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Giottos vs Manfrotto
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May 18, 2013 17:02:10   #
DB Loc: Myrtle Beach, SC
 
Yes there are lots of tripod posts but I'm gonna ask anyway!!! Looking for a dedicated tripod for my Nikon D90 with a Sigma 150-500mm lens, Lensmaster RH-2 gimble head. I understand what opinions are and that everyone has one. I would like to hear pros and cons on the Giottos MT8350 carbon fiber legs and the Manfrotto 055xpro aluminum legs.

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May 18, 2013 17:12:46   #
JR1 Loc: Tavistock, Devon, UK
 
You can't compare alloy with carbon, I have manfrotto and Giottos and prefer the Giottos I introduced everyone to Lensmaster, I have the RH1 and 2, I use nothing else

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May 18, 2013 17:13:43   #
JR1 Loc: Tavistock, Devon, UK
 
Lensmaster and my 055XPROB

http://i928.photobucket.com/albums/ad121/jser1/JPEGImage23330260.jpg

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May 18, 2013 21:36:53   #
DB Loc: Myrtle Beach, SC
 
JR1 wrote:
You can't compare alloy with carbon, I have manfrotto and Giottos and prefer the Giottos I introduced everyone to Lensmaster, I have the RH1 and 2, I use nothing else


which model Giottos do you have....

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May 18, 2013 23:47:31   #
Ruthiel Loc: Las Vegas
 
Who makes the lensemaster? I tried a google couldn't find it
Ha I found it. Made in UK

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May 19, 2013 03:18:33   #
BHC Loc: Strawberry Valley, JF, USA
 
Ruthiel wrote:
Who makes the lensemaster? I tried a google couldn't find it
Ha I found it. Made in UK

Lensmaster Gimbal

http://www.lensmaster.co.uk/index.htm

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May 19, 2013 04:19:07   #
JR1 Loc: Tavistock, Devon, UK
 
DB wrote:
which model Giottos do you have....


Giottos GTMTL9351B, I broke a clip on it and needed a tripod the next day so I bought the Manfrotto, same price not comparison, no where near as stable.

Not for me the....

Manfrotto 055XPROB

Nice, good well made but NO comparison with a 150-500 for stability

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May 19, 2013 10:09:04   #
Bruce with a Canon Loc: Islip
 
My .02 cents.
I use manfrotto 190XPROB for light duties and an 055 XPROB for my 100-400 lens on a pro body.
I have not used the upscale carbon so I have no opinion.
The 055 suits the duties well, rugged, robust. While not an air weight it is not bad to haul up and down waterfall trails.
On the recommendation of JR and Craggy, I too bought the Lensmaster RH2 and can not see myself using anything else.

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May 19, 2013 10:19:39   #
JR1 Loc: Tavistock, Devon, UK
 
The 055 XPROB is a good tripod, after all it has to be, I bought one :), I should say I have NO concerns with it as a mount, it is just that my Giottos at the same price is a sturdier mount.

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May 19, 2013 12:02:47   #
bvargas Loc: Palm Harbor, Florida
 
I own the Giotto VGR 8255 SC, CARBON FIBER, 2.8 LBS, 16" CLOSED LENTGH,
One leg can be used as monopod. Cost about $429. Love it. Nice & light to carry. Includes Ball head w/quick release plate.

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May 19, 2013 22:56:04   #
Boobarf Loc: Kyle, TX
 
I have the Manfrotto 190x PROB (not as expensive as the 055X) with a Vanguard SBH 250 Ballhead. I really like the combo and the Manfrotto provides plenty of support, even when using my Sgima 150-500.

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May 20, 2013 00:54:49   #
Jblanke Loc: Metairie, LA
 
DB wrote:
Yes there are lots of tripod posts but I'm gonna ask anyway!!! Looking for a dedicated tripod for my Nikon D90 with a Sigma 150-500mm lens, Lensmaster RH-2 gimble head. I understand what opinions are and that everyone has one. I would like to hear pros and cons on the Giottos MT8350 carbon fiber legs and the Manfrotto 055xpro aluminum legs.


I have the 055ProB and Lensmaster RH-2. I am really not in a position to speak to the Giotto, although I have heard that they are sturdier for the same money than the Manfrotto 055 PROB. I am happy with my tri-pod.

As for the LensMaster, I just got mine about 2-3 months ago and I cannot imagine being without it. I think the LensMaster Gimbals are the best value in photographic equipment today. Quality gear built to last....and they do perform. Hope that helps.

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May 20, 2013 02:47:52   #
DB Loc: Myrtle Beach, SC
 
Thanks Everyone..
I decided on the Giottos Pro Series 8354 Carbon Fiber YTL Silk Road Tripod. This will be a dedicated set of legs for my LensMaster Gimble head and my Sigma 150-500mm lens. My decision was made based on the lighter weight and the new compact y style center post which makes the tripod more compact when closed. Now I can't wait to get it....

Thank you all for your input.
And MT Shooter is right. its a very personal choice and buy the best you can afford. I love my other Giottos but did not want to keep changing the heads... so for ME, a second set of legs was important...

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May 20, 2013 03:31:10   #
JR1 Loc: Tavistock, Devon, UK
 
Just remember not to submerse cf pods in water for too long especially salty water

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May 20, 2013 10:25:26   #
Jblanke Loc: Metairie, LA
 
JR1 wrote:
Just remember not to submerse cf pods in water for too long especially salty water


Why, JR? Had not heard that.

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