Tripod Leg Locks
Jan 23, 2017 09:15:46 #
I have used both - thought I preferred twist lock until one day, with camera attached, a leg collapsed. With flip lock - when you flip it is fixed - and you know when it is flipped and fixed, whereas with twist there is no such indication, and for safety you might over twist - and wear the twist action out.
Jan 23, 2017 09:16:13 #
Architect1776 wrote:
I prefer flip locks as I have used both and had twist locks jamb from grunge getting into them.
But both are good just prefer the dependability of flip and ease of use for weaker or damaged hands. I can use the palm of the hand to operate them and I know they are tight once locked.
But both are good just prefer the dependability of flip and ease of use for weaker or damaged hands. I can use the palm of the hand to operate them and I know they are tight once locked.
I have never used a ball head. Would someone tell me what advantage it provides? It seems like I can get any angle I want with a pan/tilt head.
Jan 23, 2017 09:24:36 #
aellman wrote:
I have never used a ball head. Would someone tell me what advantage it provides? It seems like I can get any angle I want with a pan/tilt head.
I prefer pan-tilt heads. Tried a ball for a while as a loaner and hated it. I like having the handles and the ability to lock one axis and free the other independently.
if I want both free I can.
Jan 23, 2017 10:02:35 #
I have both twist legs and flip lock. I have an old aluminum Bogen tripod with flip lock and a newer Induro carbon graphite tripod with the twist legs. My take is that twist legs are a little faster than flip legs. If operated properly both leg types are secure and have presented no issues. I do think, however, that if tripods are made from the same materials that flip locks are a little heaver than twist locks.
Jan 23, 2017 10:24:42 #
JR45 wrote:
I have had trouble with ball heads supporting heavy telephoto lens. Prefer pan/tilt heads.
I can't imagine using a pan/tilt head with my 500mm f4.0 trying to photograph wildlife. In fact, I can't imagine using a pan/tilt for anything. If you've had trouble with ball heads not supporting heavy telephoto lens, you didn't use a quality ball head.
Jan 23, 2017 10:26:10 #
SteveLew wrote:
I have both twist legs and flip lock. I have an old aluminum Bogen tripod with flip lock and a newer Induro carbon graphite tripod with the twist legs. My take is that twist legs are a little faster than flip legs. If operated properly both leg types are secure and have presented no issues. I do think, however, that if tripods are made from the same materials that flip locks are a little heaver than twist locks.
Just maybe heavier - but certainly bulkier - as are pan & tilt heads.
Jan 23, 2017 10:30:01 #
jackpi
Loc: Southwest Ohio
RichardTaylor wrote:
I found that twist loocks are very hard to tighten when your hands are wet so my pereference is flip locks (I have used both).
I don't have that problem with my RRS tripod. I suspect that depends on the tripod quality.
Jan 23, 2017 10:31:59 #
jackpi wrote:
I don't have that problem with my RRS tripod. I suspect that depends on the tripod quality.
Jan 23, 2017 10:48:04 #
Golden Rule wrote:
What are the pros/cons to flip locks versus twist locks on the tripod legs?
Both are good. I have 2 tripods, 1 of each. I like the flip locks because they are faster to setup but I've pinched my hands in them several times. I like the twists on the carbon fibre legs though. I just think they are a better design for carbon fibre.
Jan 23, 2017 11:06:53 #
Mike D. wrote:
If you aren't terribly hung up on a name (and cons... (show quote)
I checked on the Vanguard website & couldn't find a Vanguard Alta Pro 263CP - just 263AP, AB or AT - could you clarify which one you chose or perhaps it is no longer available? Thanks...
Jan 23, 2017 11:11:12 #
I've been using Manfrotto tripods and have had nothing but trouble with the twist locks. The shims fall out. One day out birding and the pod needs repair again. The flip locks are what I've gone to and have never had a problem with them.
Jan 23, 2017 11:39:58 #
aellman wrote:
I have never used a ball head. Would someone tell me what advantage it provides? It seems like I can get any angle I want with a pan/tilt head.
A ball head is just a lot faster to adjust, as you just have one knob to adjust movements, as opposed to two, which makes it a lot easier to follow (and adjust) moving targets for example!
Jan 23, 2017 11:42:02 #
As one who has a closet full of 'bargains', I've learned, the hard way, that getting top-of-the-line with this kind of gear is the best way to go as well as the least expensive way in the long run. In these cases I recommend Really Right Stuff (RRS) as the best of the best. Very expensive and worth every penny. On the issue of flip vs. twist locks I can say that while I would prefer flip locks, over time they become problematic. Twist locks are the way to go. I would guess that's why RRS only uses them. Best of luck.
Jan 23, 2017 11:43:16 #
I have also used both. Flip locks are faster and less likely to pinch my fingers.
Jan 23, 2017 11:44:08 #
cjc2 wrote:
As one who has a closet full of 'bargains', I've l... (show quote)
While its true what you're saying, good stuff don't always has to be expensive!
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