Bogen 3021BN vs 3021B PRO

[franklinn]

So i'm contemplating picking up a Bogen/Manfrotto tripod+head, highly recommended by two of my friends.

Searched up the recommended tripod+head model, and found these (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?A=search&Q=&a=522_4343&a=523_5961&mnp=0.0&mxp=0.0&cmpsrch=&cltp=&clsgr=&shs=&ci=5138&ac=&Submit.x=9&Submit.y=10&Submit=Go) on B&H. But I have no idea what the differences are between the 3021BN and the 3021B PRO tripod (the head model is the same on each tripod+head combination). Just a difference of a few bucks, but what are the differences between the tripods? Which should I opt for?

Darn these subtle differences that are completely oblivious to a rookie such as myself, lol.

Thank you kindly,

Frank

[Wilt]

If you mostly shoot scenics and group portraits, the 3021BN is fine. If you like to get really low to the ground to shoot closeups of flowers, insects, etc. the Pro is better suited but you can do it (less conveniently) with the BN

[SkipD]

The difference is primarily in the center column and the ways it can be used.

With the 3021BPro, the center column can be removed and mounted horizontally on the legs. That feature adds tremendous versatility to the way the tripod can be used. The 3021BN only has a conventionally mounted center column.

The center column of the 3021BPro can also be disassembled, leaving a very short center column so that the tripod can have its legs splayed out horizontally and support the camera only inches above the ground.

My choice for an every-day tripod is the 3021BPro topped off with a 488RC2 ball head. This combination, with a "long strap" kit, is extremely versatile, easy to pack, easy to carry across your back when hiking, and is plenty strong and sturdy enough for most applications.

[franklinn]

wow thanks for the clarification both of you.

I definitely would love to have the ability to shoot from close to ground areas, and now i'm certain the 3021B PRO is my choice for a tripod.

Thanks again :)

[Mike_Canon5D]

I got my 3021B Pro about 2 months ago and it really is awesome. You will definitively enjoy it.

[sjafari]

You can remove the center column on the 3021BN as well, allowing the legs to be opened up completely and getting the tripod a few inches off the ground.. you just cant mount the center column horizontally like the Pro version. I agree with Skip's recommendation of the 488RC2 ballhead.

[franklinn]

I'm definitely picking up that 488RC2 ballhead ;)

[barrettbonden]

The difference is primarily in the center column and the ways it can be used.

My choice for an every-day tripod is the 3021BPro topped off with a 488RC2 ball head. This combination, with a "long strap" kit, is extremely versatile, easy to pack, easy to carry across your back when hiking, and is plenty strong and sturdy enough for most applications.

the reyes magos finally brought me this combination based on Skip's advice and I like it!