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Forums · UKNP

Tripod options for 500mm?

Discussion

11 replies
Posted by Neil Burton on March 4, 2011 at 10:41 AM
I am looking at upgrading my Velbon for a more stable model. The Gitzo 5541LS is looking fave at the moment but would love to hear if there is a viable alternative, for less money of course?

Cheers.
N
Posted by Paul King on March 4, 2011 at 12:00 PM
If you are really after a stable and well made Tripod then the Gitzo 5541ls is a brilliant contender in fact a winner.
Use one with a 600mm and it is rock steady in all conditions.. :wavey:
Posted by Neil Burton on March 4, 2011 at 12:13 PM
3541LS is a touch shorter but that is no biggie I don't think. I know Mr Kats has one, can't be that bad.

On the subject of heads. I have a sidekick and a Benro head, which gets a bit of sticktion when panning and also my Manfrotto 393, which is OK but I have heard they vibrate more than wimberly or a good ball head?

Cheers guys.
Posted by SandyRichardsBrown on March 4, 2011 at 8:01 PM
Feisols. Sturdy dependable and much less than gitzo. Do a search of the main forums for ideas the last time this topic came up.
Sandy
Posted by David Kjaer on March 5, 2011 at 6:56 AM
Hi Neil

Another vote for the 3 series Gitzo fine for a 500mm and much lighter than the 5 series, You might also like to take a look at the equivalent Benro much cheaper and very good quality.

David
Posted by Neil Burton on March 5, 2011 at 10:33 AM
Benro, I got one of their heads, not completely sure I want to invest more in their stuff ;) and I have a friend with a Feisol, which fell to pieces, twice (glue problem). So I would not do the cheap thing this time around.

Cheers for the input.
Posted by David Sewell on March 7, 2011 at 8:21 AM
I raised this topic not so long ago, and ended up buying a Gitzo 5541LS. I have never regretted that decision, although I will admit that it gets heavy after you have been carrying it a while. Chunky it may be, but it is well made and as steady as a rock.

David
Posted by Neil Burton on March 7, 2011 at 9:01 AM
Cheers, I ordered the 3541LS after some thought.
Posted by Edwin kats on March 8, 2011 at 3:25 PM
Good choice mr Burton. I'm 6 foot 3 and it's fine. It's also light and compact to travel with. You will not regret. Stay away from Feisol, Benro or Redged. It looks fine in the beginning but they will not last longer then 3 years. They are just not build for the job.

Enjoy your Gitzo.

Edwin Twats
Posted by Neil Burton on March 9, 2011 at 4:42 AM
I will Mr Kats, just hope this makes me a great photographer :biggrin:
Posted by Edwin kats on March 9, 2011 at 7:23 AM
It will sure make your photographs greater :biggrin:

Keep up the good work!

Edwin
Posted by Neil Burton on March 9, 2011 at 3:04 PM
Arrived today, damn, it is more than enough the 5 series must be made for giants. Brilliant!