Spending spree

Chose it over the Manfrotto 055. Well I just hit this, its a TANK. Discontinued but who cares. It is rated at 22LBS!

Won the bid at $170.00 new in the box. Now I am going to pair it up with the Giottos MH-3300 Ballhead and the quest for a sturdy(but heavy) tripod for my future birding lens is over for now.

Giottos Pro GB-4180 Aluminum

Highlights:
Features like individual, adjustable leg spread positions, a reversible center column with hook, bubble level and compass, and rubber leg sleeves all make this tripod a versatile support tool for a Pro SLR camera, in the field or indoors.

Features:
• Leg Diameter : 32mm top leg section diameter
• Adjustable Leg Angles : Each leg has three adjustable leg angle positions
• Rubber Leg Sleeves : Non-slip foam rubber sleeves cover the upper leg sections, for easier transportation and handling in extreme temperature
• Tool Kit : Includes a tool bag with hexangular wrench to tighten leg screws, or to convert camera screw from 1/4"-20 to 3/8"
• Retractable Hook : The retractable hook can be used to add stability with a sand bag or equipment bag

Specifications:
• Load Capacity : 22 lb (10 kg)
• Head Attachment Fitting : Convertible 1/4"-20 to 3/8"
• Maximum Height : 68.1" (173 cm)
• Minimum Height : 35.2" (64.2 cm)
• Folded Length : 28.1" (71.3 cm)
• Weight : 6.4 lb (2.9 kg)
• Legs Material : Aluminum
• Leg Stages/Sections : 2/3
• Leg Lock Type : Twist
• Independent Leg Spread : Yes
• Center Column Type : Sliding, with anti-rotation groove
• Tool Bag with Hexangular Wrench
• Adjustable Shoulder Strap with Anti-Slip Pad
• Carrying Case

Wow that thing is HUGE! 28" folded AND thats without the head AND 6.1 lbs!?!?!? What was wrong with say a Bogen 055XPROB?

I don't like the legs, too wobbly and slack for my taste. I actually bought one a while back and returned it the next day. I also didn't like the clamps and wanted twist lock instead.

Not that huge... Actually

GB4180 = max height of 68"and closes down to 28" with a weight of 6.4 lbs. and a 22 lbs capacity.

055 = max height of 70" closes down to 26" with a weight of 5.5lbs and a 15.4 lbs capacity.

Where is the Giotto Huge?

BTW I don't carry tripods. My Lowepro Pro roller 2 does that for me, love the wheels. After I slap on the 2.2Lbs Ballhead it will be a good weight to $$$ ratio coming in at 8.6lbs. It will be my "baby" Ha.

Just bought the ball head...so this is my $400.00 budget combo.

THX ALL.

gdl357 wrote in post #5876454
I don't like the legs, too wobbly and slack for my taste. I actually bought one a while back and returned it the next day. I also didn't like the clamps and wanted twist lock instead.

Not that huge... Actually

GB4180 = max height of 68"and closes down to 28" with a weight of 6.4 lbs. and a 22 lbs capacity.

055 = max height of 70" closes down to 26" with a weight of 5.5lbs and a 15.4 lbs capacity.

Where is the Giotto Huge?

BTW I don't carry tripods. My Lowepro Pro roller 2 does that for me, love the wheels. After I slap on the 2.2Lbs Ballhead it will be a good weight to $$$ ratio coming in at 8.6lbs. It will be my "baby" Ha.

Just bought the ball head...so this is my $400.00 budget combo.

THX ALL.

Sorry I meant they are both huge, not that the Giottos was that much larger than the bogen. But if you are not carrying it then that an entirely different story! I just ordered a Gitzo 1541T (16" closed, 2.1lbs and holds 17.6lbs) because I usually have to carry my tripods and can stand how heavy the 055XPROB was. Thats why they both seemed HUGE to me. I guess I never really thought about the specs of the tripod so much when I first bought the 055XPROB.

What head are you using on that tripod?

OMG are you sure you are not a store owner! You can easily open one up and stock it with the inventory you have in your gearlist. HA. Thx now I don't feel guilty spending $400 measly bucks!

thx

Well just an update .

Received both items.

The MH-3300 ballhead is da bomb. Very satisfied with this unit. Ordered a second plate for it. Super smooth huge ball. Very happy about this purchase.

On the other hand, the tripod had a deffect in the ring nut that holds the center column tight. It seems to be machined a hair to big and therefore skipping the threads when tightened down. This has been returned and I lost $60.00 in the process as I had to pay shipping both ways.

Oh well on to the next tripod. Manfrotto here I come.


Update: Seller is giving me a full refund including the return shipping. great!!!