Velbon MAXi 343E

[condyk]

I need a super light/small tripod and am considering the Velbon MAXi 343E with the B&S Head. Any experiences of this item to share, or alternatives, welcome? I don't want to spend lots for 'the best' as I know it's not something I'll use much. I just want one that does the job well in most conditions.

[Bruce Watson]

I need a super light/small tripod and am considering the Velbon MAXi 343E with the B&S Head. Any experiences of this item to share, or alternatives, welcome? I don't want to spend lots for 'the best' as I know it's not something I'll use much. I just want one that does the job well in most conditions.

I bought one and can say that it is very light. But, it is also flimsy and the leg locks are fragile.

Look at one in a camera store before buying, or make sure you have return rights if you buy online.

The alternatives are much more expensive, so it may be an okay value.

[CoolToolGuy]

I had one. I used it twice - once in extreme conditions. Neither experience was positive.

Remember this is a lightweight tripod for travel and compactness.

The first time I used it was on an ocean beach during sunrise. The wind was blowing so hard the legs were vibrating and causing the camera (Drebel with 24-70 L) to vibrate. I wanted to use the cable release to minimize camera shake, but I had to hold the camera by hand to keep it still.

The second time was in a theater environment where I was taking posed pictures of the cast. I had the column of the tripod extended, and every time I zoomed the column would sway. Again, I had to steady the camera by hand.

I sold it. With a lighter combination it may serve you well, and if size and weight are your main issues you can probably get by with it.

Have Fun,

[wintoid]

I have one which I got for £30 on eBay. I very rarely take tripod shots, but when I do I enjoy using my 343E. I avoid raising the centre column where possible as it's definitely less stable. I also tend to use only the top 2 of the 3 leg sections. It's been absolutely fine for supporting my 20D + Tamron 28-75 or Canon 85mm f/1.8, which are both fairly small lenses. I've only used it indoors.

[condyk]

The lightness really appeals, but the lack of stability mentioned doesn't!

I will be using it with 300D and, ultimately, Sigma 70-200 f2.8 and Sigma 2x extender (or equiv. Canon combo). This may just be a tad too top heavy: as I will also be using it mainly 'in the bush', where ground is not necessarily level, then I think I'm better looking at something else. Any ideas ... light, small(ish) and stable?

[TammieO]

It's okay with my Sony f717, but wouldn't trust much more weight on it.