I know some of you are in a similar situation. You have gone to Sony mirrorless E-Mount (A7RIII/A6500 etc) and have Canon EOS EF or EF-S lenses you want to use.

There are at least 2 major brands of adapters to make that happen. The one I am looking at is the Metabones T Smart adapter 5th Generation. Retails for $399 and used for about $100 or so less.

Then there is the Sigma MC-11 which sells for around $250.00.

So looking at reviews, the Metabones is the better of the two and maybe the best way to go.

Who has which and do they work, worth the money and any down-side to using with a Canon lens.

Thanks in advance.

I see you have shared many photos of bald eagles and egrets. There is a vocal contingent of folks on UHH who complain about all the bird photos posted here. Ironic?

Since you're relatively new, you may not have had a chance to check out all the features of the site, including "newest pictures" - a link accessible at the top of every page. Those thumbnail images will help you filter out any subjects not of interest. There are also many specialty forums where you will be unlikely to stumble upon moons or sunsets. Click on "all sections" at the bottom of the page to browse.

And lastly, consider hosting a discussion topic about how to make moon or sunset photos something other than "identical." Please join the small group who would like to see UHH be about learning/sharing/teaching/inspiring and don't align with the grumpy old folks who are here only to complain. Let's learn together!

The Gitzo 3531S is a three leg segment, stable, systematic tripod. You may want to consider the Gitzo 3542LS. It is a four leg segment, stable, systematic tripod. (Neither the 3531S or 3542LS have center columns that decrease stability. A center column can be added.) The 3542LS with a tripod head and camera mounted is tall enough for your comfort. You do not have to bend over. The 3542LS has a removable flat top plate that is secured with an incorporated tightening screw and security release button to prevent inadvertent release of the flat plate. You can purchase an extra flat plate if you rapidly want to switch from one tripod head to another (eg. ballhead to gimble). Gitzo has updated the 3542LS to the 3543LS. They made minimal changes in the new model (added a side screw bushing to the head assembly and changed the leg releases at the head). Rubber feet can be pulled off revealing hidden spikes to adapt to different terrain. However, during testing, the 3542LS dampened vibrations better than the newer 3543LS. If you look around, you can still find the 3542LS. For most, it combines light weight, portability, convenience, stability, adaptability, proper height, and no need to purchase another tripod. As a disclaimer, I have no relationship with Gitzo or any photo manufacturer. After a recent tripod search, I just like the tripod.

Gitzo's numbering system is as follows: 3542LS

1. "3" = series 3 tripod
2. "5" = carbon fiber
3. "4" = number of leg segments
4. "2" = model of the tripod (in this case the "2" replaced the original "1" version)
5. "L" = long model
6. "S" = systematic model (vs. for instance the Mountaineer model with a center column)

I may surprise you, Davet,

but after years of buying high quality hiking boots (shoes) from REI and replacing them in 1-2 years anyway (I hike and backpack a lot) I decided to try something different.
I went to Walmart.
They have a wide variety of boots designed for other activities, but I am sure, you can find there some boots - fitting to your need nicely. They are usually made in China or Brasil and the price is a fraction of what you pay in a sport store.
Your boots have to be comfortable and warm in winter.
The kind I like is in the price range between $40 - $50. I always look for a good lug sole, yellow or light brown color of the synthetic rubber, which doesn't slide easily on a polished floor in the store. I need a good traction on the rocky, sometimes wet terrain.
In about 2-3 years I replace them with a new pair.
I carry a backpack 25-30lb for a day hike and an overnight backpack 50-60+lb. These boots are reasonably waterproofed and I do not need to put any silicone or grease on them.
For longer trips I like to put in some soft insoles.
I use heavy wool socks with light nylon under-socks in every season - both socks are available from REI and other sport stores.
After the trip I spray a germ killing compound like Lysol Spray or similar - inside the boots.