[APML]: ATM question

[Jim Fedina <jfedina@sbsusa.com>]

In talking with Olle Eriksson, I have a renewed interest in making my
own telescope. I am going to get some books on the subject, but would
like to know from individuals who have built their own scopes some of
the items that they have used. Olle had an excellent idea (IMO) for the
spider vanes for the diagonal mirror. He used hacksaw blades. Almost
everything he used in the construction of an 8inch dobsonian was made of
wood. The tube is probably the thing I would like to know from everyone.
What have you used for tubes? I can't think of anything that I have seen
that could be used. I know you can probably buy a tube from a supply
house, but I figure that might be more expensive than something that is
used for an entirely different purpose. I hope Olle doesn't mind if I
put his URL on this post, but here it is:
http://hem1.passagen.se/astrosci/
Also, roughly how much would the primary mirror for an 8inch cost? Is
there two prices, one for the mirror ready to install and one for
grounding it down yourself? I assume the ready to install would be more
expensive but easier on a newbie.
Anyway, sorry for the long post, but if anyone can find the time to give
me as much info as possible in this project, I would greatly appreciate
it.

Thanks,
Jim Fedina