Lightweight Tripod for Hiking
May 27, 2014 14:28:28 #
I've done a search and found a lot of threads about tripods, but none that really satisfy my specific needs.
I'm looking for an extremely lightweight tripod that will extend to at least 4 feet, and collapse down to 1 foot. It only needs to support my small point-and-shoot camera (Canon S110). I've tried several now, and they all work, but I think there must be a better solution out there. Money is not a concern. I am willing to spend whatever it cost, provided it meets at least most of my needs. Weight is a huge concern as I want to carry as little weight as possible.
I currently own the AGFA 42-Inch, 8 Section Retractable Leg Travel Tripod, but it broke after using it the second time. You get what you pay for, and this is a perfect example.
I'm really looking for someone who has first hand experience with whatever is suggested. Please don't suggest something you have not tried or at least not seen demonstrated. Thanks in advance.
I'm looking for an extremely lightweight tripod that will extend to at least 4 feet, and collapse down to 1 foot. It only needs to support my small point-and-shoot camera (Canon S110). I've tried several now, and they all work, but I think there must be a better solution out there. Money is not a concern. I am willing to spend whatever it cost, provided it meets at least most of my needs. Weight is a huge concern as I want to carry as little weight as possible.
I currently own the AGFA 42-Inch, 8 Section Retractable Leg Travel Tripod, but it broke after using it the second time. You get what you pay for, and this is a perfect example.
I'm really looking for someone who has first hand experience with whatever is suggested. Please don't suggest something you have not tried or at least not seen demonstrated. Thanks in advance.
May 27, 2014 14:31:56 #
BTW: I've also looked at the Tamrac TR404 ZipShot Mini Tripod, but it doesn't allow me to adjust the legs once they are fully extended. Sometimes I shoot on sloped or uneven terrain, so it would be really nice to adjust the legs independently.
May 27, 2014 14:52:42 #
wffwii
Loc: Colorado
I picked up a Promaster XC525 and hiked with it over the weekend and already fell in love with it. It's littler brother, the XC522 might be just what you're looking for.
May 27, 2014 15:04:20 #
I'm using a MeFoto and they come in small enough size pack. They also have good quick disconnect.
RegisG
RegisG
May 27, 2014 15:20:34 #
Dolica. I have the aluminum one, but they also have a carbon fiber that I have not tried.
Had it for a year now and it's totally capable of handling a D3100 w/70-300 lens. Center column can be reversed or removed. 2.5 pounds, 12.5 inches folded. The included ball head is (I think) equal to Manfrotto quality, locks tightly and is smaller than the Manfrotto 494RC2.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009YE462G/?tag=googhydr-20&hvadid=46894110185&hvpos=1t1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=331051505602646709&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_3plw9q063v_e
EDIT: Also available for $20 less ($60) at Costco. Add $3 surcharge if you're not a member.
http://www.costco.com/Dolica-Reversible-Traveler-57%22-Tripod-with-Integratable-Monopod.product.100073661.html
Had it for a year now and it's totally capable of handling a D3100 w/70-300 lens. Center column can be reversed or removed. 2.5 pounds, 12.5 inches folded. The included ball head is (I think) equal to Manfrotto quality, locks tightly and is smaller than the Manfrotto 494RC2.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009YE462G/?tag=googhydr-20&hvadid=46894110185&hvpos=1t1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=331051505602646709&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=e&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_3plw9q063v_e
EDIT: Also available for $20 less ($60) at Costco. Add $3 surcharge if you're not a member.
http://www.costco.com/Dolica-Reversible-Traveler-57%22-Tripod-with-Integratable-Monopod.product.100073661.html
May 27, 2014 15:24:35 #
mdorn wrote:
The closest I could come was a Sony VCT-R100, but it collapses to only 14" and extends to 40". It is well made, easy to use, cheap and weighs under 2 pounds.....I'm looking for an extremely lightweight tripod that will extend to at least 4 feet, and collapse down to 1 foot.
May 27, 2014 16:05:55 #
Great suggestions so far! Thanks guys! I really like the MeFoto, but if I want to keep the weight down, then I'll have to go with a shorter version (the Day Trip). The Promaster XC522 looks like I can have my cake and eat it too. Both really nice and under 2lbs. Gosh, if I can find something less than 1 lbs, I'd be completely thrilled. The Sony VCT-R100 looks pretty light as well, but I think it might take up too much room in my pack? Decisions, decisions...
Thanks again for taking the time to respond. -Mark
Thanks again for taking the time to respond. -Mark
May 27, 2014 16:13:16 #
mdorn wrote:
I bought mine to put in carry on luggage for a trip to Europe.....The Sony VCT-R100 looks pretty light as well, but I think it might take up too much room in my pack?
May 27, 2014 16:21:22 #
mdorn wrote:
Great suggestions so far! Thanks guys! I really li... (show quote)
I've had the Mefoto for a couple of years and drag it around a lot of rough terrain. I like that it folds up like the Travel Angel (same company) into a small package to go in backpack or flight carryon. I keep an extra sock in my bag so I can fill it with rocks when I get where I'm going to stabilize the thing if it's windy or on uneven ground.
May 27, 2014 16:22:49 #
B&H has a tripod selector system where you can put in various parameters.
The lightest and smallest includes a ball head, Arca Swiss plate, folds to 11.8 inches, extends to 54", weighs 1.5 pounds, supports 13 pounds and is made of carbon fiber.
I have not tried it or seen it demonstrated, but B&H guarantees everything.
The lightest and smallest includes a ball head, Arca Swiss plate, folds to 11.8 inches, extends to 54", weighs 1.5 pounds, supports 13 pounds and is made of carbon fiber.
I have not tried it or seen it demonstrated, but B&H guarantees everything.
May 27, 2014 17:22:43 #
mdorn wrote:
BTW: I've also looked at the Tamrac TR404 ZipShot Mini Tripod, but it doesn't allow me to adjust the legs once they are fully extended. Sometimes I shoot on sloped or uneven terrain, so it would be really nice to adjust the legs independently.
Thank you for posting this thread, I share your interest. I have been investigating (no first hand experience yet) the monopods with extension tripod feet, but (as you mention your desire) the feet don't seem to adjust for slopes.
My needs differ in my wanting a "walking staff" for hiking, so your parameter of 12" is a distinction.
Thanks again, I look forward to your results!;)
(I may need to post a separate thread to research my specific needs).
May 27, 2014 17:29:37 #
RegisG wrote:
I'm using a MeFoto and they come in small enough size pack. They also have good quick disconnect.
RegisG
RegisG
Yes! Mine fold to about 12", so it fits right into a backpack.
May 27, 2014 17:32:46 #
May 27, 2014 21:10:18 #
May 28, 2014 06:10:44 #
mdorn wrote:
I've done a search and found a lot of threads abou... (show quote)
Out of the box on this one - have you considered a GorillaPod? I use their biggest one with my DSLR and when I wrap it around a tree or a rock, I have the sturdiest tripod on the planet.
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