Is a Flashpoint F-1228 Tripod and Flashpoint F-2 Ballhead good?

[marklori43]

Is a Flashpoint F-1228 Tripod and Flashpoint F-2 Ballhead good? I want something solid and which I can use to get down low and close to bugs for macro photography. I would like Art Wolfe's setup, but obviously money is a factor.

[Jon]

Haven't tried the F-1228, but here's my F-2 head on a Slik 613CF holding a 1D3 and 70-200 2.8 IS. I set it at that angle, left it for 1/2 hr., and it hadn't sagged. And I deliberately mounted it to the camera, not the lens, to increase torque loading. So the head will certainly do.

http://jonbarrettphoto.smugmug.com/photos/615296105_rwBS4-L.jpg

http://jonbarrettphoto.smugmug.com/photos/615296669_wyXxo-L.jpg

[masayako]

I have the Flashpoint F-1128 Carbon Fiber Tripod and Flashpoint F-1 Magnesium Alloy Ball Head with Quick Release. They are very good and sturdy. I have a 70-200 2.8 IS, it's a bit too much for the ball head, so I'll probably going to buy a RRS ball head in the future.

[scottcolbath]

I'm looking at Flashpoint's 1128 with the F3 ballhead now myself.

If there is a better setup for another hundred bucks or two that will properly fit in my Tarmac Expedition 6X, I'd like to hear about it.

My main concerns are light weight and compactness when collapsed, so it properly fits in my Tamrac. I will be tossing this on my back and heading out into the wilderness on my dirt bike.

S.C.