photoflorida Loc: No where

Anyone ever tried the MeFoto Globetrotter A2350 tripod and would this work for the 100-400 Canon lens tripod collar mount?

Bruce with a Canon Loc: Islip

100-400 lens really does need a robust tripod and stout ball head or better gimbal.
Never having hear of the tripod you mention, I have no opinion.
I use a Manfrotto 055 XPROB and Lensmaster gimbal. Sturdy and free moving.
Other "Hoggers" may have better information
good luck

OddJobber Loc: Portland, OR

Another "never tried it" opinion. MeFoto is made by Benro, so probably OK. Pretty similar to my Dolica, but rated for more weight. Looks like it would be a good travel accessory, but if you're looking for an everyday tripod, you can get much more solid ones for less money.

traveler90712 Loc: Lake Worth, Fl.

I am not familiar with that tripod.
I do know that the total weight of your largest lens and camera will need a tripod and tripod mount that will hold 1 1/2 to 2 times the total weight of that camera and lens.

speters Loc: Grangeville/Idaho

I think any support is better than handholding for a prolonged time, and since the 100-400 is a fairly small lens it should do fine, unless you need to leave camera + lens on the tripod for a long time (step away and come back etc - I would keep a hand on the tripod at all times for security).

wlgoode Loc: Globe, AZ

I'm surprised at the manufacturer's rating of weight capacity, have you seen any independent reviews?

CompuBob Loc: Carson, CA

Oddjobber, you say one can get "much more solid ones for less money."

Specifically, can you name some? I'm a pensioner with a small pension, and cannot afford the big bucks that's being charged for "good" tripods and ball heads.

I, too, am considering the MePhoto A2350...but was hoping for carbon fiber rather than aluminum.

Any help out there?

amehta Loc: Boston

I have not mounted anything on the MeFoto tripods but I have handled several in the store, and they feel very sturdy. If I didn't already have a good tripod, I would have considered one, because the MeFotos are more compact. (I think Induro is also a subsidiary of Benro.)

CompuBob Loc: Carson, CA

Thanks, Photoflorida,

I understand there are two versions of the tripod, an aluminum one and a carbon fiber one...the CF is about $100 more expensive.

Is that significant? Is the aluminum one sufficient for irregular usage?

OddJobber Loc: Portland, OR

You ask some tough questions, Bob.

First, tripods such as the Globetrotter A2350 are preferred by guys who are travelling and want light weight and compact folded size. For travelling to Tanzania (never been there) or taking a bus across town (yeah, I do that) or if you're backpacking or trekking out to the boonies light weight is good. I use a Dolica TX570B150SL which is light weight and tiny and comes with a good ball head for $100, and they have some newer and better models.

For hanging around the house and shooting flowers in the garden I use a Manfrotto MT294A3 ($130) with a Manfrotto 494RC2 ball head ($70). Still light weight for the pros, but I have a budget too.

Third, while carbon fiber has better vibration damping, is it worth double the cost? It's more susceptible to wind shake due to lower weight. Lower your tripod and the difference disappears, and unless you're using those really long $2000 lenses, it won't be noticeable anyway.

Sorry if I'm throwing out more questions than answers but it all depends...... :-D

Here's some more reading.
http://www.dpreview.com/forums/post/37036970
http://www.canadiannaturephotographer.com/tripod.html
Thanks to JerryC41 for the links.

amehta Loc: Boston

I think "yes" is the simple answer, the aluminum one will do the job quite capably.

OddJobber Loc: Portland, OR

Well, yeah, that was the easy answer, but I agree. :-D

amehta Loc: Boston

I'm usually the one with the "it depends" answer, but you had that covered. :-D

CompuBob Loc: Carson, CA

Oddjobber (and all the others who responded to my query),
Thanks for your input. The guy at my local photo store recommended the MeFoto tripod...but his boss (the owner of the store...whom I know) does not. He still wants me to spend more money!! Surprise!

So, I thank you for your input. I hope to be able to find a replacement for my broken Promaster 6400 based upon your comments.

Again, thanks!!!

babbs2424 Loc: Michigan

What tripod did you decide to go with? And are you happy with your decision?