manfrotto tripod with ballhead and grip

What's the best deal for one of these at B&H? I have no idea where to begin with tripods, but I know I need one. Ideally, it wouldn't be too heavy. I'm not going to be using any gigantic lenses on it, so it doesn't need to be a massive thing, but I obviously want stability. I like the ones with the grip. Can anyone recommend a decent one that isn't top-of-the-line high-priced, but still is sturdy and reliable with ballhead and grip? Thanks much.

I wouldn't recommend a "grip style" ball head, but go for a 488 instead...
Also: Have a look at ebay.

Why don't you like the grip?

So you think this is a bad idea?

http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …ails&Q=&sku=505​864&is=REG

The manfrotto tripods didn't innovate (much) over the years, so I'd rather pick up a used 3021 (if I've got the model number right) off e-bay, and get a new 488. Should add up to about half that price.

I don't like grip heads, because IMO they add nothing but bulk, instability, and bits sticking out to catch on stuff.

In fact, IMO, they make using a ball head harder then an ordinary ballhead, since you need to keep one hand on the ball to move it.

Some people are happy with them however, so YMMV...
If you do a search on POTN you'll probably come across a few posts with lots of opinions...

Thank you.

Mum2J&M wrote in post #5789580
So you think this is a bad idea?

http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …ails&Q=&sku=505​864&is=REG

That's pretty much the exact setup I've got except mine is the CF model and most of the time I love it, but René is right, frequently I would give my eye teeth for a 488RC on that thing. Just to be clear, I wouldn't trade the tripod for anything but I will eventually get a new head.

Say Rene' and others... I'm looking at the 488 too... Wouldn't a maxi ball rather than a mini ball be better, especially for the white lenses?

johnstoy wrote in post #5792381
Say Rene' and others... I'm looking at the 488 too... Wouldn't a maxi ball rather than a mini ball be better, especially for the white lenses?

I thought the 486 was the smaller one.

486 doesn't have a seperate pan. I think 488 is maxi, but I'm not too sure on the names.
"Better" would be a Markins, but that's a whole different price range

Mum2J&M wrote in post #5789275
What's the best deal for one of these at B&H? I have no idea where to begin with tripods, but I know I need one. Ideally, it wouldn't be too heavy. I'm not going to be using any gigantic lenses on it, so it doesn't need to be a massive thing, but I obviously want stability. I like the ones with the grip. Can anyone recommend a decent one that isn't top-of-the-line high-priced, but still is sturdy and reliable with ballhead and grip? Thanks much.

One thing I didn't notice in our post was what you wanted the head for. I use the 322RC2, a Vanguard 300 ball head and an older manfroto pan tilt similar to the 804RC2.

For studio work I love the 322RC2. It outshines a typical ball head by far. It is quick to position the head with the grip, no need for one hand on the camera/ball mount and one loosening the friction knob. When properly tuned it has no sag upon being locked and with the accessory shutter release on the grip it is just a great studio setup.

For general shooting I prefer a typical ball head. I have a 488RC2 but it is now relegated to my secondary head for my 3021 legs on the short center shaft. On the standard shaft I have a Vanguard 300 with an RC2 QR head and plate. The Vanguard QR system screws off easily. The Vanguard supports the same amount of weight as the 488, is larger, has a separate friction control knob and a separate pan control that is fluid smooth. Unlike the 488 with the Vanguard I can loosen the ball lock knob and not worry about the head flopping due to the separate friction control.

For product type shoots and static macro I prefer a pan and tilt. It is the easiest to set exactly where you want it when tiny bits of movement are needed. It is bulky to carry around and would be my last choice for a general head.

Go to a good photography shop and check out the different style of heads. It helps if you know what you are going to use it for most. If you are looking for a general purpose head then I would suggest a ball head as they are the most compact to transport.

René Damkot wrote in post #5792475
486 doesn't have a seperate pan. I think 488 is maxi, but I'm not too sure on the names.
"Better" would be a Markins, but that's a whole different price range

Good one Rene'... I'll check Markins out again... I'm lining up my options for sturdy legs and a strong head.

EDIT: After a closer review of the Markins system... I'm impressed... (However, It does require additional custom plates)...Also it's exclusive compatibility with Gitzo makes it a pricey item. Therefore, back to reviewing the 488 for now.

Thanks guys...

johnstoy wrote in post #5792966
Also it's exclusive compatibility with Gitzo

It will fit a Manfrotto tripod just fine...