Travel tripod

[Tvw]

At this time I have a flimsy Vanguard tripod that is no good.
I'm not a tripod user. I rarely use one only for waterfall and night / sunset photography. This kind of photography is mainly done when I'm traveling. I always bring the Vanguard tripod (weight is 1kg).

I like a better quality tripod without braking the bank (as I don't a tripod very often).
Of course I've looked at the different reviews. The max price range I'm considering is about €250,- (tripod + head). A tripod like the Manfrotto 055xprob + 488RC2 seems very nice but it's FAR to heavy at 3kg+.
Feisol tripods look nice (from the website) but are still expensive for me (like the CT-3441SB + CB-30C is still €370,-).

I am about 1m 87cm and my travel gear is 40D, Sigma 10-20, Canon 24-105 and Canon 70-200 F4IS.

Any other ideas (without overspending)?

[gryphonslair99]

At this time I have a flimsy Vanguard tripod that is no good.
I'm not a tripod user. I rarely use one only for waterfall and night / sunset photography. This kind of photography is mainly done when I'm traveling. I always bring the Vanguard tripod (weight is 1kg).

I like a better quality tripod without braking the bank (as I don't a tripod very often).
Of course I've looked at the different reviews. The max price range I'm considering is about €250,- (tripod + head). A tripod like the Manfrotto 055xprob + 488RC2 seems very nice but it's FAR to heavy at 3kg+.
Feisol tripods look nice (from the website) but are still expensive for me (like the CT-3441SB + CB-30C is still €370,-).

I am about 1m 87cm and my travel gear is 40D, Sigma 10-20, Canon 24-105 and Canon 70-200 F4IS.

Any other ideas (without overspending)?


Buying a tripod is like a trip to a Chinese restaurant. You can only pick two of the following three.

Cheap

Sturdy

Light

Now you have to decide which two you want and which one doesn't make it into the mix. :)

[Tvw]

Buying a tripod is like a trip to a Chinese restaurant. You can only pick two of the following three.

Cheap

Sturdy

Light

Now you have to decide which two you want and which one doesn't make it into the mix. :)

For my purposes €250,- isn't cheap.
I would like a cheap, sturdy and lightweight tripod for a reasonable price. That isn't to much asked, is it? :p

[Headshotzx]

Benro Travel Angel (:

[ed rader]

For my purposes €250,- isn't cheap.
I would like a cheap, sturdy and lightweight tripod for a reasonable price. That isn't to much asked, is it? :p


this is one of the few places you'll come to where a $500 tripod that you'll hardly ever use is considered cheap.

take a look at the benro travel tripods.

ed rader

[i_am_hydrogen]

I just purchased a tripod with those exact specifications. I got sick of lugging around a heavy tripod when taking night photos around the city.

Take a look at this one:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/602427-REG/Manfrotto_by_Bogen_Imaging_7321YB_7321YB_4_Section _Aluminum_Tripod.html

I would highly recommend it. Extremely lightweight, compact (folded down it's around 20 inches long), solidly built (supports my 5D and 70-200mm), and very cheap.

[gryphonslair99]

For my purposes €250,- isn't cheap.
I would like a cheap, sturdy and lightweight tripod for a reasonable price. That isn't to much asked, is it? :p

In the world of photography, yes. Sadly.

This looks like about the best in your price range that meets your specifications.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/584212-REG/Benro_456_068_C_068M8_Travel_Angel_Carbon.html

[Tvw]

Thanks guys!
I'm taking a look at the Benro Travel tripods.

Any idea how the Benro Travel tripods compare to the Feisol CT-3441S quality wise? What about the quality of the ballheads?

Thanks!

[tvphotog]

There are Feisol users here who love them. Not a long track record for this brand, though. If you're going to spend in that range and the tripod fails, you're out a lot of money.

I have a Gitzo 1541t, and I love it, but it's even more than the Feisol. But it has a pedigree, and I expect it to last a long time. Made in Italy, the Benro in China; this is not a criticism, just information for you.

Here's a review of the Gitzo fyi. http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=538298

Do a search and you can find reviews of the Feisol and the Benro.

Caveat emptor.

[justrussfm]

I recently reviewed the Benro C-068m8 Travel Angel. I love mine, and it sounds perfect for your needs. Lighter than the Feisol, but the Benro 0-series, which is lighter, is definitely not as stable as a Feisol 3441s (which has larger diameter legs). Keep in mind the Benro has anti-rotation locks on the legs, while the Feisol does not. This was a make or break feature for me... because it significantly speeds up setting up and taking down the tripod.

You might consider a 1-series Benro or the Feisol (if rotating legs is OK for you).

