Sky-Watcher 5.3kg counterweight set - EQ3-2 / EQ5 / HEQ5 / EQ6
Proper balance is the foundation of accurate sky tracking. Whether you have added heavier optics, swapped your tube for a more robust model, or simply need a replacement weight, this Sky-Watcher set is exactly what you are looking for. The Sky-Watcher 5.3kg replacement counterweight set is designed for the popular EQ3-2, EQ5, HEQ5 and EQ6 mounts, giving you a stable and precisely balanced telescope setup.
Two weights in one set - flexible and practical
The set consists of two individual counterweights - one weighing 3.5kg and one weighing 1.8kg - which together provide a total of 5.3kg of balancing mass. This split is highly practical: you can use both weights together for maximum load, or each one separately depending on the current weight of your optical assembly. Both pieces fit the standard 20mm counterweight shaft, so fitting them to your existing bar is instant and trouble-free.
Compatibility with Sky-Watcher equatorial mounts
Counterweights for Sky-Watcher EQ3-2, EQ5, HEQ5 and EQ6 mounts are engineered to fit perfectly on the standard counterweight shafts of these models. The EQ5 and HEQ5 series mounts are particularly widespread among both visual observers and astrophotographers - they can carry everything from compact refractors to medium-sized Newtonian reflectors. If you have increased the weight of your telescope with accessories such as a camera, finder scope or guide scope, adding an extra counterweight is the quickest and most effective way to restore proper right ascension axis balance.
Why correct balance matters for astrophotography
Good mount balance is not just a matter of comfort. In astrophotography it directly affects guiding accuracy, motor load and the final quality of your images. An unbalanced system causes the motors to work unevenly, leads to flexure in the mechanism and results in star trailing in your photos. With a sufficient counterweight set and the flexibility of the 3.5kg and 1.8kg split, you can handle virtually any optical configuration you place on these mounts.
Construction and installation
The counterweights are made from cast iron with a smooth surface finish and are equipped with a safety locking screw that fixes each weight at the chosen position on the shaft, preventing any accidental movement or sliding. Fitting and adjusting the position of the counterweights takes only a few seconds - even in the field, wearing gloves or in poor lighting conditions.
Key specifications
| Parameter |
Value |
| Total weight |
5.3kg |
| Individual weights |
3.5kg + 1.8kg |
| Shaft diameter |
20mm |
| Material |
Cast iron |
| Safety locking screw |
Yes |
| Compatible mounts |
Sky-Watcher EQ3-2, EQ5, HEQ5, EQ6 |
Who is this set for?
- Visual observers who have added heavier eyepieces, finders or other accessories
- Astrophotographers using a camera, guide scope or additional equipment on their telescope
- Anyone replacing a lost or damaged original counterweight
- Users who have upgraded to a heavier optical tube on their existing EQ5, HEQ5 or EQ6 mount
