Do the 4 leg models (RRS or Feisol) give anything up in stability in normal field positions/heights. Not concerned about running at full height for standing or as rear rest on barricades as I'd say anything is better than nothing in those cases. Max height being at probably kneeling shots or maybe standing crouched over is it best to go with more compact model?
Tripod Legs 3vs4
- Thread starter Conrad
- Start date
I always prefer less leg sections, 1: less time adjusting the legs to get into position, 2: in theory, its going to be more stable, for the simple fact that theres one less "joint". Also, the more sections you have, the thinner the legs are going to be at the bottom, which may or may not have an effect on stability. Ive always tried to keep the bottom section extended the least amount as possible to avoid any potential stability issues anyways. While you may only use it for positions up to kneeling, expect the possibility of using the tripod in the standing.
Is having 3"-4" less when folded, going to make a big difference in compactness for you? Do you have the extra 1-2 seconds per leg section to adjust all 4 sections in order to get the tripod to proper height? Granted the time is probably an extreme factor, but it may help in your decision. For kneeling, you may only have to adjust 1 section per leg to get proper height with a 3 section tripod, but with a 4 sections theres a possibility of adjusting 2 sections per leg. Just things to think about.
Is having 3"-4" less when folded, going to make a big difference in compactness for you? Do you have the extra 1-2 seconds per leg section to adjust all 4 sections in order to get the tripod to proper height? Granted the time is probably an extreme factor, but it may help in your decision. For kneeling, you may only have to adjust 1 section per leg to get proper height with a 3 section tripod, but with a 4 sections theres a possibility of adjusting 2 sections per leg. Just things to think about.
3 legs is more stable and less prone to those tiny vibrations you may or may not notice, especially on higher magnification. The 4 leg models will usually give you more height. You need to pick based on your needs and preferences.
I have a 4 section leg but rarely need to use mush more than half of the 3rd
I got a smoking deal on a Gitzo 3542xls (max height is something like 6'8") so I bought a 4 section tripod... It's only 8 oz more and 3" longer closed but I gain an additional 20" if I ever need it.
If I was buying brand new I would probably get 3.
I got a smoking deal on a Gitzo 3542xls (max height is something like 6'8") so I bought a 4 section tripod... It's only 8 oz more and 3" longer closed but I gain an additional 20" if I ever need it.
If I was buying brand new I would probably get 3.
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I don't even own a tripod but I am in construction and have taken enough surveyors classes to know there is a reason surveyors use 3 leg tripods for total stations and running levels.
you set up a three leg and it will always be stable.
set up a 4 leg and it's going to be like a kitchen table, you will chase lengthing and shortening legs to get it stable.
you set up a three leg and it will always be stable.
set up a 4 leg and it's going to be like a kitchen table, you will chase lengthing and shortening legs to get it stable.
I noticed right away that people are mis-speaking when they are talking about 3 vs. 4 legs, including the OP and title. Obviously this discussion is centered around the number of leg sections on each leg. A four legged stand would not be a tripod, now would it?
As for the question, it's already been mentioned that a 4-sectioned tripod leg will necessarily be less stable due to the simple fact that that fourth section has to be that much thinner in order to slide inside the third section. That is the crux of the whole discussion.
As for the question, it's already been mentioned that a 4-sectioned tripod leg will necessarily be less stable due to the simple fact that that fourth section has to be that much thinner in order to slide inside the third section. That is the crux of the whole discussion.
I have a 4 section RRS (tvc34)...stability is not an issue...it packs up like 4-5" shorter which doesn't seem like much until you see them side by side...my buddy has the 3 section and it's not as packable at all
Most of the flex in top shelf carbon fiber tripod legs (like RRS) comes from the joints where the leg sections join.
I have a RRS TVC 33. A shooting buddy has the TVC 34. At the same height, the TVC 34 legs exhibit more flex.
I have a RRS TVC 33. A shooting buddy has the TVC 34. At the same height, the TVC 34 legs exhibit more flex.
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I am leaning towards 3 sections based on the KISS principle, which is why I chose RNVGs over the super cool articulating NVGs... My friend went with articulating NVGs and is already experiencing FAILURES, then again he did NOT take my advice to go with TNVC but instead went with another manufacturer whom I will not mention!!! Articulating NVGs technically have 3 failure points, if you are not including tubes and the on off switch.
It’s all about trade-offs, but with good equipment (read RRS) you get pretty damned close to the splitting of hairs out in the real world. A fella just needs to be realistic about portability vs how much you will actually use it at full extension. I’ve got a 34 w/ Anvil 30. It’s already a bit taller than my pack, but not hard to always have with me. The 33 is 28” collapsed, which is 4.5” longer than a regular 34. Up to the individual to determine what is most important.
