Questions on my Manfrotto 055xPro3

[NancyMoranG]

Took the plunge on my 1st good tripod. Yes it's beefy and sturdy. But...the legs are hard to pull open. I am having to pull against the center column to get the leg open. And if I open it to (example) 37 degrees, but then want to go to 58degrees, I have to put it all the way back in and hold button in 1 motion out to 58 degrees. However, since they are hard to open, I can't do it in 1 motion. So it takes me a few tries to get 1 leg to my desired position ??

i realize it just may take practice, but curious if Vanguards or others let you just go from 37 degrees out to 58 without going back to starting position ?
I hope that makes sense to someone?
Nancy

 

[SnappingShark]

Vanguards have the same issue, but because they're lighter than the 055, they're a little easier IMHO.

Vanguards also don't require you to go ALL the way back in - at least not on mine. In fact, the Manfrotto only requires a little inwards motion, a press of the lever and then pull out.

 

[NancyMoranG]

Either I have weak thumbs or the weight is too much for me without having enough practice?
Nancy

 

[Big Mike]

Maybe it's just a little stiff because it's new? You could try to lubricate the hinge.

 

[NancyMoranG]

Yes, I was allowing that as the reason. My husband offered to lube it. However, I may return it and did not want to lube it just in case.
The 1st time I used the 90 degree column, it made a couple of scratches on the center column. Emailed B&H and they offered to replace it. I am going to camera club tonight and will ask folks. I am just worried it will rust in those spots?
Nancy

 

[tirediron]

Are you pushing the leg(s) back toward the centre column slightly before you depress the catch to move it out farther?

 

[NancyMoranG]

No. The legs are pretty closed though. I slip or such Holding the button through to 90 degrees, and have to start over.
N

 

[lambertpix]

Are you pushing the leg(s) back toward the centre column slightly before you depress the catch to move it out farther?

I've found with mine that just a little nudge like tirediron suggests is enough to release that catch. When the tripod has any load on it at all, however, this can be tricky. This is one of the few design niggles I've got with my Manfrotto, in fact.

 

[NancyMoranG]

Ok will practice that. Are there other designs that don't have that 'niggle' ?
N

 

[lambertpix]

Ok will practice that. Are there other designs that don't have that 'niggle' ?
N

I've got an Induro with a catch that's just a bit less "catchy" -- it's a much more linear shoulder (pic below), as well as a cheap-ish Dolica with a design much like the Induro. Neither one of those tripods holds a candle to the Manfrotto in other respects, though, so I'm willing to live with that one little niggle.

 

[SnappingShark]

Perhaps try the Manfrotto 190CXPRO4 or something - it's not as heavy, and might be easier for you to use.
The 055 is pretty heavy, to be honest.

 

[NancyMoranG]

This is why I like a sticks and brick store!
I will look up the 190, thanks. When researching It seemed my model held @ 17 lbs, had 4 angle positions as compared to a lot of 3 angle models, and of course the 90 degree center column.
i have found a camera store 30 miles away and have been in there recently getting filter holder and adjustment rings. They had a Vanguard. Maybe I will check that out today.
Nancy

 

[NancyMoranG]

Ok thanks guys. Had hubby look at it along with this post. He is the analytical one, I am 'hands in the air, roller coaster' kind of gal.

He showed me I DON'T have to go ALL the way back in, just a speck, then pull out again, as you guys noted. I just didn't understand exactly what you all meant.
it is still hard for me to open, but asking my camera club tonight.
thanks all.
Nancy