Base for 1st Gen Vision Engineering Mantis Scope Base

thingiverse

I picked up a first gen Mantis scope a few years ago that did not come with a base. They seem to be rare. Vision engineering was friendly but was unable to help with replacement parts short of a nice, shiny new scope at big $$$. I thought I had won when I found I could order a 'universal' base, but it was only universal for the later generation :-(I used OpenSCAD and a good bit of trial and error to get the right fit.I would have used a stronger material than PLA to print, but that's all I'm set up for right now. I have another version I was working on based on an iron pipe flange and pipe nipple with a PLA overlay that I might work on again if I'm not happy with this version.I have sized the holes to fit either M6 or 1/4" bolts and various caps/washers. Standard washers for 1/4" bolts will not fit, but everything else I tried at the local HW shop fit.I included 2 versions. One has a cutout for a clamp and the other does not.Feel free to have fun with the OpenSCAD source. It could use some cleaning up, but...Be sure to test your print to make sure it is strong enough for your use. Use at your own risk. I'm not happy with using the rubber footed clamp. I will try an all metal clamp next.This item has not been tested on animals or small children. Yet...I'm hoping someone else can take advantage of my work and keep these cool scopes in use.