[oak3x]

Use my FEISOL CT-3442 for airplane travel and love it. Carbon Fiber, fold small and extends to 50"+

Matched with my Markin Ballhead...the combo is perfect

[mobilebucky]

I have the Benro C-169m8 Travel Angel tripod. I bought it when I was in Hong Kong back in 2007. It is pretty good tripod, small enough to fit in my roller-board (1 of my requirements), is light weight, although it is a 5 section tripod, I rarely use the full extension to improve stability. I use it on my 5D with grip usually with my fisheye or 24-105mm and I use either the RRS BH40 or RRS pano head package on it. On a windy day you definitely need something to hold the tripod down. Also, the twist lock is not as nice as the Gitzo one, but I am paying 1/3 of the Gitzo tripod, that should be expected. Overall, I am happy with it.

[Tvw]

Thanks for the replies guys, this is really appreciated!

I'm looking into the Benro tripods. The thing that puts me down a little is the (quite low) maximum height. I'm 1m 87cm and the TRCB068 (€229,-) is 'just' 134cm.
The Feisol CT-3441S (€278,-) is 178cm at the max.

There's also something like the Gitzo GT1931 (€239,-) which is heavier at 1.4kg and has a max height of 168cm.

Difficult...

[Tvw]

Thanks for the replies guys, this is really appreciated!

I'm looking into the Benro tripods. The thing that puts me down a little is the (quite low) maximum height. I'm 1m 87cm and the TRCB068 (€229,-) is 'just' 134cm.
The Feisol CT-3441S (€278,-) is 178cm at the max.

There's also something like the Gitzo GT1931 (€239,-) which is heavier at 1.4kg and has a max height of 168cm.

Difficult...

Any advice on the post above here?

Thanks.

[tvphotog]

Any advice on the post above here?

Thanks.

Think of it this way. You carry the tripod with you for a longer time than you must bend over to shoot. IMO, what you want is light weight and a short compressed length.

Hope that helps.

[wickerprints]

Is the head on the Benro interchangeable? B&H didn't say anything about this. ???

And is that weight correct?! 1.8 pounds? :shock:

[justrussfm]

Yes, the head is interchangeable. The Benro Travel Angels are LIGHT.

[wickerprints]

Presently I am trying really, REALLY hard not to drop coin on the TRCB-068.

Lens money > tripod. *sigh*

[Dave-F]

My tripod never went with me when travelling to distant lands for the simple reason, it was too heavy. After a lot of web browsing and researching, I opted for the Manfrotto CXPRO4 with 808RC4 head which arrived this morning.

[justrussfm]

The Benro is really holding its own. So light. I recently brought it on a weekend trip, and even made a few images with the legs partially submerged in a lively stream:

http://photos.russjuskalian.com/2009/08/02/2.JPG

http://photos.russjuskalian.com/2009/08/03/2.JPG

I believe the first is 5D + Oly 24mm f/2.8, and the second with 35L + CPL.

[wickerprints]

What are you doing to me!!!!

Please stop tempting me, I really, REALLY shouldn't be spending $400 on a new tripod. But 1.8 pounds....with the ballhead....it's sitting in my shopping cart as I type....

Excuse me while I wipe the drool from my trackpad. :p

[tvphotog]

What are you doing to me!!!!

Please stop tempting me, I really, REALLY shouldn't be spending $400 on a new tripod. But 1.8 pounds....with the ballhead....it's sitting in my shopping cart as I type....

Excuse me while I wipe the drool from my trackpad. :p

I carried my 1541t with the Markins Q3t on my pack all across France and got some great shots that I would have missed if I had to think twice about carrying a heavier tripod.

[wickerprints]

I lasted one week. The seductive call of the Travel Angel beckoned to me...the feather-light weight of 1.8 pounds proved too irresistible and I pulled the trigger.

Even I have limits. Guess the 15/2.8 fisheye will have to wait. And the extension tubes, and the 1.4x TC, and the 100/2.8 macro, and the reflectors and umbrellas and stands... and the 300/2.8L IS... :p

[Tvw]

I lasted one week. The seductive call of the Travel Angel beckoned to me...the feather-light weight of 1.8 pounds proved too irresistible and I pulled the trigger.

Even I have limits. Guess the 15/2.8 fisheye will have to wait. And the extension tubes, and the 1.4x TC, and the 100/2.8 macro, and the reflectors and umbrellas and stands... and the 300/2.8L IS... :p

Well how do you like it? And which one did you buy? ;)

[phidailo]

I really like the benro until I saw the price. Have to save up for that one!

[Tvw]

What about the aluminum version of the Travel Angel (it's much cheaper and not much heavier)?
Does anyone have experience with that?

