Tripod vs Scope stand

[lennyo3034]

I just picked a Pentax spotting scope and am looking for a stand for it. Right now I'm trying to decide between a tripod or a scope stand. I've shot a few high-power matches and almost everybody uses a stand as opposed to a tripod. Most people here however seem to favor the tripod and they seem more versatile.

Can anyone give the pros/cons between the two?

I'd prefer to spend only $150 or so and I have no issue with buying a used one.

 

[metal2meat]

Re: Tripod vs Scope stand

If your on a budget and need to decide between the two form, I'd suggest the tripod. Sure you'll have to position it carefully on the match line to keep it out of your way a bit, but you'll have something you can take to the field for hunting, bird watching, chick watching, whatever! The scope stands are great on the firing line because they stay out of your way. I highly recommend Bogen (lots of models and price range to choose from) or if you want a decent one for about $100 look at the Vangaurd at sportsmans warehouse. You can always use the tripod for taking pics of birds or chicks too.

 

[lennyo3034]

Re: Tripod vs Scope stand

I really like the feature on the Manfrotto where the center pole can be tilted away from where the legs intersect here:

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=2109122

Does anyone know what that feature is called and if its offered on any other tripod? Preferably a cheaper one.

Thanks.

 

[TexIndian]

Re: Tripod vs Scope stand

Gitzo is another brand that offers the movable center post (Gitzo Explorer). I used to be big into photography and have several tripods of that quality but none of them come cheap. Many photog tripods come without heads (the part that moves and swivels around and attaches to your lens, scope, etc) so be careful when shopping online. Frankly, if you want a quality tripod (and head) that will have all the features mentioned, it will cost more than your spotting scope.

The main feature for a photographer is rigidity. Here's a tip for a cheaper tripod - hang some weight from it. It doesn't have to be anything fancy, just hang 10-20lbs from the top of the tripod with a wire or string. That really cuts down on vibrations. Several of the tripods I paid an obscene amount for came with a little hook under the head just for that purpose.

If you want your eyes to glaze over at all the options out there, try B&H Photo Supply. It's a quality dealer.

 

[lennyo3034]

Re: Tripod vs Scope stand

Would this one work? I see it has a hook at the bottom of the post as well.

http://www.amazon.com/Vanguard-Alta-Pro-263AT-Multi-Angle/dp/B003BQ1D4C

 

[lennyo3034]

Re: Tripod vs Scope stand

I ended up getting this one:

http://www.hfpone.com/product_p/ap264gh100.htm

Although now that I look at it, it may be more suitable for a straight spotter as opposed to an angled one. This is the spotter I bought:

http://swfa.com/Pentax-20-60x80-ED-Spotting-Scope-P4402.aspx

 

[DAVETOOLEY]

Re: Tripod vs Scope stand

Guys this is what you want. I've used them for 20 years with big eyes, two spotting scopes paired up. Cherry pick ebay and they don't cost anymore than a good used camera tripod but are much steadier even in high winds. Legs extend and so does the center column on most.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Quickset-Cam-Lin...=item43a93b696f