Is anyone out there using a camera set up like the monfretto 055 for fclass spotting scope mounts? If so how do they compare to a pole type tripod mount? Also is there any other brands other then the monfretto that does the same adjustment?
Yes. I have used both. I started with a Ray Vin F-stand, I am not sure if they are still being sold.
I went to a Vanguard Alta Pro which is identical to a Manfrotto minus the price tag. The wide profile requires a generous shooting lane. If it is just You set up on the firing line then there is no problem, but in F-Class we usually have two shooters set up at on the same firing position to save time during relays and help the shooter that's on deck set up quicker.
This may or may not pose a problem depending once again on the width of the shooting lane.
If your spotting scope is heavy then a single rod style stand may have stability issues. The F-stand is not a normal "tripod" so the Creedmoor or Freeland may be more stable.
The camera stand offers more adjustability. Especially if you get the right ball head or a pistol grip style. You can make quick adjustments one handed during your string of fire. Because of this and the generally lower profile of the camera stands I feel they are superior.
Manfrotto has carbon fiber and aluminum tripod legs, in 3 and 4 leg sections, models 055 and 190. I have the Manfrotto MT190CXPRO4. I chose it over the 055 because it was shorter by a couple inches and thus when splayed out on the line, it would take up less room. I chose the 4 leg sections instead of the 3 sections of the PRO3, again, because it was shorter, albeit more expensive. It has carbon fiber legs and a magnesium plate. I wanted carbon fiber for durability, lightweight and strength.
The Vanguard is NOT identical to a Manfrotto; it's heavier, has longer legs, doesn't get anywhere near as close to the ground and is only made of aluminum. But yes, it is much cheaper.
I've had the 190 for a few years now and tried a couple of heads on it before settling on the Manfrotto 327RC2 pistol grip head, which works very well. It is made of magnesium and the central ball is a hollow stainless steel design. The grip locks on very solidly. The tripod and the pistol grip head support my Kowa 82SV very nicely and it is very easy to adjust from position.
I'm so glad you gave the link to that older thread because you had this old man baffled when you talked about the leg locks of your 190. You see, on my 190, the locks are the exact same QPL design as on your 055. In fact, the owner's manual (sheet, really) is on and the same for the 190 and the 055 and it talks about how to adjust the tension on the QPLs as desired.No idea as to the foot print; never got out a tape measure and checked. It's not exactly friendly for use when pair firing two or three to a mound.
The particulars: its a Manfrotto 055-XPROB with a Manfrotto 322RC2 pistol-grip ball head, carrying a Kowa 821M scope. Here's a link to an earlier thread, that has a further link to a Dropbox folder with some pics of the 190 vs 055.
FWIW... my 190 with the 4 section legs is down and out. It has the twist/collet leg locks... and one pulled apart, and will not go back together. I much prefer the big heavy-duty clamping locks on the 055. The 055 has been drug all over hell and back, and still works just fine. The head where the column comes thru has came apart a time or two as things have gotten worn... it took a bit of fiddling to get it back together... but its still going strong.
Yes like that. What size is the foot print when it's folded out and low like that? What setup is that in the picture?
Thanks,
Anthony
I was at the range yesterday.
Manfrotto 055 was 3ft 4"
Alta Pro was 3ft
Manfrotto build quality better, but was Significantly HEAVIER. Also slightly thicker.
They have basically the same profile in terms of lowness.
Sorry I meant to post these for you yesterday, but I was extremely busy.
3ft is basically what you're looking at either way you go. The Manfrotto is infinitely more popular but they both accomplish the same objective so pick what you feel you can budget for.
I think it's important to invest money in the Head. I would even get the cheaper legs if it meant you could upgrade. The Pistol grip is probably the best way to go since it allows one hand adjustments while you're looking through the scope and will lock with you release it. I did a lot of research before making a decision as I always do and decided what I thought would work best for me.
I would have liked the 4 section and carbon fiber legs for size and weight savings but couldn't justify the cost. I didn't feel the Manfrotto added enough value as I was going on a stretch to mount a spotting scope and had already invested several hundred in a different option I didn't like.
Feel free to defer to the above posters. Milanuk's article is what put me on the path of a camming tripod.
I knew there was a better way. I'm not convinced that the camming tripod is the best method due to the large profile, but it's where I'm at right now.
I have one of these. I liked it better than my PoleCat set up. However, I just got a Ray Vin, and I like it. This will be for sale with the head in the classifieds as soon as I get a chance to put an add up.
https://www.manfrotto.us/190-go-aluminum-4-section-tripod-with-twist-locks-grey
I have other Manfrotto tripods and monopods; my oldest Manfrotto is a huge aluminum monster that has the same types of leg locks you 190GO has and that is the only thing I ever hated about that tripod. When I was shopping for a newer model, I wanted to be sure it did not have those dreaded locks.
Are you going to Ottawa?
What is the footprint t on the tripod when it is spread out? I'm trying to decide of I have enough room to get it where I shoot.