Bogen 3021, 3221 tripods

[netadmin22]

I am in the market for a tripod and would appreciate some discussion from those who know. This tripod would be used primarily for wildlife and nature along hiking trails.

Thanks

[IanD]

I am currently using a Manfrotto 190 Nat3 which i believe is the same as the Bogen 3221. Super tripod. Nice thing is the green color, sort of blends nicely in with the bushs I usually hide in :)
The Nat3 comes with retractable spike feet which are really handy in obtaining a solid footing. The foam sleeves are nice to hold on to in the cold and make the tripod easy to carry.
It is a fairly light model and is very compact when folded.
I put a Manfrotto 486RC2 ball head on it (quick release plate model) and neither has ever failed.
You might want to look at a mono pod as well. The mono is great at giving just that little extra support and doesn'y weigh much. Put the same ball head on and you have a great combo. Bonus with the monopod is that it makes a great walking stick as well.
Ian

[SWPhotoImaging]

I just bought the Manfrotto (Bogen) 3021Pro with a 3028 super 3D head. Got it from B&H for a total package price of $168.

This is a very sturdy and heavy-duty tripod, the head is very adjustable (not quite a ball head, but . . .), and the center pole can be removed and slipped in horizontally, allowing for downward shots, or upside down, for low-level shots.

The leg extension clamps are very positive click and rock solid. Quick and easy to operate.

It's maximum height is high enough that I had to climb on a chair to shoot down onto a table-top scene I was photographing (about 6' to the top, when fully extended).

The only drawback I can see to this tripod is it's weight, which I think is around 12lbs. On a long hike, this could get annoying unless you have a good carrying system.