Lightest tripod

[OviV]

What is the lightest yet sturdy tripod out there that won't break the bank? I know, tall order.

Ovi

[gramps]

the Manfrotto 3444d might be one to look at............I have no regrets about mine. about 3 1/2 lbs.

[robertwgross]

What is the lightest yet sturdy tripod out there that won't break the bank?

How big is your bank?

Lots of people bend over backwards to get a super light tripod, but then they defeat it by getting a heavy head for it.

By the same token, you can find a super light tripod, but then you have to make sure it has a big hook underneath for hanging a ballast bag.

---Bob Gross---

[OviV]

Bob, after my recent lens purchases my bank is about this big:

http://www.expatica.com/xpat/xpatsite/www/upload_pix/piggy-bank.jpg

It does not have to be superlight. 4-5 lbs is o.k. The one Gramps listed is definitely too much money for me right now.

[robertwgross]

Like I have stated previously, I have some unique requirements on tripods. As a result, I use a Sunpak 8001UT. First of all, I have to state that I liked it enough that I bought a second one. I use the pretty one for weddings, and I use the scratched up one for nature photography.

The thing weighs slightly over three pounds. That includes a tilt-swivel head with quick release. I know some don't like a head like that, but I've gotten used to it. When I am out hiking, I carry the bare tripod in my left hand. If I am backpacking, then the tripod bottom goes into a pocket on the side of the pack. Flip levers on the legs.

My 100-400 lens keeps one of the quick release mounts on it. In fact, that combination is how I have done probably 95% of all of my photography over the last few months. Mostly birds smaller than your eagles.

The crazy thing about the tripod is that its cost was only $40. For that price, I can throw them away every couple of years and still beat the cost of an expensive one.

---Bob Gross---