Best tripod to use with Nikon D300s and 300 2.8 VRII lens

What would be the best tripod to use with the 300 2.8 VRII lens?
Of course, looking for least weight and most solid tripod.
Thanks for taking the time to reply to this question.

May

Not sure that there's a "best", any more than there's a "best" lens or a "best" camera, but a really good one would be a used Gitzo 1325.


Kent in SD

Agree completely with Kent. I used a G1325 (that I was lucky to find locally used) with a Really Right Stuff BH-55 ball head and Whimberly Sidekick.

I have been using a used Gitzo 1325 with a RRS 55 BH for a few years. The only item I was not totally pleased with and changed was the ball-head clamp. I changed it out for a screw knob type.

May, I'm not a fan of the twist-type legs, but much prefer the lever-style. much easier and quicker to set up, imo, and less chance of setting incompletely.

I'm also not a fan of high Gitzo prices.

I've been VERY happy with the Bogen/Manfrotto lever-style tripods. Excellent customer service too.
For your 300 (if you're pretty sure you won't go to a 500) this might be just what you need:

http://www.ephotocraft.com/itemdesc.asp?ic=719821286684 (pro-3)
The pro-4 , if you need 4 sections, is excellent too. Both are Carbon-fiber, and lightweight but stable.

I also like that the Bogens allow shooting about 6 inches off the ground with their special center column that swings horizontal.

I have the largest Bogen, for use with my D300s and 500 mm. .

If you don't mind the twisty-things, consider the excellent FEISOL tripods -

My 2 cents!

sandy r

http://www.ephotocraft.com/itemdesc.asp?ic=719821286684

Now that Gitzos have the anti twist built into their legs, they are just about as fast setting up as lever type. I can unscrew all three knobs on each leg at once on my tripod and extend them in a hurry if need be.