Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

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morenoar
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p.1 #1 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

Okay, it is an oximoron since I just put good $$ on the 400 2.8 and worried about a tripod breaking my bank. But I would love suggestions on what is a good-steardy and not to expensive Tripod. I do have a monopod for the lens, but while I traveled to pick up the lense, i saw opportunities to shoot but monopod would not help much. Low SS would be required. Thank you all for your inputs

Jan 29, 2012 at 12:14 AM

sjms
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p.1 #2 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

well whats in the bank? you dropped a few grand on the glass whats it worth to you to hold it up properly now? don't forget in addition to the legs you gotta get a head.

Jan 29, 2012 at 12:19 AM

morenoar
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p.1 #3 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

sjms, thanks for the input. I want all the information you all can give and go from there. I am new to this type of Glass and don't want an OOOPPPSSSS on it, so come to the BEST place for advice

Jan 29, 2012 at 12:21 AM

sjms
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p.1 #4 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

well here's what i use with my own 300/2.8 and any large lenses i use up to 500
(1) RRS TVC-33 legset
(1) RRS BH-55 ballhead
(1) Wimberley Sidekick
(1) appropriate arca swiss type adapter plate or replacement foot for attachment
(1) optional leveling base for tripod head

This image is copyrighted by the owner

now there are various other equipment makers out there with varying pricing. this is the tippy top of the heap.

gitzo
induro
kirk
markins
others too.
you do get what you pay for in the long run

Jan 29, 2012 at 12:28 AM

RoyC
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p.1 #5 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

For my 500 MM lens I use a Wimberley Gimbal with a set of Gitzo GT5541 legs. This should be adequate for your 400 as well.

What good are blurred images?

Jan 29, 2012 at 03:17 AM

rprouty
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p.1 #6 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

Sold my Gitzo GT5541 and replaced it with a Dutchhill tripod. Works great with my 500 and 800mm lens.

Jan 29, 2012 at 03:40 AM

sjms
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p.1 #7 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

D3, 300/2.8, 1.7x extender (500mm equivelent) on the rig in image above. chasing planes

remember here is where the so called "accessories" become an integral part of the system synergistically. your choices will have a direct overall affect on the end image.

a tripod setup is a tool of composition.

2012 © sjms

Jan 29, 2012 at 12:35 PM

DGC1
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p.1 #8 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

To save money, look for an older used Gitzo aluminum tripod. Yes they are heavier than the state of the art carbon fiber ones but they are also about 1/3 the cost. I have a 1410 with a full Wimberley version I. I bought them both new several years ago and I've never looked back.

Jan 29, 2012 at 03:42 PM

Smiert Spionam
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p.1 #9 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

You could consider Gitzo aluminum (like the series 4 that DGC1 has recommended), the big Feisols, or a Berlebach wooden tripod, all of which are good quality alternatives to RRS or Gitzo carbon fiber legs. The Dutch Hill legs look interesting, too. All are very decent, but if you find yourself craving a premium setup in six months, they'll end up costing you more than if you just buy right the first time.

Jan 29, 2012 at 04:26 PM

sjms
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p.1 #10 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

agreed with all depending on your actual needs.

Jan 29, 2012 at 06:02 PM

bobbytan
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p.1 #11 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

I think the Feisol carbon fiber tripods give you the best bang for the buck and they have a 3-year international warranty, and I would think that any model from 22 lbs up (max load/capacity) should work:

http://reallybigcameras.com/Feisol/Tripods

Also check out their Photoclam Pro Gold II ballheads:

http://reallybigcameras.com/PhotoClam/Pro_Gold_II.htm

I have only used a Feisol briefly a long time ago (didn't have any problem with it but decided to go with Gitzo) and have not used another one since .... although I did order their CT-3401 as I need a lightweight tripod for travel.

Jan 29, 2012 at 08:16 PM

Smiert Spionam
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p.1 #12 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

I like Feisol a lot, too, but I would add a caveat: some of those rated at 22 pounds are the 3441/34412 variants, which have 28mm lengs (Gitzo series 2). That's not going to cut it with a 400/2.8.

The bigger models (3371/3471/etc.) are a much better choice. I believe SJMS used one before he switched to RRS for his long lens setup.

Jan 29, 2012 at 08:45 PM

sjms
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p.1 #13 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

yes the newer model CT-3372 is a substantial improvement over my original model which wasn't all that bad to begin with
http://www.feisol.net/feisol-elite-tripod-ct3372-rapid-p-57.html

Jan 29, 2012 at 08:55 PM

mogud
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p.1 #14 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

I use the following to support my 500 f/4 IS and a gripped 7D:

Gitzo 3531
Induro BHD 3
Wimberley Sidekick
Wimberley P50

The ballhead is rated for 55lbs and is very smooth with the Sidekick and the 500. The above will cost around $1300 plus taxes/shipping from B&H and will support your 400 f/2.8 quite nicely. Other ballheads will be more expensive such as Kirk, Arca Swiss and RRS and are all highly recommended. Plan on spending at least this much and I would also recommend a leveling tripod base given the weight of your 400mm. Add and extra $175+ for the base.

Hopefully, this hasn't/won't break the bank.

Jan 29, 2012 at 10:19 PM

runamuck
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p.1 #15 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

Feisol 3372 or 3472. 37MM legs and a spider machined from a solid billet. Lesser spiders are cast metal. 28MM legs won't cut it for a 400 f2.8 lens.

When it comes to ballheads, the bigger the ball, the better. You have more area for the friction surfaces to grip.

Send an email to Really big cameras and ask which ballhead.

Jan 29, 2012 at 10:28 PM

timstree
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p.1 #16 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

I purchased a new 300 2.8 VR11 and the first time I tried to mount it onto my sidekick I dropped it onto a wooden floor. Lucky it bounced without any damage. I think it bounced off the lens hood.

I put it in the cupboard untill I upgraded my support gear. Full Gimberly on one of the new Manfrotto 507 tripods with 39mm CF legs (I don't like twistlocks).

Time to take it out and start using it.

Cheers

Tim in Aus

Jan 29, 2012 at 11:04 PM

sjms
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p.1 #17 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

i've used mine on long lenses with a sidekick for 6 or so years now. unless it physically broke don't try to blame the tool.

Jan 30, 2012 at 12:06 AM

timstree
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p.1 #18 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

It was not my intention to blame anything other than me being clumsy.

I have used my sidekick with a 70/200 for a number of years.

I just got caught out with the extra weight.

Sorry if I gave the wrong impression.

Tim

Jan 30, 2012 at 12:34 AM

sjms
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p.1 #19 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

forgive me if i misunderstood the situation. there was no details as to the cause but we did get the effect.

Jan 30, 2012 at 01:09 AM

morenoar
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p.1 #20 · Tripod for 400 2.8 but won't break the bank

Thank you all for your GREAT ideas. I have a lot to chose from and will make sure to buy NOT CHEAP.

Jan 30, 2012 at 02:39 AM


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