C-168m8: Carbon, 4 sections, 1.29kg, max load 8kg, €330,-.
A-168m8: Aluminum, 4 sections, 1.48kg, max load 8kg, €175,-

Seems like a huge price difference for not even 200 grams lighter weight!

[justrussfm]

What about the aluminum version of the Travel Angel (it's much cheaper and not much heavier)?
Does anyone have experience with that?

C-168m8: Carbon, 4 sections, 1.29kg, max load 8kg, €330,-.
A-168m8: Aluminum, 4 sections, 1.48kg, max load 8kg, €175,-

Seems like a huge price difference for not even 200 grams lighter weight!

If you need to go ultra-light, than 200 grams counts. But yes, it's like most things: diminishing returns... the last 10% is gonna cost you. If you don't need to go that light, the Aluminum is worth considering.

Another point: Carbon Fiber is supposed to dampen vibrations better than aluminum, and the weights listed by Benro-- or any other tripod/head maker-- aren't very useful. I haven't compared the two, but something to think about.

For my uses, the CF version was well worth the cost. Hell, I would have considered spending considerably more on a Gitzo 0-series Traveler w/ 4 leg sections.... if Gitzo made one (though, I may just as well have bought the Benro anyway-- depending on comparing the two).

[Mark II]

All I know is that I hate the twist lock on the legs. Gotta have the "flip levers".

[wickerprints]

Well how do you like it? And which one did you buy? ;)

Well, I don't know how I like it yet, because it hasn't arrived...

It's the 1.8 pound, 4-section one. Carbon fiber. Don't have the model number handy. I had to get the lightest possible tripod that was still reasonably sturdy. I'm not going to carry an extra pound or half pound when I'm out hiking. Twist legs are annoying, true, but I'm not in a huge hurry for setup.

I decided if I want, I could always get a second, heavier tripod for studio shots or when I don't need to worry about weight. I already have a Manfrotto aluminum pod but it's not as sturdy as I'd like, and the locking mechanism is really old skool, difficult to tighten well without overtightening.

[Tvw]

If you need to go ultra-light, than 200 grams counts. But yes, it's like most things: diminishing returns... the last 10% is gonna cost you. If you don't need to go that light, the Aluminum is worth considering.

Another point: Carbon Fiber is supposed to dampen vibrations better than aluminum, and the weights listed by Benro-- or any other tripod/head maker-- aren't very useful. I haven't compared the two, but something to think about.

For my uses, the CF version was well worth the cost. Hell, I would have considered spending considerably more on a Gitzo 0-series Traveler w/ 4 leg sections.... if Gitzo made one (though, I may just as well have bought the Benro anyway-- depending on comparing the two).

I still consider < 1.5kg as light, so the aluminum version looks very tempting. I have also heard about the vibrations which are supposed to be dampen better with carbon fiber. Not sure how big the difference will be.

[Tvw]

Well, I don't know how I like it yet, because it hasn't arrived...

It's the 1.8 pound, 4-section one. Carbon fiber. Don't have the model number handy. I had to get the lightest possible tripod that was still reasonably sturdy. I'm not going to carry an extra pound or half pound when I'm out hiking. Twist legs are annoying, true, but I'm not in a huge hurry for setup.

I decided if I want, I could always get a second, heavier tripod for studio shots or when I don't need to worry about weight. I already have a Manfrotto aluminum pod but it's not as sturdy as I'd like, and the locking mechanism is really old skool, difficult to tighten well without overtightening.

I'm interested in your opinion when it arrives. Of course I also want a light setup, but not at all costs.
Half the price for less than 200 grams of weight is something I'm looking into. Seems like a very interesting option.

[tvphotog]

All I know is that I hate the twist lock on the legs. Gotta have the "flip levers".

I don't agree at all. I've had both and the twist locks are faster.

[sjlund]

I'm expecting my Benro 068 to be delivered by the big brown truck this afternoon!

[Tvw]

I'm expecting my Benro 068 to be delivered by the big brown truck this afternoon!

Is that the carbon or aluminum version?
Did you consider the aluminum version?

[sjlund]

I chose the carbon fiber version. According to the Benro website the aluminum version has a load capacity of 5.5 pounds while the CF version can hold 13.2 pounds. 5.5 pounds is not enough for me.

[wickerprints]

That's the same one I ordered. But mine's not going to arrive for another several days... :(

[Tvw]

I chose the carbon fiber version. According to the Benro website the aluminum version has a load capacity of 5.5 pounds while the CF version can hold 13.2 pounds. 5.5 pounds is not enough for me.

