Magnification ...?

[HenrikBP]

Late reply, but this is what I use, a Russian Belomo 10x loupe:

That's a really nice loupe. The bigger lens and depth of field would certainly make it much easier to use.

Thanks,

Henrik

 

[wrybosome]

I like these Hastings triplets when I look for little motes of dust or crystals in a liquid. They'd be fine for looking at an orifice for dings. You can pick stereoscopes up very cheaply online as well.

EDIT: Just read the Belomo ad...I'll have to get one of those and try it.

 

[Leisure Pro Brett]

I used to use a microscope, from what I can remember it was 40-60 x and worked great, it was also quite an expensive piece of hardware. Using loupes, mind you the cheap ebay ones, was a total PITA, the depth of field was really tough to work with or even tell what you were looking at sometimes. For the price difference though, I think dealing with a loupe is probably the way to go.

 

[Ed Palma]

I use this (just because I already have it...):

It allows me to maintain stereovision. Depth of field is narrow though, but I'm used to it. Limited adjustment for working distance.

Its also great for soldering small circuits. And surgery.

 

[Wet Wes]

Focalprice.com offers USB Digital Microscope Video Camera (White) ,discount USB Digital Microscope Video Camera (White),USB Digital Microscope Video Camera (White) products,low price USB Digital Microscope Video Camera (White),cheap USB Digital Micro

I have one of these, and have really enjoyed it. I am a Mac user, and it plugs right in and works. It is designed for a PC. I think it will be nice for your problem. You can also use the computer to take a pic.