What kind of microscope do I need?

[Alibo]

So I told DH that a microscope was an absolute must have for the farm. I am searching the Web for what kind and getting conflicting info on if I need a minimum of x10 magnification or if it can start at x40. Here are some links to a few on Amazon, I hate shopping and need someone to tell me to "buy this one!"

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00A..._SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=microscopes&psc=1


https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B019..._SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=microscopes




https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B006..._SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=microscopes


I wanted to stay under $90 so I can buy slides and beakers and tubes ect.

 

[Southern by choice]

None of these have a mechanical stage which is a must for fecals.

Chalex is best for a complete McMasters kit- http://www.vetslides.com/paracount-epg-fecal-analysis-kit-with-mcmaster-type-counting-slides

You want this-
Kit with 2 two chamber green grid slides $60

 

[Alibo]

Thanks! Are the mcmaster slides a must or is there a quantitative way to do it with a blank slide?

 

[Green Acres Farm]

I've heard of people using plain slides, but I don't know how they do it. You don't have an accurate way of obtaining an EPG or marking where you are on the slide. They are worth the money IMO.

 

[Alibo]

OK so in your opinion would this microscope do the job sufficiently?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BEK1WZW/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1490668279&sr=8-8&refinements=p_85:2470955011&rps=1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=microscope+mechanical+stage

And do you recommend purchasing a professional flotation medium or would a homemade solution work just as well?

 

[Southern by choice]

McMasters is the most accurate way to determine reduction, efficacy, load etc.
Without EPG's you can only determine if prasites are present but not load.

 

[Alibo]

Understood

 

[Southern by choice]

I wrote a few articles on this under the articles section- it explains the entire process. 2 parts due to pictures...

I like the sugar solution best as some solutions can crush- IMO it is the best and simplest.

It might the slides are thick and some of the cheaper scopes don't have enough room.

 

[Alibo]

Thank you, I looked through but must have missed it

 

[Latestarter]

https://www.backyardherds.com/resources/the-mcmasters-method-fecal-analysis.55/
https://www.backyardherds.com/resources/mcmasters-method-fecal-analysis-part2.57/