Okay, I can see that the TRA068 can hold 2.5kg and the TRCB068 6kg according to the benro.com website.
I'm looking at the Dutch website and comparing the A-168m8 (http://www.benrobv.nl/camerastatief/TRIPODS/aluminium-travel-tripod-kit-m8.html) which can hold 8 kg compared to the twice as expensive C-168m8 which can also hold 8kg (http://www.benrobv.nl/camerastatief/TRIPODS/carbon-travel-tripod-kit-m8.html).

[lilminijpc]

It's the 1.8 pound, 4-section one. Carbon fiber. Don't have the model number handy. I had to get the lightest possible tripod that was still reasonably sturdy. I'm not going to carry an extra pound or half pound when I'm out hiking. Twist legs are annoying, true, but I'm not in a huge hurry for setup.

I ordered the same one and waiting for it also. :) My only concern for it would be the stability of it. For me I was torn between the: C-169M8 (holds 17.6lbs, but weighs 2.8Lbs) vs. the C-069 (holds 13.6lbs, but weighs 1.8lbs). I finally settled on the lighter one because from experience, after hiking up a mountain for 3hrs, the trip down (another 3hrs) is usually pretty brutal and having that extra lb on tripod will make a difference...:(

[Tvw]

I chose the carbon fiber version. According to the Benro website the aluminum version has a load capacity of 5.5 pounds while the CF version can hold 13.2 pounds. 5.5 pounds is not enough for me.

Info according to BHphoto

Benro A-168M8
General

Load Capacity
17.6 lbs (8kg)
Head Attachment Fitting
1/4"-20 & 3/8" (reversible stud)
Maximum Height
55.9" (141.9cm)
Maximum Height w/o Column Extended
47" (119.4cm)
Minimum Height
15.6" (39.8cm)
Folded Length
15.6" (39.8cm)
Weight
3.2 lbs (1.440kg)

Benro C-168M8
General

Load Capacity
17.6 lbs (8kg)
Head Attachment Fitting
1/4"-20 & 3/8" (reversible stud)
Maximum Height
55.8" (141.9cm)
Maximum Height w/o Column Extended
47" (119.4cm)
Minimum Height
15.7" (39.8cm)
Folded Length
15.7" (39.8cm)
Weight
2.8 lbs (1.270kg)

[justrussfm]

Just hope none of you who ordered the 0-series is expecting to use any long or heavy lenses on it.

[wickerprints]

Just hope none of you who ordered the 0-series is expecting to use any long or heavy lenses on it.

I'm going to put a $600 Wimberley gimbal head on it and going to go birding with my 400/2.8L IS + 2x TC. Why do you ask? ???

Come on, seriously, I'm not buying a 1.8 pound tripod (that includes the weight of the head!) and expecting to use it for heavy duty stuff.

[lilminijpc]

Just hope none of you who ordered the 0-series is expecting to use any long or heavy lenses on it.

hm... can you elaborate on that statement? it mentioned that it could support up to 13.2 lbs for mine. i was planning to use my 100-400mm on it. :confused:

I'm going to put a $600 Wimberley gimbal head on it and going to go birding with my 400/2.8L IS + 2x TC. Why do you ask?

Come on, seriously, I'm not buying a 1.8 pound tripod (that includes the weight of the head!) and expecting to use it for heavy duty stuff.

lol... similar thoughts exactly. :) you just type faster

[wickerprints]

hm... can you elaborate on that statement? it mentioned that it could support up to 13.2 lbs for mine. i was planning to use my 100-400mm on it. :confused:

Often, the stated load capacity is not a realistic working load capacity. 13.2 pounds might be how much it's rated to handle, but I wouldn't try putting more than half that weight (and maybe even less) on it if you want to avoid problems with the ball head.

The tripod legs themselves should be able to comfortably handle half the rated weight. Hang your gear bag or a sandbag from the center hook to lower the center of gravity.

[sjlund]

Info according to BHphoto

Which is all spectacular, but I ordered the 068 series, not the 168.

[sjlund]

I took delivery of my new benro c-068m8 travel tripod. All in all, it's a pretty slick piece of equipment. The ballhead is the obvious weak link, followed by the center column (even in its lowest position), but hanging weight from the hook on the column helps considerably (but may cause problems in windy conditions?) I look forward to puting it through its paces in San Francisco in a few weeks.

The twist locks are fast. You can unlock all three twistlocks at once with only a 1/8 or 1/4 turn, extend all the legs, and lock them one after the other quickly.

The legs and b-00 balhead combined weigh in at 2 pounds 2.5 oz according to the postal scale here at work. The clamp on the head can use RRS/arca/etc plates, which is a nice plus since I had an RRS plate that came with my 40D when I picked it up used.

[Tvw]

Which is all spectacular, but I ordered the 068 series, not the 168.

