Rugged Tripod Suggustions?

[Big Mike]

You know. Unless you're shooting with circa 1965 8x10 monorail, a $600+ tripod is going to be WAY overkill.

I don't think this is always true.

Yeah. I just kind of assumed that these legs were rated at like 50lb too.

I'm not sure what to make of this though. They're only rated at 8.8lb - at $1000, I'd hope that is conservative. I'm sure though the other features are great.

One thing to be aware of, is that there really isn't much of a standard in terms of tripod or head weight ratings.

 

[unpopular]

as far as that goes, I think head choice makes a much bigger difference than legs, provided we're not talking a like the Sunpaks at Bestbuy.

I have no doubt that I could be wrong.

 

[analog.universe]

I don't think this is always true.

Yeah. I just kind of assumed that these legs were rated at like 50lb too.

I'm not sure what to make of this though. They're only rated at 8.8lb - at $1000, I'd hope that is conservative. I'm sure though the other features are great.

One thing to be aware of, is that there really isn't much of a standard in terms of tripod or head weight ratings.

This is true. I read an interesting article on I think the Markins website (head manufacturer), about how resistance to torque is more important a measure than weight capacity anyway. You want to make sure the legs can't twist or flex under an unbalanced heavy lens, or on a windy day.

The one advantage though, to legs rated at say 50lb, is that you can hang your gear bag from the center column to increase stability. I don't think those manufacturers expect people to put a 50lb camera on it, but an 10lb camera with 40lbs of ballast is a really stable setup.

 

[unpopular]

for the record. I used to lug something like this around ... in the snow:

MAJESTIC Tripod Model 2000 w Model 1200 Head for Telescope or Lg Format Camera | eBay

:lmao:

 

[spacefuzz]

Interesting discussion, and thanks for that article Big Mike. Nice to know I'm not the only one to buy a crud tripod.

 

[spacefuzz]

Well I got the Ocean Traveller. Sturdy and light. Will be trying it out in the back country of Zion this weekend.

 

[colintrax]

Not trying to hijack this thread, but has anyone else built one? Or atleast know where to buy the telescoping legs by themselves?

 

[unpopular]

Not trying to hijack this thread, but has anyone else built one? Or atleast know where to buy the telescoping legs by themselves?

take a look at how old wooden tripods were assembled, this is prob a much better option for DIYers.

 

[colintrax]

Wooden?
I don't really have the equipment to make the legs, not to mention it's probably not worth the cost. But with access to lathes, mills, tig welders, plasma cutter, and drill presses I shouldn't have any problem making the rest. Just no sense in making the head, and other attachments if theres no legs to put it on.

 

[unpopular]

No. You have everything you need.

Amazon.com: Berlebach Report 8023 3-Section Wood Tripod with Center Column (Natural Finish): Camera & Photo

and don't laugh. I'd use a Berlebach any day.

 

[ottor]

Here's one to review if you want... Just over $800, but it's the same one that Peter Lik uses on his show, and you know what kind of crap he get's into... Sz he's had this one for over 2 years and is his favorite..

Gitzo Series 5 - GIGT5541LS - Legs only.. Amazon.com: Gitzo GT5541LS Series 5 Long 6X Carbon Fiber 4-Section Systematic Tripod with G-Lcok - Replaces GT5540LS: Camera & Photo

 

[sdrphotography]

If you have the money then it's always bet to get a strong sturdy tripod - however if the budget doesn't allow it you can always attach heavy objects to a cheaper version (so long as you're not moving around much). Attach a bag with a couple of rocks underneath the tripod head - that will keep it in place.