❌ No longer in print – physical copies are rare and expensive ($100–200 used).
❌ Outdated supplier list – many surplus lens sources are gone.
❌ No digital edition – so any PDF is a bootleg scan (often poor quality).
❌ Assumes advanced machining skills – not for the casual hobbyist.
❌ Heavy focus on 60–100mm objectives – larger sizes get less detail.
Making a Refractor Telescope is considered the definitive modern guide for amateurs who want to grind, polish, and figure their own lens (objective) rather than buying one. making a refractor telescope norman remer pdf 12 new
Key topics covered include:
This is an out-of-print, niche amateur document. It will not be on Amazon or commercial ebook sites. Try these specialized archives: ❌ No longer in print – physical copies
| Book | Best for | Difficulty | |------|----------|------------| | Remer – Making a Refractor | Refractors only | Advanced | | Texereau – How to Make a Telescope | Newtonians + refractors | Intermediate | | Berry – Build Your Own Telescope | Newtonians | Beginner | ✅ Only dedicated refractor-building book of its era
✅ Only dedicated refractor-building book of its era – fills a huge gap.
✅ Extremely detailed machining drawings – if you have a lathe, you can follow them.
✅ Covers lens testing (Ronchi, Foucault) as applied to refractors.
✅ No fluff – dense, technical, and practical.
✅ Timeless techniques – still relevant today.
The book you are looking for is likely: Title: Making a Refractor Telescope Author: Norman Remer Publisher: Willmann-Bell (often associated with the "new" standard in telescope making guides).