I know, I just wondered if you did consider that one.

[Tvw]

I took delivery of my new benro c-068m8 travel tripod. All in all, it's a pretty slick piece of equipment. The ballhead is the obvious weak link, followed by the center column (even in its lowest position), but hanging weight from the hook on the column helps considerably (but may cause problems in windy conditions?) I look forward to puting it through its paces in San Francisco in a few weeks.


Is the center column that unstable?
How about the head? What is the gear you will be using on it?

[sjlund]

I know, I just wondered if you did consider that one.

Nope, I did not.

[sjlund]

Is the center column that unstable?
How about the head? What is the gear you will be using on it?

With the center column up, yeah, it's not all that stable. You'd certianly want to use a remote shutter release or self timer if your shutter speed is slow. If it was windy it might not be usable at all, depending on the gear mounted on it.

I will be using it with my 40D and mainly the 17-55 and 10-20. I may use it with the Sigma 150 macro in a pinch and under ideal conditions.

The head is the first part to flex (with the column down) when you press on the front of the lens. The next part is the center column, and then the legs/leg mounts start to twist or flex.

I don't have another tripod or head to compare with, so take my first impressions for what you think they're worth. The one thing to remember is that it is a *travel* tripod, you shouldn't use it outside of it's capabilities. It's designed to be small and light, not for holding up heavy birding lenses or something.

[wickerprints]

Is it really 1.8 pounds as advertised? :mrgreen:

[sjlund]

As I noted above, the legs and ballhead combine to 2 pounds 2.5 ounces, so I would guess the legs are pretty close to the 1.8 pounds quoted.

[justrussfm]

Couple thoughts:

I hope the 100-400L on this setup is a joke.

Center columns, on all tripods, should be used on an "only if absolutely needed" basis. This is no different. My center column doesn't flex at all when it is down with 5D + 135L... it sure is less table when the center column is up.

For slow shutter speeds, you should always be shooting MLU with a remote shutter release. Press once to lift mirror, wait a second or two, and then press again (we're talking remote shutter release) to make the exposure. The mirror induces vibrations like nothing else... except for your fingers if you're trying fire the shutter without a release!

I've been using my tripod (C-068m8 + B-0) for a while in moderate conditions (legs in running water, moderate breeze/wind). No trouble with 35L at any angle at any level of extension (including column up) whatsoever. I can get crisp shots with the legs fully extended, and column up with 135L at an angle... but I wouldn't want to do that in much wind.

Again, MLU + Remote Release.... all the time.

[wickerprints]

So today I heard the flapping of wings as my Travel Angel arrived at my doorstep.... :p

It is the TRCB068 model.

This is an insanely light tripod. When the carrying case makes a noticeable difference in the total weight, you know it's light. This is my first carbon fiber tripod, so it took me a little while to get used to the feeling of the material.

Overall, the build quality is good. Not super rugged, but this is clearly a tripod made with a specific design goal in mind, which is the lightest possible weight while being able to hold up a decent camera.

Let me get this out of the way--the ballhead is clearly not designed to be used in any position off the vertical axis for loads above 7-8 pounds. It is too small for that purpose. So, as others have said, do not expect miracles from such a tiny head. However, if you are using a heavy lens, chances are you are using the tripod ring, so the only tilting you really need to do is up/down anyway. Any change between portrait/landscape is accomplished by turning the lens in the ring. Panning is done on a separate knob and does not involve the ball.

The tripod legs are capable of handling quite a bit of weight, and in fact seem to stabilize better the more load that is put on it. Again, this is because the tripod is just that light.

The center column is a little tight but that's understandable.

The legs were really tight, it took a lot of effort to fold them into position. Fortunately, the included Allen wrench made it easy to adjust the joint tension to my satisfaction.

One thing I do NOT like is the quick release plate. It is secured to the body or lens mount via the same Allen head as the legs. That it doesn't have a hand-tightening mechanism is absurd and annoying. I am going to go to the hardware store to find a replacement screw.

I forgot to buy a second quick release plate. Suggestions?

I have not yet figured out how to remove the ballhead, or if that is even possible. But in any case, I do not see any reason to.

Using the tripod with the 5D2 + 70-200/2.8L IS is very easy and poses no problems whatsoever. But we will see in the coming weeks.

The tripod did not come included with spiked feet.

All in all, I would recommend this product for photographers who absolutely, absolutely must have the lightest possible weight in a reasonably sturdy tripod. It isn't going to support a heavier combo, nor is it going to be rock solid. But it is very respectable for its weight.

[justrussfm]

The ballhead is removable by holding the center column with one hand, and holding the base of the ballhead (below the panning part), and twist. All that holds the ballhead to the center column is a bolt with two threaded ends (a hanger bolt), one of which screws into the ballhead and one of which screws into the center column.

