pbcbob Loc: Delray Beach, FL

I recently purchased the listed lens and like the results though I must admit that it is restrictive and heavy especially if one is walking. I am using a Nest Gimbal head with which I am very satisfied but would like to upgrade my Promaster tripod. Any ideas or suggestions? As these lenses are approximately the same weight, input from Nikon, Canon, Fuji and all other users/manufacturer's is welcome.

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

Are you looking for a stable set of legs, or just a way to keep the tripod from collapsing under the load?

If it is the latter - you probably have what you need.

If it is the former, look for a tripod with a top tube section that is no less than 37mm in diameter - Really Right Stuff Series 4 and Gitzo Series 5 are both over 40mm. RRS Series 3 and Gitzo Series 4 are 37-39mm and suitable for your application.

This will explain what you need to know about selecting a tripod, especially the part where magnification and not total load is the better criteria for selecting a tripod. These recommendations apply to just about all tripods - thicker legs usually mean more stability. As does no center column, and carbon fiber for the leg material.

http://www.reallyrightstuff.com/Guides-Support-for-Tripods

If you find a tripod with similar specs, like a Feisol CT-3472 or 3372 which are roughly equivalent to a Gitzo Series 4 or RRS Series 3, you can save some $$ as these are under $600. I use a CT 3472 with a Nikkor 600mm F4 and a D800 and get decent results.

pbcbob Loc: Delray Beach, FL

Thank you for the reply, especially the 37mm leg tip. I was considering the Feisol model 3442 but the legs may be a bit on the thin side. Same for the Leofoto and Sirui tripods. Take care.

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

I've got both and can tell you the 3442 is an excellent tripod, but not intended for use with a 600mm lens. No worries about the legs collapsing, the tripod is rated for 55 lb load, but it is far from stable. But it's a great travel tripod and I use it for landscape with shorter lenses with no problems.

pbcbob Loc: Delray Beach, FL

Thanks again Gene.
The Leofoto LN 404C is another contender but it may be a bit too big.

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Well, here is one to look at after you have seen the Gitzos, RRS, and Feisols .......just another to consider .....http://www.ebay.com/itm/Horusbennu-HVD-T1800-Professional-Carbon-8X-3-Section-Video-Camera-Tripod-/263092082194? - weighs about 7 lbs.

pbcbob Loc: Delray Beach, FL

Thanks. I will check it out tomorrow.

Bob

queencitysanta Loc: Charlotte, North Carolina

Check with MTShooter on our website and he can be reached at Carter's Camera Cottage. You can take what he tell you to the bank.

queencitysanta Loc: Charlotte, North Carolina

Check with MTShooter on our website and he can be reached at Carter's Camera Cottage. You can take what he tell you to the bank

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

You're welcome.

I took a look at the descriptions of the Leofoto LN 404C and find it to be built like a tank. It's a tall tripod, which means you don't have to extend the lower legs completely, if at all, depending on your height. This makes it even more stable. It does seem to rival the Gitzo series 5 and RRS Series 4 at less than half the price. The only downside I see is the 7.5 lb weight, without a head. I think the others are more like 5 lbs. But at $600, it's a steal if weight is not an issue.

billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont

I owned that lens, very sharp, VERY HEAVY. I used my Induro Alloy 8M, AT413 (big guy, reasonably priced) and a Wimberley head. I was very pleased with the results. That lens by the way is the heaviest 600 ever produced. The colors are outstanding. Good luck.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

Lots of info -

http://www.bythom.com/support.htm
https://digital-photography-school.com/everything-about-tripods-phil-steele/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIWvjfI_-PA
http://digital-photography-school.com/build-ideal-tripod/
http://www.picturecorrect.com/tips/5-pros-and-5-cons-of-using-a-tripod/
http://www.lightstalking.com/tripod-heads/

TomV Loc: Annapolis, Maryland

I used the CT-3471 with that lens and it worked fine for me.

jeep_daddy Loc: Prescott AZ

Gitzo series 3 carbon fiber Systematic.

amfoto1 Loc: San Jose, Calif. USA

Unless you are willing to spend big bucks.... I'd recommend you look for a used Gitzo G1325 Mark II Series 3 Systematic carbon fiber.... It's a great tripod for big lenses like a 600mm. It's sort of the "gold standard" that all others try to copy: Three-section legs, no center column that might effect stability, durable and super reliable, plus there are a number of available accessories. The Systematic utilize various modular components (the Mountaineer, Studex and Reporter series don't have as many options, may have a permanent center column, etc.) Series 3 are rated for around 30 or 35 lb. load capacity, more than enough for a lens and camera around 10 lb., plus the weight of the gimbal head and any other accessories. (Series 2 are too light capacity.... Series 5 can support more, but are pretty hefty to haul around.)

Brand new Gitzo are pretty pricey. I'm not entirely sure, but the modern equivalent is probably the GT3543LS that costs $870. In comparison, a couple years ago I paid $400 including shipping for a used, but like-new G1325 II (off everyone's favorite auction site). Even better, it included and came already fitted with a G1321 Leveling Base, which is a very handy accessory when using a gimbal head. The leveler adds about 1 lb. and maybe 2 inches height, but allows you to set up quickly with the twist of a single handle, rather than having to fiddle adjusting precise leg length every time you move the tripod. The modern equivalent Series 3 Leveling Base (GSLVLS), sells for $195. So all in, by buying used I saved more than 60% off buying brand new items. Granted, the newer models have a few nice, additional features (such as an anti-twist leg profile that makes setup a little easier)... But the old G1325 II still works great (I have another one that's been in use for over 15 years).

The G1325 II is about 58" tall, legs alone. By the time you add a head.... and perhaps a leveling base... the eyeport of a camera ends up at about 65". I'm 5'-9" and this positions the camera well above my eyeline, so I never have to extend my tripod to it's full height. But if you're particularly tall, you might want to consider the Gitzo G1348 II instead. It's from the same time period, can be found for about the same price used and utilizes the same accessories as and is similar in design to the G1325, except the C1348 has four-section legs and stands a bit taller at max extension.... if I recall correctly, nearly 72" with the legs alone.