Heavyweight tripod recommendations

[Justaddwata]

Been searching this forum a while and seeing what is in use but ending up with more questions than answers.

This year I plan on renting some bigger tele lenses. Up to the 600 and 800mm (though 600 appears to be the heavier at 12 pounds + Body etc). I was thinking a tripod and head rated up to 39 pounds like the Gitzo GT3531 should well be fine though it states a 400mm maximum .

I am not looking to spend more than necessary and at this stage I care less about weight than price - lower is better. I am 6'2" so reasonably tall tripods preferred.

Could you offer some suggestions of decent tripods/heads that are up to the task.

[Todd Lambert]

I think youd want a 5 series for that.

[Justaddwata]

5 series Gitzos look to start around $1200 for something short with no head.
Is RRS worth the praise? I have been eyeballing the TVC-34L with head though thought it was budget stretching - though against the Gitzo it seems reasonable (provided it is capable enough).

Certainly welcome more budget friendly suggestions - I dont anticipate owning such a lens for a few years so the tripod will likely be unused much of its early life.

[Sirrith]

Perhaps Benbo? Though I'm not sure how heavy they hold, I just know they're very sturdy.

[Petersman]

Berlebach Uni tripods are supposed to be suitable for that kind of gear, and maybe a Gimbal head ?

I don't know about the pricing in your country, but the Berlebach tripods have a good resale value .

[Justaddwata]

I ended up going for the Manfrotto 161MK2B rated at 44 pounds and Maximum of 105" (Not sure I need all 105" but who knows!). Should be here by weeks end.
http://www.adorama.com/BG3258.html?g...FUJo4Aod-m4KDg

I have ordered a Opteka GH1 Pro Heavy Duty Metal Gimbal Head rated at 30 pounds to give a try.

Should be overkill for the glass I currently have and hopefully up to the task of the glass I rent in the future.

[Nordwil57]

I can't speak for the 600 or 800mm lenses, but I use the Opteka with my 300 f2.8 and love it. Yellvet over on the yellowstone.net forum liked it so much she bought a second so she wouldn't have to keep switching out. I'm tempted as well. Be sure to consider a new lens plate tho, the one supplied is pretty flimsy.

[Justaddwata]

Thanks Rick. Was thinking a longer plate to give me the option for 2 bolt mounting on some of the big primes. Certainly cannot complain about the price of it! Should have the Opteka head tomorrow!!

Tripod arrived today - it is a BEAST. Heavy and solid - cannot imagine having any issues with overloading it at the 6ft height I will need (second stage of leg still fully retracted). Fully extended it is ridiculously tall for my needs.

[Petersman]

Originally Posted by Justaddwata

I ended up going for the Manfrotto 161MK2B rated at 44 pounds and Maximum of 105" (Not sure I need all 105" but who knows!). Should be here by weeks end.
http://www.adorama.com/BG3258.html?g...FUJo4Aod-m4KDg

You had to go and get the biggest of the bunch ...

I always liked the Manfrotto studio series, solid stuff, and great to work with .