If you have the non-kit version of the tripod, then the tripod has a mounting plate on top of the center column (and the center column + plate extend all the way to the tips of the legs when folded down into "traveler" position... as opposed to the kit version where the ballhead QR extends to the tips of the legs when folded).

[justrussfm]

I have the B-0 ballhead on my kit version of the C-068m8 legs... a special request I made because I had heard that the B-00 was a limiting factor. The ballhead has been fine for me (5D + 35L or 135L, even at an angle), but I'm going to replace it with a photoclam pc-30n as soon as a friend sends me one from korea.

[sjlund]

One thing I do NOT like is the quick release plate. It is secured to the body or lens mount via the same Allen head as the legs.

Is this abnormal? My RRS plate uses a screw that tightens on using the same size allen wrench as the Benro plate.

Either way, I prefer the tool-tight connection rather than a finger-tight one.

[PWard]

I've read the discussions here about the Benro Travel Angel, so I browsed Amazon and found one, and ordered it (should be here tomorrow). Only problem is, I can't find much information on this particular model (not even on the Benro Website)...maybe a discontinued model?


Benro Travel Angel TRA168

http://www.amazon.com/Benro-TRA168-Magnesium-Aluminium-Section-Supports/dp/B001VEIZY2

I'm leaving for Puerto Rico in 2 days, and I waited until the last minute to decide I wanted to bring a tripod...and not wanting to bring my ultra cheap Best Buy special Dynex tripod I have at home lol. that thing seems like it's 3 feet folded.

[JDubya]

I love my Gitzo 1541T

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3511/3202518487_725118323a_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/17547754@N03/3202518487/)

[ben_r_]

Me too! IMO the Gitzo 1541T with Markins Q3T head and RRS lever clamp is the winning combo!

[tvphotog]

Couple thoughts:

I hope the 100-400L on this setup is a joke.


No, not a joke. That long lens on the light tripod is an excellent setup if you attach the lens collar to the QR. The weight is evenly balanced front and back. Heavy winds, I don't know, but under most circumstances, it works great. See this. (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=538298&highlight=1541t)

[alexwren]

I've read the discussions here about the Benro Travel Angel, so I browsed Amazon and found one, and ordered it (should be here tomorrow). Only problem is, I can't find much information on this particular model (not even on the Benro Website)...maybe a discontinued model?


Benro Travel Angel TRA168

http://www.amazon.com/Benro-TRA168-Magnesium-Aluminium-Section-Supports/dp/B001VEIZY2


How did this one work out?

I'm totally new to tripods (never used one), but I'm heading to South Africa after Christmas and think one will come in handy. Plus I do want to do more night landscape type stuff. The price seems right on this one, and I don't think I'll be putting more than 6lbs on it (30D gripped, 70-200 f/2.8, maybe an extender) so I should be ok for the 8.8lb limit?

I'm not opposed to spending in the area of $200 or so if it is going to get something that is quite a bit lighter, but if this thing travels well I'd much rather spend the money on something else for my trip.

Thanks.

[PWard]

after I had made that post, I eventually found a website that had information for my particular model.

so far it's worked great. I have no complaints (except maybe the price tag) :-)

It took a tumble down some rocks when I slipped on a rock and fell down a waterfall. aside frmo a few scratches and nicks, it went on like a champ. you can even invert it and hang your camera upside down in order to get some nice shots.

here's one of a waterfall where my camera was inverted on the tripod and literally inches above the water using the Benro Travel Angel.

http://i690.photobucket.com/albums/vv262/Phil21080/LaMina_small.jpg

[xepherys]

Well, it's been over a year since the last post, so I'm wondering if anyone has any new experiences with a travel tripod that they might like to share.

I'm going to Ireland next month, and am packing a Domke F-5XZ (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/592347-REG/Domke_700_53A_F_5XZ_RuggedWear_Shoulder_Bag.html) with my 7D, 24-70L/2.8 and 70-200L/4.0. I'd like a very small tripod to go along for the ride. I plan to possibly add straps to the bottom of the bag, though I'd possibly not take the 70-200 out with me if the tripod fit nicely in the bag.

Carrying a tripod separately, or using a larger bag is not really an option for this trip, so please keep that in mind. Really I don't need anyhting much larger than a tabletop tripod, but something with a little more height (1-2') would be great, but under 12" collapsed.

Any thoughts?

[thekatybee]

Question for all: What do you think a maximum weight should be for a travel tripod?

[Nightdiver13]

Question for all: What do you think a maximum weight should be for a travel tripod?

