I am looking for a combination magnifier/lamp to use for rod building and fly tying. I have the headband style loop but the focal length requires one to be very close to the work. Between an aching back and inhaling epoxy fumes, I've got to find something else....any suggestiions? Thanks

Try Office Depot or Staples they should have what you are looking for.

Here's a sight for magnifiers & lamps:

[www.lightspc.com]

I have not done business with them, so caveat emptor.

---Steve

Stay away from the incedensent bulbs. They get hot on the hands if you put it close.

The floresecent bulbs are more but much easier to work with.

Angler's Workshop offers one in there catalog, I don't know if its in their online catalog www,anglerswhorkshop.com
Its $29,95, 3.5" dia. 3-diopter lens, and 39" flex-arm.
Jim

Don't know if you have Menard's stores in your area, but the type of round fluorescent light with magnfier on a swinging arm mounted from the side or behind works well. They may also be available in the larger department K-mart or Wal-mart type stores, fairly inexpensive and have an added plug in with the unit. The swing arm conveniently moves out of the way to either side, or up and down for close up work. The field of view is limited within the 5" magnifier, but the surrounding light keeps shadows to a minimum.

Also used a very similar setup for many years observing micro close up work in a clinical laboratory situation. About as good as anything else out there, and fairly inexpensive. Mounts easily with a clamp on to your workbench with very little space, yet the lamp moves out of the way quickly and easily. I don't know the brand name, but it is a beige colored unit (may be black, too) and I have been using one for about 4 years and yet to replace the light element.

I use the magnafying glasses you can get at any pharmacy, Wallmart, Sams etc. I have to use reading glasses for my normal reading and have a pair with a higher diopter rating which I use when I wrap. You can try them out and get the diopter strength that suits you without being too close to your work. That and a good desk lamp and you're set for a whole lot less plus they are a lot more portable.