Tripod suggestions

[COLO3D]

I am considering a new tripod and have narrowed it down to two models from Bogen. I am looking at the 3001BN and the 3205GN. I am having a difficult time justifying the extra expense of the 3205GN. Your thoughts?

I am also looking at a few different heads. The 3265 has is my first choice but I am a little concerned with the weight limit (5.5lbs). The other choice would be the 3130. Again, your thoughts?

I will be using this with a Nikon Sky and Earth 80mm spotting scope.

Please help a brutha out.
Henry

 

[Oakbuck]

I just finished my first hunt and two scouting trips with the 3001 tripod and the 3265 head. Here's my take.

Tripod:

Solid and well built! I never worried about my spotter falling over.
21" tall folded up
61" tall fully extended (without the head)
Legs pivot out seperately to give you a wider base if needed.
Fits easily in all my backpacks (school book size or larger).

At 3.8 lbs it is a little heavier than I wanted but for $95 ($250 less than the Outdoorsmans) I'll pack another 1.5 lbs. The only negative beside the weight is that my hunting buddy has the Outdoorsmans and he set his up a few seconds faster every time because the legs extend with one clamp instead of two for each leg.

Head:
I have the 3265 and it is rock solid and easy to use and feels solid enough to hold much more than 5.5 lbs (imho). It held my Swarovski STS60 spotter with never a concern and the quick connect works great. It weighs 1.8lbs and again, is a little heavier than I wanted but the price was right at $99.

It pivots to the side at 90 degrees so I can rest my elbows on it to glass with my binocs. Made a nice rest.

For $200 and 5.6 lbs total for tripod and head, I like the results.

Good luck.

Oakbuck

 

[COLO3D]

Oakbuck,
Thanks for the reply. That is exactly what I was looking for. I have actually found a camera store in NY that has that combo for $177. I am going to order it as soon as I can convince my wife that it is something I can't live without.
Henry