That really depends on your particular circumstances. What style of traveling do you need it for? How much weight does it need to hold? Is there a minimum height requirement? Once you have some general ideas for those questions, you have to sort out your priorities regarding cost, weight, and stability.

[peter_n]

Question for all: What do you think a maximum weight should be for a travel tripod?Something under 3 lbs. Remember you have to carry a decent ballhead too, my Markins weighs 0.83 lbs so it adds up.

Well, it's been over a year since the last post, so I'm wondering if anyone has any new experiences with a travel tripod that they might like to share.

I'm going to Ireland next month, and am packing a Domke F-5XZ (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/592347-REG/Domke_700_53A_F_5XZ_RuggedWear_Shoulder_Bag.html) with my 7D, 24-70L/2.8 and 70-200L/4.0. I'd like a very small tripod to go along for the ride. I plan to possibly add straps to the bottom of the bag, though I'd possibly not take the 70-200 out with me if the tripod fit nicely in the bag.I'm recently back from Ireland but I brought a regular Benro travel tripod that I just reviewed (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1043508). The weather can be quite windy over there and a really lightweight tripod will be severely pushed. I like the Benro range so a series 0 or 1 should suit you if you really want to go light, and I've strapped a very light tripod under my bags with success. Are you sure that you want one so small though? 1-2 ft is almost like a large table tripod, I'm not that big - 5ft 8in but I needed a regular-sized tripod over there. Treat your Domke bag with a wax spray like Nikwax TX.Direct as it rains a lot in Ireland...

[kipliq]

I'm thinking of purchasing the Benro A0691T Travel Angel Transfunctional Tripod Kit with Aluminum Twist Lock Legs with B00 Head. I'm traveling to the smokey mountains and disneyland this year. What are your opinions. The tripod will be mostly for travel. The carbon version is .4 lighter so I'm looking at the aluminum version.

http://www.amazon.com/Benro-A0691T-Travel-Transfunctional-Aluminum/dp/B004BPKVIG/ref=lh_ni_t

[boingy]

I'm thinking of purchasing the Benro A0691T Travel Angel Transfunctional Tripod Kit with Aluminum Twist Lock Legs with B00 Head. I'm traveling to the smokey mountains and disneyland this year. What are your opinions. The tripod will be mostly for travel. The carbon version is .4 lighter so I'm looking at the aluminum version.

http://www.amazon.com/Benro-A0691T-Travel-Transfunctional-Aluminum/dp/B004BPKVIG/ref=lh_ni_t

I got the A1692 and so far have no complaints. The fold up length is smaller than I thought, but the diameter is a little bigger compared to some smaller manfrotto's I've messed with. I got the 2 instead 1, which means I can attach the center column to the detachable monopod. Only downfall of that is if you decide to only take out the monopod it can't be folded down all the way. The weight is perfect, but I personally don't mind a little extra weight. The B0 head handles my tiny lenses with ease, but not sure how it would do with larger lenses... I can't compare to other tripods so take that with a grain of salt. My only curiousity is how well it dampens vibrations compared to other travel tripods and how significant it is... For the price I personally think it's a bargain.

[peter_n]

The carbon version is .4 lighter so I'm looking at the aluminum version.Everybody focuses on the weight differences which often aren't all that great. The big differentiator is the vibration absorbing characteristic; carbon fiber tripods are much better at dampening vibration.

[Robinson Crusoe]

Carrying a tripod separately, or using a larger bag is not really an option for this trip, so please keep that in mind. Really I don't need anyhting much larger than a tabletop tripod, but something with a little more height (1-2') would be great, but under 12" collapsed.
Any thoughts?

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/795795-REG/Velbon_ULTRA_MAXI_MINI_Ultra_MAXi_mini_Tripod.html

I thought of this tripod very long time but at last played my card on guarantee. It folds up to 7.7 inches, which is a miracle.

There are also other models of Velbon, i think you may check them on Bhphotovideo. I was in your shoes a few days ago and i must admit their filter helps a lot to choose what you need.

[kipliq]

Everybody focuses on the weight differences which often aren't all that great. The big differentiator is the vibration absorbing characteristic; carbon fiber tripods are much better at dampening vibration.

I did not mention the obvious because it was stated many many times in this thread and others. Aside from the vibration absorption and have not come across any percentages on absorption bell curve type tests so hard to base it all on absorption. Not trying to argue with you but that why I went away from the absorption angle. I've been using aluminum and have not come across issues and I use a shutter release.

Is Oben any good found this. But seriously does the brand matter with tripods, don't have much experience with them. Found many not big brand names that have similar specs and half the cost.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/768007-REG/Oben_AC_2300_3_Section_Aluminum_Tripod.html

What about Slik

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/614842-REG/Slik_613344_Pro_340_BH_4_Section.html

[FLiPMaRC]

Found this through another thread about Sirui products in B&H (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1139696).

