Stuart

I guess I do everything-breaking the rules. 1)I set up my cone back so that it sets parallel to the peep hole, perpendicular to the wall. 2) the cones are set at opposite angles along the length of the coil of clay. 3) I set the cone very close to the peep hole so that I can see each cone when loading the kiln. 4) I pack a kiln way to tight to see an element on the other side of the kiln.
 
 
Thank you for the alternative info, important points.

I guess I do everything-breaking the rules. 1)I set up my cone back so that it sets parallel to the peep hole, perpendicular to the wall. 2) the cones are set at opposite angles along the length of the coil of clay. 3) I set the cone very close to the peep hole so that I can see each cone when loading the kiln. 4) I pack a kiln way to tight to see an element on the other side of the kiln.

Here is a helpful link that goes to the Paragon kiln website, written by Arnold Howard.
 
How do you position the cones on the shelf so that you can see them through a peephole?

Hi stuart
Ya it's common problem for the potters. Usually if the atmosphere not reduction the cone will be seen clear enough. I have simple way to solve that problem, just blow it. So you just closer the peephole and blow it for several times. But remember don't too close, your mouth will burnt. I will guarantee it will be succeed.
I usually put the small test piece glazed beside the cone to make sure glaze melted well. The piece have a small hole so you can draw it by iron. You will see directly the glazes are melted well.
Okay good luck!
 

I can't see them to save my life. I tried welding goggles to no avail. I think it's my age and my eyesight. I look in and all I see is a red glow and maybe a shadow which I assume is an edge of something. I keep looking but it's always the same. Sorry.