Slik Tripod and Pan/Tilt Head

I've read many of the threads on tripods and understand the preference for Manfrotto, Gitzo and other higher-end combos. Before I order, I would just like to ask for evaluations of the Slik 700DX Pro tripod and the Slik Pan/Tilt head that can be ordered with it. I've heard from a lot of folks who own other brands, but is there anyone who has actually owned the Slik products and likes them, or finds they are acceptable for non-professional use.

Stan,

I have the Slik 614CF with a Manfrotto 486RC2 ball head and am very satisfied with it. I bought it as a field tripod (weight & portablility). No complaints.

Steve - Toledo

I have the 700DX Pro. But, I use and suggest a ball head. Decent tripod.

I've been very pleased with my 700 DX Pro. It's well-made, sturdy, and versatile.
Not being a fan of quick release heads, I opted for the SH-706 Pan /Tilt head.
This one: http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …_3_Way_Pan_Tilt​_Head.html
Being a 'birder, I prefer the Pan / Tilt heads, as opposed to Ball Heads. I think that both types have advantages, depending on the 'subject' of your photographs.

For approx. $135 delivered to my front door, it's been an economical and carefree set-up for me.

I also have a 700 DX. I chose it for it's size and weight and I do use the Pan and Tilt
head that comes with it along with a Giottos MH 1000 ballhead.

My dad had this for travel and it was pretty nice and sturdy. But then he sold it. I miss it

Thanks for these replies. You have helped a lot with my decision.

I have a 400DX Pro and like it. The only thing I don't like is that the pan/tilt head has relativly long handles and it seems like they're always grabbing on something when I'm carrying the tripod. I'm thinking of going to a ball head for that reason.

Otherwise, weight & stability are good. My heaviest load is a gripped 30D w/ 70-200 f/2.8 and flash and it does fine with the weight.

I like the stability of the legs and the postion options to get you down really low if you need to.

Thanks, Jeff.

Another happy 700DX owner here. I usually use the Bogen Grip Action 322RC2 Ballhead with it. An excellent tripod at a great price.

Dave

I modified a SLIK Pro 330DX

I modified a SLIK Pro 330DX and ended up with a very nice 2-pound 11-ounce travel and boonie-tromping tripod which cost in the neighborhood of $130 total.

1. Substituted optional shorter center column for standard column bringing weight of leg-set (only) down to exactly 2-pounds.

2. Substituted an Adorama Flashpoint Magnesium F1 ball head for the SLIK pan-tilt head. The F-1 weighs exactly 11-ounces.

The modified setup can easily support my 40D or 30D cameras with 17-55mm f/2.8 IS or 70-200mm f/4L IS lenses attached.

I use a RRS L-bracket to attach the 30D with 17-55mm f/2.8 IS lens to the Arca Compatible ball head. The L-bracket supports the camera directly over the head instead of hanging cantilevered over to the side when in the portrait position.

The tripod is fairly short but it is a dream to carry and is surprisingly stable. I was able to shoot in some pretty stiff breezes at Bryce Canyon N.P. in Utah.

Thanks for the additional input. Weight is definitely a factor for me.