Subject: This is my personal opinion about the cylinder or (astigmatic) measurement.
Reference: When I was nearsighted, the OD consistently over-prescribed for "astigmatism". I truly hated that prescription - it gave me migraine headaches. Here is how I measure my refractive status with a spherical minus lens.
Item: I get many questions about this issue. I think all "astigmatism" is so small - that *I* can, and will ignore it.
If a spherical lens (by your own test) gives you self-measured 20/20 - I truly doubt you need an "astigmatic" enhancement. Here is my opinion on this subject.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=po4O5eAYmicThe next video, shows how difficult it is to use a "rickety" trial-frame for this measurement. I truly doubt that it is ever 1) Accurate, or even 2) Necessary.
As always, do your own research, and make your own wise decisions and choices. I certainly believe that objective self-measurement is the way to resolve this issue.
My goal is to get to, and objectively pass the 20/40 line. I do not want to wear an astigmatic lens - if I am objectively reading the 20/20 line. Maybe you want to - I do not want to - that is why I do this myself.
Otis