Gimbal Mounts?

I've been using a Bushhawk/monopod combo but have finally decided to get a sturdy tripod/gimbal mount. So is Wimberly still the gold standard of gimbal mounts? They are definately not the most expensive. I'd love to go with an RRS tripod and gimbal but as a non-pro 99 percenter it's hard to justify. I will mainly be shooting with a Nikkor 200-400 with a prosumer body though different lenses and/or pro body may be in the future. Any thoughts/recommendations will be appreciated.

I have used the Wimberly for well over 20 years. In fact mine is a late prototype I got from Dave, though almost no different than the eventual commercial model other than it's painted gray rather than black.

In any case, I've tried most others and they just weren't for me. Some folks have tried mine and didn't like it as well as theirs. I think it boils down to a "taste" thing, in that you might find one more to your liking than another without regard for others' experiences. Best would be to look for opportunities to try all you can before spending your money.

Hi Dan, I have used the Wimberly for about 15 years. It is smooth and balances nicely with any lens. I have looked at some of the newer offerings like RRS and that are build well also. It is a matter of choice I think. But I still choose the Wimberly. One thing I might advise is when using the 200 to 400 mm get one of the longer Wimberlly extended feet to help postilion the lens,camera, for better balance. I attached a longer foot to the bottom on the regular lens foot.

Sometimes I have a tendency to over analyze things. There are only one or two products that are substantially lower cost than the Wimberly, most others right in the same price range, and RRS and one other substantially higher. For the amount of money and something that will be used for the rest of one's life it's kind of silly to even consider going with anything other than the known quantity. Thanks for the replies to what was upon further reflection an unnecessary post.

I have been using the Jobu Black Widow with my 200-400 for several years, and I am very happy with its quality of construction and design.

I've used the Jobu Black Widow for several years now, I had problems (locking pin broke) with the older model and Jobu was great about sending me the newer model (it has no locking pin) for a small fee. I use it with the 200-400mm VR. Very pleased with it.