E.L.. Shapiro Loc: Ottawa, Ontario Canada

"Little things mean a lot" and avoiding the "weakest link in the chain" is important in tripod selection.

Suppose you are considering an apparently solid, and stable tripod with seemingly good construction and sturdy legs. The next thing to examine is the little details such as the locking devices on each leg section. Make certain the theses locking mechanisms are positive and not likely to strip or fail even if slightly over tightened. On some modes, the entire locking assemblies can be easily replaced if they become worn or damaged. The lever or thumbscrews should have ample wings, knobs, or handles for easy locking and unlocking. With sleeve type of leg locks, see that they operate smoothly, can be easily cleaned out and lubricated if they become wet or soiled, and lock positively without the necessity of overtightening.

Make sure the legs are attached to the central platform with serviceable nuts and bolts- not fore fitted or rivet-like fastenings.

I prefer if the screw shaft that meshes with the head to be of the 3/8 X 16 UNC type rather than the 1/4 X20.

Don't place a cheap flimsy head on a good tripod, that defeats its purpose in various ways.

Technique counts- Even the best tripod and head combination can not provide the best support and buffer all by itself. Placing it, spreading the legs, and setting it up properly and applying the buffering methods that Gene alluded to is important.

Good care- Many folks have posted mentioning that they are successfully using their tripods for many years without issue. I would bet that they are providing good maintenance and practicing good user habits. Keep your tripod clean a lubricated. Do not secure the head or the camera in place by turning the assembly by grasping the camera or the head and using it for extra torque or leverage- something's gonna sheer off! Replace faulty parts before they totally fail or fall off.

dennis2146 Loc: Eastern Idaho

My friend who was a professional studio photographer used a Majestic which is where I had seen one. He loved it. One of my favorite uncles gave me what looks two newish 4X5 field cameras and a Century Graphic. The Century needs some repair of the lens but otherwise seems to work fine. Of the 4X5's one is a Winner and I don't recall the other one. Both are in my Idaho house in a box for safe keeping. With this conversation I remembered he also gave me some 4X5 film holders and a 120 roll film adapter for 4X5. When I get back up there in a month or so I might give the roll film adapter a try. He also gave me an old Kodak Medalist that has been fitted to take 120 film rather than 620 film. It is nice having a loving uncle.

I will try the 4X5 on the Induro. It seems pretty sturdy and of course it won't have a long lens to balance out the front.

Thank you Gene,

Dennis

dennis2146 Loc: Eastern Idaho

If you are talking to me I thank you.

Dennis

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

My pleasure. Weight is not a problem, and if you are using a lens in the range of 120mm to 150mm - you should be fine. One of the biggest and least understood sources of camera shake when mounted on a tripod is shutter shock - and it affects any camera with a mechanical shutter, including mirrorless. The leaf shutters on view camera lenses don't have this problem, which is why I think you'll be fine with the Induro. But don't take my word for it, just try it and see if it works for you.

dennis2146 Loc: Eastern Idaho

Of course. I will give it a try when I get back up there and see how it goes. Thanks.

Dennis

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

You only NEED to buy what you WANT to buy. (Or, is it the other way around.) . What's BEST for a particular purpose is a different question. For me at least, one tripod does not do it all. Best of luck.

dennis2146 Loc: Eastern Idaho

Yes I know that. Thanks.

Dennis

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

Your soo welcome!

latebloomer Loc: Topeka, KS

Great tripod! Look at some Gene51 tripod posts. He knows physics It is vibration instead that is more important than weight. Size of upper reg is also important.

Dennis 221

I like my 3legged thing waston