In article , Steve wrote:

2 - I don't mind lugging the telescope and stand in and out of the back
garden, but I am frightened of dropping it or squeezing the tube too much
and damaging it. Is there any kind of handle or harness available to carry
it correctly?

I have the 8" and yes, the tube is rather thin walled. I keep mine in
the hall and carry it out in stages.
1/ Lift OTA off Dobsonian base and stand it in the corner (mirror end
down).
2/ Carry base out into garden and position it.
3/ Carry OTA outside and place it on the base.
I carry the OTA by resting the tube on my left arm and over my left
shoulder, with my right hand firmly gripping the mirror end of the tube.
I worry about slamming it into a door frame or some other obstruction,
but have been OK so far. I expect the 10" is a lot more cumbersome.
--
Jim Easterbrook http://astro.jim-easterbrook.me.uk/
N51.36 E0.25