M43 with a narrowband filter

I recently ordered an Orion narrowband filter which arrived during the waxing moon and clouds. Tonight was nice and clear so I had a chance to really try it out. I set up the ETX and centered M43 in Orion's sword and focused my 27mm EP. I next attached the filter and refocused. Voila! The sky was darker and the nebula was easier to see with higher contrast. The two bright stars embedded in the nebula were somewhat dimmed. Other than having to refocus the ETX which is a pain, the nebula filter looks like it will be very useful.