Another tripod question

[Mog]

I have been attempting to research tripods as much as I can stand and am still not clear on which way to go so I figured I would post what I'm looking for and see if someone can help me out. Looking for:

 

-Going to be used for 15x56 Vortex Kaibabs

-$100-$150 legs

-Would like to use the bogen 700 RC2 pan head

-Would like to be able to stand glassing (I'm 6' tall) and be relatively steady in the light wind

-Would like the leg adjustments to "clamp" rather than "twist" to lock in place

-Would like it to be relatively lightweight but not flimsy (not carbon, generally too expensive)

-Would prefer if the legs could adjust out to any positions rather than the typically 2 "locked" positions (let me know if this is confusing, may be able to explain better)

-Would prefer black color, not sure if silver is too reflective

-Would prefer if the legs were padded

 

It seems several I am considering may fit these requirements but not sure on all the questions. Have considered:

 

-Velbon Sherpa 600

-Slik Sprint Pro II (may be too flimsy)

-Slik 330ez

 

Will the ones I mentioned work for what I want? Does anyone have any other suggestions? If someone has a set-up they are looking to sale and they meet these requirements I am interested.

 

 

[Pine Donkey]

The cabelas 4 section carbon tripod may be what you are looking for. The parts of your description that do not fit are: it is carbon, not aluminum, and price (currently 199 in the bargain cave). I am 6'2" and it is plenty tall. I have been very happy with the two we own.

 

[Santana Outdoors]

 

 

 

 

This is the one I use and really like it. I use it for my 15X56 swarovskis, my Video camera and the Triclawps shooting rest. Works awesome for the price. Highly recommended for your price range

 

 

http://www.paysonoutfitters.com/servlet/th...DX-Black/Detail

[azslim]

may want to look at Vortex tripods too

 

check camera stores, there are some off brands that are real cheap and do just what you want - used one for 20 years before I upgraded

 

cam lock legs make it nice to pull in tight to you during windy days

[Heat]

I have the Slik 340EZ. It will fit all of your needs except the one about standing to glass. I use the stock head for it, but you could put the RC2 head on it if you want to upgrade. I went with the 340 over the 330 EZ because it packs down smaller than the 330. I also use 15x56 Vortex Kaibab's and the Vortex tripod adapter. Very solid and affordable system.

 

Nick

[Mog]

Just wanted to give an update. I went with the Slik 330 EZ tripod and couldn't be happier! I was able to go look at it at Sportsman's Warehouse before I bought it (which was nice). They said they can't hardly hold on to this model and they sell out quick. At approx $130 for the legs and included pan head, I don't think this set up can be beat. Took it out with my Vortex Kaibabs 2 days ago and was pleased. Tripod is sturdy yet lighter than I expected. I can glass standing up by bending down a little bit (6' tall). Head is extremely smooth (which was weird at first because I wasn't used to a smooth head). I only have 1 complaint and it is just personal preference, I feel the pan handle is a little too short. The operating manual claims that you can buy a longer pan handle for this model but I can't find it anywhere. If anyone knows where I can get this optional long pan handle please let me know.

 

Otherwise for someone who doesn't want to spend the money on carbon set-ups I'm not sure this model can be beat. If you go to Sportsmans Warehouse (The Mesa Arizona one) you need to call ahead and see when they will be getting them in. Thanks everyone for your input.