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What's a good tripod?
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Nov 3, 2021 17:06:23   #
JeffDavidson Loc: Originally Detroit Now Los Angeles
 
rmalarz wrote:
I put my money, and cameras, on a Gitzo.
--Bob


Agree!

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Nov 3, 2021 17:08:57   #
Alps1962 Loc: Fraser michigan
 
madpaddler wrote:
Because you are shooting wildlife with a 150-600mm lens your next question needs to be; What head do I put on this new shinny tripod? You will find that a ball head on that lens is not the best combination. You might want to look at a gimbal head for that lens. Here is a link to some options.
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=gimbal+head+for+wildlife+photography&crid=LA7KJUB8YRX3&sprefix=gimbal+haed%2Caps%2C172&ref=nb_sb_ss_sc_6_11

And yes, I own both a ball head and a gimbal and switch back and forth depending on the lens combination I am using.

Good Luck!
Because you are shooting wildlife with a 150-600mm... (show quote)


I will get one for sure. Christmas is coming around the corner😁

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Nov 3, 2021 18:10:17   #
eagle80 Loc: Kutztown, PA
 
A very solid built one.

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Nov 3, 2021 18:42:22   #
mizzee Loc: Boston,Ma
 
I have a Peake Design, aluminum. Well designed, easy to use and fairly light. Not cheap. I’ve aluminum cuz the cf was too dera.

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Nov 3, 2021 18:56:59   #
BobPo Loc: "Lower Slower DE"
 
Alps,
Many excellent recommendations provide so far, but just wanted to share what drove me to a Gitzo 3-section carbon leg model. I too was following suggestions to look at different manufacturers and models, and decided that a Sirui carbon unit with large tubes and proper height would be my perfect unit; then I started searching around for dealer that had same or similar that I could put my hands on.

I walked into his show room and he had my target Sirui model, and right next to it was a Gitzo model, with similar large graphite tubes. Knowing that I may be shooting in buffeting winds with long lens, the torsional stiffness became a significant priority. With both tripods at full extension, leg locks engaged, and firmly planted on the floor, I grabbed each tripod spider and twisted to see if there was movement. On the Sirui, there was noticeable movement. On the Gitzo, there was none; it was like trying to twist a stone!

I then applied lateral force to the middle of each leg; again, the Gitzo impressed me. A mentor told me "Get the heaviest one that you're willing to carry." The Gitzo model was a bit heavier than the Sirui unit, but well within my carry comfort range, and I knew that it would serve me well. There have been no regrets! I fitted it with a moderately-priced Sirui ball head, which performs well enough.

If you have a large photo shop nearby with decent selection of tripod brands, then pay them a visit - this will be a significant expense, so it's best to love what you buy.

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Nov 3, 2021 19:16:23   #
Alps1962 Loc: Fraser michigan
 
BobPo wrote:
Alps,
Many excellent recommendations provide so far, but just wanted to share what drove me to a Gitzo 3-section carbon leg model. I too was following suggestions to look at different manufacturers and models, and decided that a Sirui carbon unit with large tubes and proper height would be my perfect unit; then I started searching around for dealer that had same or similar that I could put my hands on.

I walked into his show room and he had my target Sirui model, and right next to it was a Gitzo model, with similar large graphite tubes. Knowing that I may be shooting in buffeting winds with long lens, the torsional stiffness became a significant priority. With both tripods at full extension, leg locks engaged, and firmly planted on the floor, I grabbed each tripod spider and twisted to see if there was movement. On the Sirui, there was noticeable movement. On the Gitzo, there was none; it was like trying to twist a stone!

I then applied lateral force to the middle of each leg; again, the Gitzo impressed me. A mentor told me "Get the heaviest one that you're willing to carry." The Gitzo model was a bit heavier than the Sirui unit, but well within my carry comfort range, and I knew that it would serve me well. There have been no regrets! I fitted it with a moderately-priced Sirui ball head, which performs well enough.

If you have a large photo shop nearby with decent selection of tripod brands, then pay them a visit - this will be a significant expense, so it's best to love what you buy.
Alps, br Many excellent recommendations provide so... (show quote)


I actually found a camera shop about 40 miles from me (it's where I bought my camera) and could not believe how big and how much inventory they had. I'm plan to visit them on Friday that's why I put out the question. I really am over whelmed on how many great people have responded and gave me such great information. I'm gonna re-read most of them and head out to the shop. Thanks for taking the time and all the great information for my next purchase
Gil

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Nov 3, 2021 19:34:03   #
wmurnahan Loc: Bloomington IN
 
I vote Gitzo. I'm still using a Gitzo I bought in 1977.

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Nov 3, 2021 21:11:18   #
Sidwalkastronomy Loc: New Jersey Shore
 
Buy your last tripod the first time.
Go carbon fiber for sure if you plan on carrying it around.

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Nov 3, 2021 21:38:10   #
gwilliams6
 
Sirui tripods . Choose the ones in carbon fiber and that are waterproof if you plan to use them out in nature.

https://store.sirui.com/collections/tripods

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Nov 3, 2021 22:51:59   #
Walt B
 
I have had Gitzo and many over the years. A couple of years ago, I bought Peak Design's newly developed Carbon fiber Tripod. I have shot with a Canon 100-500 lens with a 2X extender and photos came out sharp. It is quick and easy to set up. They have a unique mounting system for your camera. It is very compact and fits easily into a Roll-aboard suitcase. I am 5'8" so I don't have to raise the center column. If you are tall, it might not work for you.

Walt B

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Nov 4, 2021 11:56:52   #
AndyT Loc: Hampstead, New Hampshire
 
The one that's sturdy enough to hold your heaviest gear, but light enough that you'll actually carry it.

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Nov 4, 2021 12:24:49   #
imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida
 
AndyT wrote:
The one that's sturdy enough to hold your heaviest gear, but light enough that you'll actually carry it.


This is why some people have more than 1 tripod ......

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Nov 4, 2021 12:59:29   #
William Loc: Mississippi
 
Manfrotto 3221 and a 322 head travel well stability@

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Nov 4, 2021 13:56:10   #
wdross Loc: Castle Rock, Colorado
 
William wrote:
Manfrotto 3221 and a 322 head travel well stability@


Manfrotto travels well along with Slik, Right Stuff, Gitzo, ProMedia Gear, Benro, and many others. Unfortunately for the OP, tripods are like personal choices in underwear - they all serve the same function but they are all different choices for the individual person. Just look at the number of manufacturers. The OP is going to have to get to a proper store and try a bunch to see what fits his needs the best.

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Nov 4, 2021 19:14:06   #
Architect1776 Loc: In my mind
 
Alps1962 wrote:
Hello everyone I'm new to this forum and would like some opinions on what's a good tripod to buy. Just bought a Nikon z6ii kit with lens but also have a 150 to 600 telephoto lens. I'm gonna mostly shoot wildlife. Any input will be appreciated and thsnks for your time. Gil


How much hiking will be done to locations?

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