Recommend me a new tripod for wildlife set up

Methodical wrote in post #16285677
I received the RRS Monday and it's a really nice piece. Below is a picture showing the differences in RRS and Feisol tripod.

I have never tried RRS tripods, we don't really see them in the UK, but I hear/read very good things about them - pity they are so expensive! Still quality costs and is cheaper in the long run.

Happy new tripod!

nellyle wrote in post #16268137
Thanks for the answer.

It'll be used to hold a 500 f4 ii, so it sounds like I will be better off with something that has a bit more capacity.

The 1325 was THE tripod of choice for 500mm shooters for many years. It is an older version of what is now the 3532 which holds 55 lbs, and the tripod I coveted for years, but by the time I finally bought, I got one of the newer models with the numbers I can never remember. But 1325, I still remember, so I always mistakenly call mine that.

My point being, if you find a good price on a used one it will be a perfect fit for the 500mm.

I do not believe the newer models are really nearly twice as strong. I believe that the older models were more conservatively rated than the new ones are. ie: it will handle it's rated 26.5 pounds without breaking a sweat and with more leeway than the new one would handle it's rated 50..

johnf3f wrote in post #16285712
I have never tried RRS tripods, we don't really see them in the UK, but I hear/read very good things about them - pity they are so expensive! Still quality costs and is cheaper in the long run.

Happy new tripod!

I went with RRS because of the customer relation issues I've read about Gitzo. Plus, I tend to go against the grain and go with the underdog. In this case RRS and the JoBu Gimbal head. I like to try and be a bit unique wherever I can. These companies are no slouches either. They make great products, but the other folks just been around longer and have more followers.

I've purchase about 3-4 tripods (progressively got better units) which would've almost added up the price of this one, but I did not always have the 500mm lens, nor did I contemplate getting one either back then. I should be good for a long while with this one.

Btw, those tripods are still put to use though (light stands, reflector holders), so it was not a total waste of money.

It's only money. I can't take it with me.

Al

Methodical wrote in post #16285677
I received the RRS Monday and it's a really nice piece. Below is a picture showing the differences in RRS and Feisol tripod.

Great! Looks like you're all set for awhile!

CyberDyneSystems wrote in post #16285724
The 1325 was THE tripod of choice for 500mm shooters for many years. It is an older version of what is now the 3532 which holds 55 lbs, and the tripod I coveted for years, but by the time I finally bought, I got one of the newer models with the numbers I can never remember. But 1325, I still remember, so I always mistakenly call mine that.

My point being, if you find a good price on a used one it will be a perfect fit for the 500mm.

I do not believe the newer models are really nearly twice as strong. I believe that the older models were more conservatively rated than the new ones are. ie: it will handle it's rated 26.5 pounds without breaking a sweat and with more leeway than the new one would handle it's rated 50..

So.......does that mean it could handle a 600 ii?

nellyle wrote in post #16287821
So.......does that mean it could handle a 600 ii?

I use a 1325 with my 600 II...easily handled with a Jobu Pro2 gimbal.

JimLittle wrote in post #16287842
I use a 1325 with my 600 II...easily handled with a Jobu Pro2 gimbal.

Thanks.

This could cost a lot more than planned......

INDURO 8MM 413 WITH A GIMBLE.
FARMER 1957

Gitzo 1325 ii on the way!

Well, my 1325 arrived.....as expected it's on another level to the Manfrotto 055XPROB it replaces!

I'd read lots about the twist locks being a pain as they aren't the newer G-lock system, but it seems good enough for me!

nellyle wrote in post #16293183
Well, my 1325 arrived.....as expected it's on another level to the Manfrotto 055XPROB it replaces!

I'd read lots about the twist locks being a pain as they aren't the newer G-lock system, but it seems good enough for me!

The old leg locks are a bit different, I use both types without issue, just remember to extend or collapse the tripod start at the lowest section and work up. Also the older leg locks are more reliant on how much you tighten them. A good reasonably firm twist is enough to hold me (105 Kilos) so you will need somewhat less for your camera and lens!
These older leg locks are much easier to clean than the newer ALR locks.

Happy new tripod!

Thanks John...and thanks for the PM's, they were very useful!

The most surprising thing is the weight, compared to my old tripod this one feels much lighter....but MUCH more rigid.

I used a 1228 for several years. It and a Benro travel tripod have the smoothest leg locks I've encountered. I improved the feel of the locks on my modern 3-series Gitzo by removing all of the graphite grease and replacing it with white lithium grease. They're much smoother now.