Lightweight, strong tripod?

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StarNut
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p.1 #1 · Lightweight, strong tripod?

I have a Gitzo GT3541LS tripod, which I like a great deal.

But it's large/bulky for hiking with, and sometimes isn't happy about fitting in a small suitcase when flying.

I would like a very lightweight tripod that would effectively hold a Canon 5D Mark III/70-200 f/2.8 lens, and which folds into a small package.

I've looked, and seen some, but I would appreciate suggestions from people who have used them like this.

Thanks!

Mark

Jul 26, 2012 at 07:11 PM

nma
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p.1 #2 · Lightweight, strong tripod?

Feisol 3442 without center post. 'Need a right-sized ball head to exploit minimum size when folded, about 18 in. I have used this successfully with 5Dii and up to canon 100-400 F4-5.6 zoom when the winds are not too high. It's a problem in a strong wind because the lens and lens hood have a large profile. Otherwise this is a very light but rigid setup, just over 3 lb complet with photoclam 40 ball head for travel/hiking (folded) and the Acratech ultimate (doesn't fold) for shoots that don't require much walking. This rig easily fits into a standard 22 in carry on.

Jul 27, 2012 at 01:25 AM

jcolwell
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p.1 #3 · Lightweight, strong tripod?

I use a Gitzo GT-0540 CF + RRS BH-25 mini head for travel. In fact, I'm taking it with me to Utah in two days, for a month of photomatography. I'll be using it with a 1DIV and medium weight lens, like a 100-400L or a Mamiya A 120/4 Macro on Contax focus rail (both about 6.2lb total weight). The tripod + head weight is about 2.0 lb.

Of course, in the wind, it blows...

Jul 27, 2012 at 02:00 AM

Lars Johnsson
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p.1 #4 · Lightweight, strong tripod?

I also own the GT3541LS tripod. But when flying or not needing a larger tripod I use my Gitzo Mountaineer GT 1541 tripod. It's good and stable for the body/lens you have. There is a travel version of it if you like it to be smaller (1541T)

Jul 27, 2012 at 06:41 AM

dld542004
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p.1 #5 · Lightweight, strong tripod?

Manfrotto 055cx lightweight and carbon fiber

Jul 27, 2012 at 01:10 PM

StarNut
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p.1 #6 · Lightweight, strong tripod?

Thanks guys; very helpful!!

Jul 27, 2012 at 02:06 PM

SSISteve
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p.1 #7 · Lightweight, strong tripod?

I agree about the Feisol. It is one of the best choices if you are wanting compact and light. Great choice.

Aug 02, 2012 at 03:29 AM

15Bit
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p.1 #8 · Lightweight, strong tripod?

I've a Feisol 3442, and whilst i wouldn't describe it as amazingly compact it is damned light, stable and pretty tall.

Aug 02, 2012 at 08:14 PM

ben egbert
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p.1 #9 · Lightweight, strong tripod?

Do you really need a ball head? For landscapes I don't. My camera has a rt angle plate so all I need is a mount and a way to get level. I checked with RRS and this combo will work.

TQC-14, 2.7 pounds.
Leveling base with clamp, TA-2-LC. 14.1 Oz.

All up weight 3.6 pounds.

15 degrees of motion adjustment and a quick lock. Supports 15 pounds.

Aug 03, 2012 at 02:07 PM

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