Tripod Recommendations

[beb0541]

Gents,

I am looking into picking up a nice Tripod ($300 tops) and would really appreciate some suggestions. What works and what doesn't? I have heard Manfrotto makes a quality product. I do not need carbon fiber or anything that high speed. Simply looking for a durable, rugged, and all around quality tripod that will last me a long time. Thanks in advance.

Cheers,
Clark

 

[ptrlcop]

What are you going to use it for? If you are shooting off of it, with what gun?

I have used a manfrotto and own a PRS. The manfrotto will hold more weight and is more stable for a standing height. The PRS is lighter, more compact, and just as stable for kneeling or sitting heights.

If I am using a tripod it is because I packed it a fair distance to get there. Rarely do I have to get higher than kneeling. For me the PRS meets my needs.


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[LawnMM]

Manfrotto 055 is the gold standard, aluminum legs for around 250, carbon legs if trying to save weight and pack it in a long distance for around 350-450

 

[NoLegs24]

whichever model you pick go to adorama.com or bhphotovideo.com absolute best prices on manfrotto tripods/ tripod with head combo

Tripods with Heads | B&H Photo Video

ManfrottoCamera, Video & Photographic Tripods & Tripod Combos | Buy, Compare & Review | Adorama

 

[kansas]

I have a PRS heavy duty tripod with their grip head and works great. Manfrotto is the best though.

 

[beb0541]

Huge thanks for the feedback gents! Could someone easily describe the difference between these two Manfrotto packages or am I better of calling B&H. To be more specific, is the 3 way pan/tilt head worth the extra $80 dollars in your guys opinion or is that unnecessary as I am not a professional photographer. Anyone have both and can hit me with the pros cons.

To answer some questions above I am going to be running spotters, range finders, and 14+ lb bolt guns.

Manfrotto 055XPROB Tripod Legs (Black) w/ 804RC2 Head B&H Photo
Manfrotto MT055XPRO3-3W Aluminum Tripod with 3-Way MK055XPRO3-3W

P.S. I love this forum - The wealth of knowledgeable HELPFUL shooters is second to none! Thanks again.

 

[chooter]

If it is for a spotting scope, find a "Star D". Heavy duty aluminum tripod, easily tall enough for a standing spotter, and cheap. No longer made I believe but you can find them on ebay for around $50.

 

[LawnMM]

If you plan to shoot off the tripod I'd skip the head altogether and put the money towards a PIG saddle, cheaper option, or HOG saddle, nicer more expensive option, and mount that directly to the tripod

 

[beb0541]

I have a pig saddle and will swap the head off when I plan to shoot from it. The tripods primary purpose is for optics.

 

[Crazy1323]

I'll have to go look at the model number in a second, but I have a Manfrotto carbon fiber 4 piece leg tripod. I like carbon because it can damped movement a little better if on a surface with some shake. I use mine for photography more than shooting, so YMMV.

But I highly recommend Manfrotto. Packs up small enough to strap to a backpack and is taller than you would ever need for a standing spotter.


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[mikeltee]

I recommend really right stuff heads. I have the manfrotto 055 carbon fiber with the RRS head and my D4 with the Sigma 120-300 2.8 and its rock solid! Don't skimp on the head!

 

[beb0541]

Manfrotto tripod ordered! THANKS FOR ALL THE FEEDBACK!