Quick simple high transmission lens with an old PHR sled / Tutorial video included

In my recent ventures to make a high transmission beam expander for 445, I ended up testing
many different lens configurations. While on this path, I revisited the PHR, just to try something.

To my surprise, the results were not bad at all, my only issue was that the lenses in the PHR sled
are acrylic, but still a neat little project for those who have these parts on hand and wish to try
this out.

All you need is a PHR sled, and an old 3 element type lens nut from aixiz or various vendors here
on the forum. I would suggest using the less expensive 650nm 3 element lens nut.

So for those who give it a go, be sure to post your results.. Depending on your lenses and their
condition, mileage will vary.

:beer:

Well holy hell!!! That is awesome!!!! I am surprised I am the first person to comment on this, considering the implications of a newer, better, cheaper lens alternative! +rep :beer:

Out of curiosity, would you be willing to do this for someone for a fee? I don't have any drills or anything but am interested in getting this setup. If not that is fine, just curious. Either way though, brilliant work!!!

Appreciate it :beer:

The only issue with this setup is the lenses are acrylic, so its not always a feasible arrangement
for most. Its hard to find a PHR sled with a good condition asphere. Unless its in pristine
condition, the more power you pass through, the more chance you will burn it up.

The flat lens is usually in perfect condition unless the pickup was removed, it remains
covered and protected, so debris on that lens is not a big issue.

A person on youtube had asked if a 6x sled would work, so I pulled one apart and found
that both lenses are smaller which defeats the better divergence aspect, though in
the 6x, the plano convex was glass. Regardless, both lenses were too small to use
unless a complete custom holder is made to mount them.

As for setting up the lens nuts, if you do not have a lathe you can still set up the smaller lens
it will just take more care to get it flush and centered, but is possible, will just take more attention
to get it sitting right.