have good/bac experience with the import refractometers on ebay? Is there a "recommended" brand you guys like that's not $100?

 

Using a float hydrometer for the time being, but I understand the discussion about low accuracy.

 

 

Al

[jnguyen4007]

I bought one a few weeks ago from Marine depot for $69 or somewhere around there. They have 4 models ranging from $49 up to $119. The most expensive model has a built in light so you can in effect take your reading in the dark. I read the review that people posted and selected on based on that. Hope this helps.

 

James

[YBeNormal]

The ones on E-bay may be perfectly fine or they may not be the right ones at all. It's luck of the draw.

 

I bought this one from drsfostersmith.com a couple of years ago. I checked it for calibration last night and it was on the mark for both 0ppt and 35ppt. Type in the coupon code "DODGE" during checkout for a 15% discount.

[Rascal]

I bought a cheap-o one from E-bay a couple of years ago for <$35. Tested it with pinpoint calibration fluid and it is right on a 35 ppm. I think it is luck of the draw though. Wish I could remember which store I bought it from, but it looks a lot like this one: http://item.express.ebay.com/Home-Garden_P...cmdZExpressItem

 

The pinpoint calibration solution is very cheap, and more than worth it for the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have an accurate reading.

[toastiireefs]

i bought the portable one on fosters for 44$

i think its the same one they are selling on premuium aquatics for 40$ im very happy with it. its easy to calabirate easy to use easy to read. comes in a cute little case - im sure they all do.. haha--

 

but its affordable

[YBeNormal]

Luck of the draw is true when buying from unknown sources and your right about calibration fluid being cheap insurance. If you happen to buy a refractometer that is designed for seawater but is miscalibrated, this is easy to correct. If you happen to buy a refractometer that is poorly built or is designed to measure NaCl or something other than seawater, it may never be accurate for any SG other than the one that it is specifically calibrated for.

 

The price difference between Foster and Smith and the prices you pay on E-bay is not that much and you can't beat Foster and Smith's customer service. I'd recommend buying the one linked above and bringing it to the meeting for a calibration check. If you are not happy with it you can return it for a full refund. Try that with an E-bay purchase!

[rioreef]

I got mine a few years ago from Northcoastmarines.com. Model

RHS10ATC . I have been very happy and no pins rusting on it either.

[fry_school101]

I got mine off of ebay too. It was less than $30 shipped and WAY better than a swing arm.

[YBeNormal]

I got mine off of ebay too. It was less than $30 shipped and WAY better than a swing arm.

 

Bring it to the meeting and let's make sure it is calibrated and accurate!

[fry_school101]

Bring it to the meeting and let's make sure it is calibrated and accurate!

 

 

Will do!

[alan mcilvried]

The ones on E-bay may be perfectly fine or they may not be the right ones at all. It's luck of the draw.

 

I bought this one from drsfostersmith.com a couple of years ago. I checked it for calibration last night and it was on the mark for both 0ppt and 35ppt. Type in the coupon code "DODGE" during checkout for a 15% discount.

 

 

OK. Got one coming from Foster and Smith. Will let you know how it turns out.