I just ordered this setup, would like experieced birders to give opinions

[ClarkinBabler]

posted in accessory catagory, but I wanted birders to let me know what you think. I bought for the long term, as this is my first tripod and head. Only thing I plan to add in the future is a wimberly sidekick. Shooting a 40d with a 100-400, upgrading to a 500mm in the next year or so

Thanks in advance!

Clark

Legs - Gitzo GT3541L Series 3 Carbon 6x Long 4 Section G-Lock Tripod

Head - Acratech GV2 Ballhead with Gimbal Feature, with all Rubber Knobs, Quick Release & Detent Pin with quick release plate

Bag - Tamrac 5770 Velocity 10x Pro Sling

Misc - Opteka Wireless Radio Remote Release

[C4Miles]

That will be a very nice tripod and head set-up. I'm guessing you're gearing up for when you get the 500, as this is plenty of support for the 100-400. A good monopod for the zoom wouldn't be a bad idea either, I use one all the time for the 400 prime.

[highcountry]

NICE! You should be very happy with that setup. I have used a Gitzo 1325 and Arca Swiss B1, and when I use my 500mm, a Sidekick. I am very happy with my setup and yours pretty much comparable.

[ClarkinBabler]

I bought for the future, so hopefully I wont need to do this again (famous last words, right) I am so anxious to shoot with a tripod as I know, although differant challenges will occur, my shot clarity should increase

Thanks for the positive comments

[Hawkman]

Similar setup too: AS-B1, sidekick, Gitzo 1325 + 500/4.

This is a rock solid setup for the 500. Things you have to watch:

1. Withthe sidekick, the lens foot goes sideways and the lens isn't centered over the ballhead with the standard foot. This puts stress and wear on your ballhead panning base. You may want to get a shorter replacement foot that will center the lens over the ballhead better.

2. You lock the sidekick on the ballhead by sliding it down into the vertical shooting slot of the ballhead and tighten it in place with the ballhead friction knob. You must keep this fully tightened, or your whole rig may topple over. The friction knob can been loosened when carrying the rig over your shoulder (the kbob rubbing against your shoulder) so you have to be careful.

The two above is why I would buy a full Wimberly if I had to do it over again.

3. Three section legs are more rigid than 4. A non-elevating flat base is more rigid than a base that you can elevate.

- Gene