Long lens supports?

I've recently seen a couple of photographers with super telephotos using a RRS long lens support rail device. When questioned about it, they each said that it added a significant measure of stability to the lens since the lens is supported both at the mounting foot as well as a small roller at the front of the lens. Both lenses were mounted on this rail which was again mounted to a large ball head.

Do any of you have experience with one of these? Is it worthwhile or just another way for manufacturers to relieve us of our hard-earned cash?

Thanks...

Chris,
I raised a similar question on the RRS support some while ago but I cannot locate the thread at the moment.
Very few members replied and, as far as I can remember, nobody had used one. One person had a similar device from a different maker.
If I can find the thread I will let you know.
I was tempted to buy one but decided not to until I could find a good review.
Dave Hassell.

Chris,

Good question, I will ask Al to respond - I have nothing.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Dave Hassell

Chris,
I raised a similar question on the RRS support some while ago but I cannot locate the thread at the moment.
Very few members replied and, as far as I can remember, nobody had used one. One person had a similar device from a different maker.
If I can find the thread I will let you know.
I was tempted to buy one but decided not to until I could find a good review.
Dave Hassell.

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Dave -

Yes, I believe that Manfrotto made something similar although nowhere near the quality that RRS does. I think I'll pose the question on FM as well...

Chris

The device was originally made for the Canon 600 lens, it does not have bearings like the 500 and its hard to twist. Support wise I'm sure it would help some but do not think it is worth the effort. Saw the first many years ago at Bosque !

Yes, the RRS Long Lens Support works very well...helping you to stabilize your 500/600/800 when shooting at slower shutter speeds.

Chas

Thank you all for your responses!

... Now I'm going to throw a "curve" into the mix: my longest lens is the very lightweight 400mm f4 DO which I use more often than not with a Canon 1.4x and occasionally with a Canon 2x (in manual focus). Sometimes the weight of the lens is a detriment to my photography, and am wondering whether the addition of the support will help with "my" lens.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Chris Brennan

Thank you all for your responses!

... Now I'm going to throw a "curve" into the mix: my longest lens is the very lightweight 400mm f4 DO which I use more often than not with a Canon 1.4x and occasionally with a Canon 2x (in manual focus). Sometimes the weight of the lens is a detriment to my photography, and am wondering whether the addition of the support will help with "my" lens.

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Not really necessary with the short 400 DO.

Chas

Hello Chris,
My original thread can be seen at: -

http://www.birdphotographers.net/for...ad.php?t=36271

I have not bought one yet.

Dave Hassell.