Tripod Decision

So I think I've decided to get a CF tripod. I'm debating between the Manfrotto 055CXPRO3 or a Gitzo probably a 25XX or 35XX. Should I just go for the Gitzo or does the Manfrotto have a similar lifespan as the Gitzo?

Or are there other CF tripds I should look into?

The tripod needs to support a ball head (e.g. RRS), possible macro rails in the future, the camera, L bracket, and lens, perhaps up to a 200 2L (thinking of the future :P).

I'm trying to "buy right, buy once", rather than periodic upgrading.

Feedback appreciated. Thanks!

Poe wrote in post #10651856
Or are there other CF tripds I should look into?

I was in the same boat as you a few months back and choose the Feisol. Take a look at them on the link in my signature and compare specs to what you are currently looking at. Top shelf product and I am most impressed. Especially suitable if you travel alot or just want something that is lightweight and easy to carry around.

-Dan

How tall are you?

That should be a big determining factor in tripod purchase. You don't want to spend several hundred dollars only to have to stoop over every time to use it and get discouraged.

Poe wrote in post #10651856
I'm trying to "buy right, buy once", rather than periodic upgrading.

If you truly want to do that, then start at the top and get the Gitzo. There is literally nothing better and you will never regret it!

There's lots of good advice here. But if you want more, IIRC Thom Hogan has suggestions about buying the right tripod and head on his site.

edit: Found it!
http://www.bythom.com/​support.htm

Hope this helps.

Unlike a previous post, I don't believe height is important when choosing a tripod. I am 6ft 2" but often find myself kneeling at the tripod because its the subject and composition that is all important.

Tripods are a very personal choice. Gitzo have a well deserved reputation for quality but I decided against one because at the time they only offered that cheap looking hammer paint finish and twist locks, which I have a pet hate of. If you like the look of them and can afford it, they are one of the best.

I chose a Manfrotto 055PROB mainly because they use snap locks and a black anodised finish. In other words, they were everything Gitzo was not!If I was choosing now I'd go for a carbon 'pod for "added lightness". I have removed the centre column and ditched it, both to improve stability and weight.

And trying to help further...pick a tripod that is high enough without extending the centre column.

If stability becomes a problem with the tripod you've chosen, hang a heavy weight like a camera bag or pack below the bottom of the centre column. It's easier to do if you put a hook there....for future.

2mnycars wrote in post #10654902
And trying to help further...pick a tripod that is high enough without extending the centre column.

Agreed. I am 6'6" and choose the Feisol in my signature for this very reason. Rock solid, compact, light, goes to the ground for macro since there is no center column. Just a perfect tripod for me.

Gitzo and Manfrotto are owned by the same company. Manfrotto is the more value priced line and with that comes higher weight. Gitzo is pretty much the gold standard in CF tripods. In fact, I don't think the Manfrotto is CF - they call it "mag fiber" whatever that is.

With no other criteria given, and the opportunity to spend the OP's money, Gitzo is the best choice.

J.

DisrupTer911 wrote in post #10654138
How tall are you?

That should be a big determining factor in tripod purchase. You don't want to spend several hundred dollars only to have to stoop over every time to use it and get discouraged.

Never understood this.

Maximum height of the tripod only matters if you shoot BiF or something similar where the height of the camera has no influence on the image.
Otherwise, the subject should determine camera height IMO.

A long tripod is very nice to have if you do a lot of group shots for instance. You'd need a step to be able to look in the viewfinder then .
If you shoot a lot of macro, max height might not be that important.

Manfrotto choose the word "magfiber" (poor spelling I know), to emphasise the fact that the metal castings are made using a magnesium alloy which is supposed to be lighter than traditional aluminium alloy. The "fiber" is the normal carbonfibre.

One of my favourite tripods is a Benbo.
Best I've used for landscapes--adjusts for rocky terrain very easily. Legs are inverted, and sealed if you put them in water up to the first joint height.
Heavy-ish though. Not CF.
Holds the camera steady.

Rene (sorry for spelling) you're right--image controls the camera height. My perception--don't use centre column comes from wearing out my first cheap tripod that wasn't very high to start, and was quite shaky with the centre column extended.

Chose my current tripod for studio use and cost. It's a lousy choice today (no studio use.) It's very heavy, and very tall.

DANATTHEROCK wrote in post #10655908
Agreed. I am 6'6" and choose the Feisol in my signature for this very reason. Rock solid, compact, light, goes to the ground for macro since there is no center column. Just a perfect tripod for me.

Cool I'm 6' 9,5" or 207cm like we say here and i got a crappy tripod currently because i want one that will fit me and not something I'll replace in 6 months.

How high is the Feisol one you're using?

Gitzo's have a lifetime warranty, if that's important to you. I have a travel 1541t, and that was a factor over the Feisol for me.

Gitzo really is the best. I have owned
mine for over 35 years and no trouble.