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/822127-REG/Sirui_BSRT005BK_T_005_5_Section_Aluminum_Tripod.ht ml

Folds down to 11.8", load 8.4lbs, and weighs 2.2lbs for only $130 :cool: Also comes in blue and red :lol:

[kipliq]

Found this through another thread about Sirui products in B&H (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1139696).

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/822127-REG/Sirui_BSRT005BK_T_005_5_Section_Aluminum_Tripod.ht ml

Folds down to 11.8", load 8.4lbs, and weighs 2.2lbs for only $130 :cool: Also comes in blue and red :lol:

Very good find,I may pick one up just for travel. Don't know about red or blue , the black looks nice lol.

[happy2010]

Yup - tripods & monopods that are compact, lightweight and sturdy are more likely to get utilized & foster creativity since convenient; otherwise tend to collect dust.

[RandyS]

Everybody focuses on the weight differences which often aren't all that great. The big differentiator is the vibration absorbing characteristic; carbon fiber tripods are much better at dampening vibration.
This, this, and this.

The weight savings is actually just a nice extra bonus to all the characteristics that should actually draw you to carbon.

[peter_n]

But seriously does the brand matter with tripods, don't have much experience with them.Personally I don't think it matters at all if you get a good copy of your selected tripod. I use Gitzo and Benro tripods, and there might be better inspection and quality control at Gitzo so maybe less variation in the product, but to be honest I can't see that much difference in quality. I've given my Benro a right bashing and it's still just fine.

I use Leica camera equipment and that brand is supposed to be the epitome of quality; but I've had many issues with Leica lenses and refuse to buy a Leica digital body because they are so unreliable.

So you can't go by brand at all, the best course is to spend some time with the tripod & support FAQ (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=740131) that member ben_r_ works so hard to maintain. Once you get a sense of what might be good for you from that try to visit a dealer and try tripods out, it really is a personal choice.

[kipliq]

Personally I don't think it matters at all if you get a good copy of your selected tripod. I use Gitzo and Benro tripods, and there might be better inspection and quality control at Gitzo so maybe less variation in the product, but to be honest I can't see that much difference in quality. I've given my Benro a right bashing and it's still just fine.

I use Leica camera equipment and that brand is supposed to be the epitome of quality; but I've had many issues with Leica lenses and refuse to buy a Leica digital body because they are so unreliable.

So you can't go by brand at all, the best course is to spend some time with the tripod & support FAQ (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=740131) that member ben_r_ works so hard to maintain. Once you get a sense of what might be good for you from that try to visit a dealer and try tripods out, it really is a personal choice.

@peter_n That is actually what is going through my mind. Each brand went through being the noob on the field and someone had to test it out. To gain the right tripod for a individual will take time and money. I don't want to buy crap but I don't want to over spend as I will only use the tripod about 25% many 35% of the time. I had a costco manfrotto for a year and it worked for what I did but I out grew it with my 7-200 2.8 MKI lens my total weight for my equipment is around 6 pounds now. I will not be upgrading my gear anytime soon. I was thinking that the manfrotto I had must be similar to the cheaper benro/siuri tripods but I'm thinking of purchasing.

I'm looking at the following tripods - I'll be in the Smokey Mountains and at Disneyland for a few days and need to carry it around plus hiking trips.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/738027-REG/Benro_A1690TBH0_A_1690_Travel_Angel_Alum.html

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/822241-REG/Sirui_BSRT025_T_025_5_Section_Carbon_Fiber.html

[FLiPMaRC]

^ Wow! I didn't see that carbon fiber Sirui tripod. Not bad for $220. My Benro travel angel cost me $200 (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=a-2690&N=0&InitialSearch=yes) and it's 4lbs :lol:

4lbs sounded okay to me in the beginning, until I walked around with it in Bermuda :lol:

[wunhang]

^ Wow! I didn't see that carbon fiber Sirui tripod. Not bad for $220. My Benro travel angel cost me $200 (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=a-2690&N=0&InitialSearch=yes) and it's 4lbs :lol:

4lbs sounded okay to me in the beginning, until I walked around with it in Bermuda :lol:

Was it really the weight or just the fact that you had something largish strapped to you somehow? I have the travel angel also but still don't take it out very often unless I absolutely need it since I waste time setting it up (at least that's what is running in my head). Then at the end of the day, I look at it and think "why did I even bother bringing it... I didn't use it at all."

[kipliq]

I purchased the Sirui T025 Carbon Fiber tripod for my vacation.