Opinions on these tripods?

raider · 11-06-2009, 01:26 AM

I thought I will just start another thread, now that the Slik sprint pro tripod is no longer feasible for my needs. I will need a tripod that can take 1.1kg or so. Budget is A$250 or so.

Could some kind souls please give some opinions on the following tripods?

Manfrotto 7322SHYB with ball head (2kg load capacity)
Manfrotto 7322SHYB M-Y Tripod with Ball Head - Digital Camera Warehouse Australia
A$179

Manfrotto 7321YB with 3 way head (2.5kg load capacity)
Manfrotto 7321YB M-Y Tripod with 3-way Head QR - Digital Camera Warehouse Australia
A$205

Manfrotto 7303YB with ball head (3.5kg load capacity)
Manfrotto 7303YB M-Y Tripod with Ball Head QR - Digital Camera Warehouse Australia
A$245

wlachan · 11-06-2009, 01:44 AM

How about an used Gitzo which will outperform Manfrotto for the same weight & size.

raider · 11-06-2009, 03:15 AM

Yes. A used Gitzo would be nice...but I have yet to find one selling at A$250.

*geauxpez* · 11-06-2009, 05:55 PM

I just sold one in the marketplace here for $240...of course that didn't include the head.

jammy2 · 11-11-2009, 11:44 PM

Seeing as you're in Perth, might want to check out the specials at Camera Electronic
Special - Camera Electronic Sales and Service Perth Western Australia

They had a gitzo g1340 tripod going for $299 in November, not sure if they still have any left though

cheers,
Ken

raider · 11-15-2009, 05:29 AM

Thanks for the heads up. But that tripod is rather heavy actually. Looking for a lightweight tripod which is also affordable.

*calicojack* · 11-15-2009, 06:46 AM

How about the Slik U212 Deluxe (US Name) or the 88M?
SLIK Universal Tripods
I bought one of these years ago when it was marketted as the U212AF with Slik's AF2100 head on the same legs. It's very versatile and solid. I don't use it that often, but mine is around 20 years old and still solid as a rock! It was too light for my 4X5 field camera, but it has never presented a problem with 35mm, even with a heavy zoom lens (ie Vivitar Series 1 70-210 version 3 or lately with my K10 & Sigma 135-400)

raider · 11-15-2009, 09:48 PM

Thanks for the link.

Hmm...weight is 2.56kg...way too much for wifey

*LeDave* · 11-16-2009, 12:28 AM

The U212 is heavy but it's built like a tank. Kind of a trade-off there, certainly wouldn't want to carry it around all day, but otherwise it would make a great sturdy and steady tripod.

nanok · 11-16-2009, 04:46 AM

what are you going to be using it for? unless it's a point and shoot, i am afraid you need something more serious than those (more in the 2kg weight range, and i am talking about the tripods weight, not the nearly irrelevant maximum weight it will hold - rating). the head should have a quick release system, if you are planning to actually use the tripod, and it would be nice if it was a ballhead in general (but depends on your intended usage, ymmv). alo, imho, variable leg angles are essential. maybe have a look at the new benro travel line, they seem sturdy and relatively light, also have a look at slick, but the "higher" models, they seem to be quite afordable lately.

i am afraid this is not what you wanted to hear, hope this helps though

*Mallee Boy* · 11-17-2009, 03:04 PM

Originally Posted by raider

Thanks for the link.

Hmm...weight is 2.56kg...way too much for wifey

Check out the Slik CF 713. My wife's choice after considering height, weight and ease of use. She added the Tristar PG 01 head which is similar to the Slik pistol grip head.....but a lot cheaper.
Cheers
Grant

raider · 11-18-2009, 06:59 AM

I am using the Slik 614CF myself. The weight is okay for both me and myself but the cost is slightly more than our current budget for a 2nd tripod for wifey. Was looking at other alternative.

Alfisti · 11-18-2009, 07:30 AM

I can't go past Feisol, carbon fibre, well built, light, clever and crazy prices.

Cannot speak highly enough of them.