Tripod Help Please

[Ledd Slinger]

I recently ordered a new spotting scope and am in need of a good tripod that won't cost a ton of money . I'm not afraid to spend in the $400 range if it's worth it, but there are so many options out there that it becomes confusing and I really don't want to spend a lot without being able to personally put my hands on it first. The selection of tripods on hand at local sporting goods stores is limited and I know there are probably nicer options out there.

I want a good fluid head and very sturdy platform for a full size spotter while being as light as possible for hiking. Over 65" height. Perhaps carbon fiber legs.

For reference purposes, spotter is a Meopta Meostar S2 HD 20-70x82mm.

Thanks much for any help folks

 

[Cort]

I am using a Manfrotto 3021BN tripod with a Manfrotto 700RC2 panhead. I do not know what the equivalent model numbers are today. The tripod and head have given me very good service both at the range and while chasing birds and other wildlife.

Cort

 

[dkhunt14]

I have bought a lot of good tripods and heads on ebay. Usually for a fraction of cost. To review tripods there are a lot of birding and photography sites where you can go and read about reviews of tripods and heads.

 

[jimcasey01]

I have a Bogen/Manfrotto 5051 that I have had since the '80s. It will handle any spotting scope. I used it for 4x5 and 8x10 (10-30+ lbs with lens) view cameras in another life. Not the lightest, but stability is directly correlated to weight. I have a sling for it to go over the shoulder, or in the past you could get soft cases with sling type straps. A lighter tripod can be used with the addition of a sandbag or water jug hanging from the center post. An empty jug can be filled with water at most ranges. The bag or jug will help a much lighter tripod significantly. The head is the portion that you need to take the most care in selecting. Any of the truly heavy duty heads will work. Lighter heads will slowly drift towards the weighted end. Majestic (if they are still around) used to make a geared head with crank handles.......... SWEET, but pricey. Check to see if Manfrotto offers a geared head. Worth their weight in gold when using them.

 

[jimcasey01]

Quick Ebay search provided this, Majestic tripods were the top end. I know nothing of this seller or his ratings, just a very quick search. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Majestic-Tripod-4400-w-1200-Geared-Head-for-up-to-Large-Format-Video-/111458521316?_trksid=p2054897.l5659

 

[crankythunder]

Dear Ledd:

I have used a number of tripods and I keep on coming back to the coaches tripod that they sell at champion shooters supply.

Light weight, sturdy, and it has the micro windage and elevation adjustments on the flexible tubes that are invaluable. Most spotters need the fine adjustments to zero in on the target.


Almost as sturdy as my leitz survey level wood tripod.

Check them out, the cost is about 100 bucks, worth every penny and you will not get a better one for four times the cost.

 

[Ledd Slinger]

Thanks folks. I'll check them out. My initial thoughts were Manfrotto, the carbon fiber model 294 with ball head to be exact. Will definitely check out others mentioned as well.

Anyone have experience with Gitzo tripods?

 

[Ledd Slinger]

After a ton of research, I think I have found the right fit for my needs.

Planning on going with the Manfrotto (New version) 190CXPRO4 tripod legs and perhaps a Manfrotto joystick head. Should give me +/- 65" of max height, fairly compact when folded, and be about as light and sturdy as possible for a tripod that size without breaking the bank.

Haven't bought anything yet though so still open to suggestions of comparable current production tripods. thanks folks.

 

[Ledd Slinger]

Ordered the Manfrotto MT190CXPRO4 legs and Manfrotto 3 way photo/video head.

Should give me a max height of 67" and a total legs/head combined weight of less than 5lbs while being able to support 3 times the listed weight of my spotting scope. Found some good deals on ebay and was able to stay in my budget as well.

Got some valuable input through PMs as well. Thanks everybody. ...Case closed