John_TX wrote in post #4310021
I just got the Feisol CT-3442 + Center Column Kit in the mail today.
In short, this is a very stable tripod and it's weight, wait, let me rephrase that, it's LACK of weight was extremely surprising!
The quality of the build is outstanding, as well as the padded nylon zipper carry case (includes padded shoulder strap & zippered parts & plate pocket). Mine included a couple of different wrenches, weight hook (I didn't have it installed for the pictures) and a 3/8" to 1/4" adapter screw.
The main base that the legs & center column attach to does indeed appear to be machined aluminum. The rubber on all of the twist-locks (including the center column) is tactile, yet tightly attached (doesn't turn or move when you really bear down on it).
The silver leg angle adjustment locks appear to be made of cast metal, but there appears to be very little weight/torque on them due to the angle of the legs (that's a +). Each leg fully extended is approximately 38.5" from it's next-door neighbor.
This is the 4-section model and the bottom two legs try to rotate a little bit when locking them down, HOWEVER, if you expand from top to bottom, and then collapse from bottom to top, you can hold onto the section above it if it starts to turn a little bit. I only had one joint turn a little when first turning the knob as I tightened it down way too tight. The legs move very smoothly up & down the shaft.
Measurements:Ground-top of base plate (no center column kit installed) =
55.5"Top of base plate to top of center column base plate (fully extended) =
13.0"Top of base plate to top of 488CR2 (on top of fully extended center column) =
17.25"Ground-top of center column base plate =
68" (this is with everything fully extended; add the height of your ballhead + plate + view finder to
68" to get the total height).
With the 488RC2 ballhead & plate, it puts the base of my camera body at
72.5" above ground level.
The scope in the picture weights about 3.5 LBS (Kowa 82mm TSN-821M) and was solid as a rock with the center column at half height or lower. There was a scintilla of shake with the center column fully extended, but I would bet even the best Gitzo's exhibit that as well.
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More Pictures of Feisol CT-3442 + Center Column Setup (including measurements)I'm sure I forgot to mention something, but I'll update this accordingly.
