The Accurate Reloading Forums
Tripod search
21 December 2020, 01:27
Race BannonTripod search
Looking for a tripod for range use and hunting.
I have a Leupold 20-60x80
Not sure of what to look for as far as leg locks, head types or other things I'm not familiar with.
Would like one that can be used sitting and standing so something that could go around 6' would be preferred.
Weight would be another consideration. Not an issue for range use but nothing heavy for a back country hunt.
Been looking at these
https://cameralandny.com/shop/...ON%20FIBER-%20SILVER.
Anyone have any comments, suggestions or recommendations?
21 December 2020, 05:14
richjI have 2 Bogen/manfrotto tripods with ball heads. Not quite 6'. They are aluminum.
What I look for most:
lever locks instead of screw collets on the legs.
quick connect plates .
21 December 2020, 07:31
BaxterBThe best pan head is the outdoorsmans.
Their tripods are good as well. I’ve used SLIK 624 carbon fiber and it’s a very nice.
25 December 2020, 00:31
skl1Really Right Stuff makes very expensive, but very strong carbon fiber tripod. Feisol makes a tall, strong, carbon fiber tripod that costs significantly less (though still a lot).
25 December 2020, 09:44
Race BannonIn researching tripods I've come across many makes that I've never heard of.
With that, there are many opinions as to which is best.
I have no way to try or look at the majority of what people are mentioning.
It's rather frustrating trying to make a decision that is going to cost a substantial amount of money without being able to get a first hand experience with the product.
Thanks for the replies so far.
26 December 2020, 01:51
secondtryWhat you are looking for doesn't exist, unfortunately.
Tall enough to stand behind whilst having sufficient rigidity will not be light. Nor would it be cheap. I have been able to stand behind mine, but I am short, and having the tripods extended so far was usable, but not ideal. 6' tripod would suit at least a 6'4", maybe 6'6" person.
Sirui and Slik both make reasonably priced, good quality tripods.
If you can compromise on the height a little, either of those two makers should have something stiff enough for your spotter and weighing maybe 2.5/3.00 lbs.
Keep an open mind on the legs locks. I was a flip lock fan for years, despite having a couple break on one cheap Manfrotto. Now I have a C/F Slik with the twist locks, and these particular twist locks work very well, and for me, are more convenient than flip locks. They are are an external ring, not rotating legs.
I agree with the Outdoorsmans pan head (not the micro pan head) suggestion. You can probably find a cheaper head, but this one is very good, and light.
26 December 2020, 21:37
Use Enough GunRace: Call Outdoorsmans in Phoenix and talk with them about what you are looking for. I found out about them while hunting in Mexico for coues deer with my U.S. guides from Arizona, who had most of their gear from Outdoorsmans. I am sure that they could answer any questions that you have.
28 December 2020, 19:06
skl1Race,
I got all my info hanging out with some PRS shooters. They put Arca rails on their 16 or 20 pound rifles and then shoot them off of their carbon fiber tripods using the photography arca rail clamps on the ball heads. But obviously they also swap in spotters and spotting binoculars.
FWIW, the Really Right Stuff ball heads are the "go to" brand, but really expensive. They were built for guns, but have now started backwards marketing to the high-end photography market that is where all these tripods and arca rail accessories originated. Really Right Stuff tripods are also used a lot, but for half price the Feisol carbon fiber still holds a 16 to 20 pound rifle, or a spotting scope and I can get behind it comfortably at 6'5". Manfrotto tripods are also well-thought of.
Suggest you go find some of these PRS or long-range shooters and see if you can't get behind their gear and see what you like. But beware the giant sucking sound you hear coming from your wallet!
HTH
Steve
29 December 2020, 04:20
UtahLeftyThis is the one you want, IMO.
https://www.peakdesign.com/pages/travel-tripodIt's well thought out, compact, and rated at something like 20#. Sets up from 6" to 6'.
I have at least 10 tripods, some cheap, some "compact" , some full sized Boegens and Manfrotos and the Peak Design is by far my favorite.
It also has a lifetime warranty.
My biggest problem has been hanging onto the thing. I'm on my third one as they keep getting left with guides after some strong hints or outright asks...
-UtahLefty
29 December 2020, 06:00
Race BannonGood suggestions guys.
Thanks to all
30 December 2020, 17:03
ClaymanRace - I recently found myself in the same situation and decided to give Doug @ Cameraland a call during one of his "snowstorm" sales. I just bought a similar spotter and wanted a tripod that was smooth and stable. After some back and forth on options, I purchased this:
Sirui TripodGot it about a week ago, and while it's still new and I'm proving it out, I have to say it's excellent! Very smooth, strong adjustments, and supports the weight of an 80mm spotter perfectly. Plus, it's on sale until the end of the year. I'd give him a call if you haven't purchased anything yet.
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