Tripod Suggestions

I am finally close to getting big glass (500mm). When I do this, I want to upgrade my tripod at the same time. Problem is, all my local camera shops are pretty limited on how many tripods they carry. As a result, I have a limited selection to view live. I was wondering what people here use and recommend for large glass? I want something versitile...not too heavy, that I can also walk a trail with if needed, but sturdy so the wind won't send too many vibrations. I would like to keep the cost down, but I don't know if it is realistic to get a great tripod and cut corners by purchasing the less expensive equipment. I have seen Gitzos and mostly Wimberly gimbal style heads used often and this seems to be a very reliable set-up, but Gitzos are not the cheapest thing around. Are other companies producing similar quality at lower prices (i.e., Induro)?

Here is what I am considering:
Induro Carbon 8X CT213
Induro BHD2 Ballhead (arca-like)
Wimberly Sidekick (this way when I have something other than my large glass, I can easily change back to my ballhead).

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated :)

Kurt

kurt, i have an induro 8x and a gitzo. i use the induro for macro/landscape stuff. i thought it was going to be great when i bought it. after using it for six months, i have seen that it does not compare to the gitzo. dont skimp on a tripod. if i had a 500mm lens, i'd put it on a gitzo. i cant say about the sidekick. never seen one. but i do like my mongoose.

i'm sure others will chime in with more info. i can only say that i have bought cheap tripods before only to buy a gitzo later. dont waste your money on something that is not going to work!!!!

Thanks Harold, that is exactly what i was worried about. Eveyone I know that owns a Gitzo has had it for several years...seems like other brands don't hold up for some reason

I have been using a Gitzo 3540 LS for a few years and love it. I believe they updated it a year or so ago with a better plate. I use mine with a 500 f4, pro body and flash set up on Sidekick. I find the 4 section model is very stable and folds down well for travelling.

If you are going to be working in wet areas you might consider a wooden tripod such as a Reis or Berlebach. Also, some of the large format photographers seem to like Feisol.

Hi Kurt Would go with the Gitzo tripod and the Mongoose 3.5 head. The new design works so well I don't use my full Wimberly any more at all !!! Weight is just over a pound and the flash bracket is only small !!

Thanks Alfred. A couple of questions. Which model Gitzo are you using? I was looking at the Gitzo GT5541LS
Is that overkill? Also, does the Mongoose offer a quick release plate?

the support system i bought for the 500mm f/4 is:

Benro C-358n6 Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs
Manfrotto 393 Heavy Duty Gimbal Type Head

Purchased from B&H or Adorama (forget which). I've used it for a year now, no problems. It was recommended to me by a few local guys using the setup for 2-3 years now, and happily so.

I use the Gitzo 5541LS and recommend it for ultimate stability.
It's the Rock of Gibraltar.
Just a little less weighty. :D
I don't recommend it for long trail hiking, unless you are very fit, or are willing to stop and rest a lot.

Hi Kurt I use the 3530 LS Any from that series will work fine !!! The one Bill used is about the most stable but it is massive !!!

Before the new models came out I did use it with the 600 lens but I don't think there is much need any more. Even the new one with the extra leg section seems very stable which was not the case with the 1325 series !!

I use the Gitzo 3531S with a RRS BH-55 Ballhead and a wimberly sidekick. I have padded the upper legs ad use Arties Shoulder Saver Tripod PadShoulder Saver Tripod Pad saves my shoulders

I am using the 3541LS with a Jobu BWHD gimbal for my 500mm/1D3 combination. Excellent stability, great height for my 5'10", when setup at bout 3" below maximum height it is at eye level for me. Taking it to max height can make higher flight or static shots easier on the back.

Look to the height and weight limits of the tripods available to make the best fit for your situation, the right height will really a tripod easier and more comfortable to use in many situtations.

I have tried and bought several of the cheaper tripods over the years and while most will do the easy stuff, if the job gets tough they always failed one way or another. I'd have saved considerable if I had just spent it upfront to get the best that wouldn't fail in the field, they never break at home do they?

Good luck in your search and congrats on the new glass in your future you will love it.

Thanks everyone! Brad, thanks for the input on the height and weight....it is very important to me, because I had back surgery 3 months ago. I am about the same height at 5'11"

I just bought a Wimberley II head for my 500 f4. My next step is to upgrade to a sturdy tripod. From what I have seen, it looks like the Gitzo is the best option for manufacturers. I hear you about the price tag. I have read on the Gitzo site (I think) that aluminum tripods are as sturdy as the new carbon fiber ones, but a little heavier. That leads me to the GT 2331 of GT3330. They both have 3 section legs. The 23 series supports a maximum load of ~20# and the 33 series a load of ~40#. I take a consensus from the above thread, that the rigidity of the 40# tripods is very desirable for long lens work. At B&H the GT3330 sells for $499, compared with the GT3530 for $899.

I would be interested in what other long lens birders think of the above analysis.

Jim

Gitzo GT3530LS w/Wimberley II is a magnificent combo as recommended by the gurugi, Artie Morris. I'm 6' tall and I love this combo. I also have a carbon fiber Feisol, the CT3031 for smaller telephotos and I find the lack of the G-lock legs to be a pain in the ^%$!!!!! G-Lock sounds like a gimic but it is absolutely necessary, especially in cold weather, as far as I'm concerned. As far as the full Wimberley, I think it is the best piece of gear I've ever purchased for photography.

Kurt, what did you end up buying?

I got the Induro C414, Arca Swiss V1 and Sidekick. Luckily for me, Denver Pro Photo carries Gitzo, Manfrotto and Induro, so I could handle all the tripods before buying.

Dave