Tripod Help

archeryelk · Jun 16, 2008

I need to replace a tripod that I have had a few years.

I am looking more for light weight and quality since I will carry it in a backpack more than I use it.

I will be using it for a spotter but may us it some with binoculars. I glass mostly sitting so only need shorter length.

I know Bogan and others make great stuff but I don't live where being able to try one is an option.

Any help appreciated,

Archer

NeverStopHuntin · Jun 16, 2008

I haven't tried all the different brands but i love my bogen. They have new carbon fiber ones that are supposed to be pretty light weight.

cbeard · Jun 16, 2008

I love my Outdoorsman's tripod.

archeryelk · Jun 16, 2008

Where is a good source to buy the Outdoorsman?

Archer

BUCKSPY · Jun 17, 2008

LAST EDITED ON Jun-17-08 AT 06:51AM (MST)[p]www.outdoorsmans.com

In most cases, carbon fiber saves very little weight on the overall weight of the tripod but can add significant cost. I have also heard through what I consider a reliable source, that carbon fiber does not dampen vibration as well as aluminum legs for glassing in windy conditions. I don't know that to be fact so maybe some scientist/hunter could clarify this.

The quality of the tripod head is very important for accurate panning and glassing. For mine, I use the Jim White head and tension it just heavy enough that I can move it with pressure from my head, which allows for more hands-free time and less fatigue.

Just like most things, you get what you pay for.

JREDBUCK · Jun 17, 2008

CABELAS HAS A NEW CARBON FIBER TRIPOD THAT I BOUGHT A YEAR AGO, IT HAS BEEN GREAT. YOU CAN'T BEAT OUTDOORSMANS GEAR, BUT THEY ARE WAY TOO OVERPRICED.

Bulzeye · Jun 17, 2008

For what it's worth, my experience with Outdoorsmans products is that they stand by it 100%. You hand them a broken product and they hand you a new one, no questions asked.

Blow_n_Smoke · Jun 17, 2008

I use a manfroto. Its sturdy and not excessively heavy. I tried a vanguard but got rid of it because it was too heavy.

Flagstaff · Jun 17, 2008

I had a vanguard with a pistol grip, but didn't like the pistol grip while using my spotter - sometimes you need small movements and with the pistol grip wasn't always easy to do that. I bought a manfrotto 3221 with a 3130 fluid head. Much better equipment choice when using my spotter. The 3221 is the heavier manfrotto tripod model, but with the wind I encounter (and weight of the spotter mounted), I wanted a heavier tripod setup. i have seen tripods fall over because the wind when left unattended for just a moment and watched grown men about cry when they break their expensive optics (the only ones they brought) during a hunt. I am also tall - some of the lighter weight manfrotto models wouldn't extend high enough for me - especially on uneven ground (like on a side of a hill). What ever you do though, get a fluid head if using a spotter.

archeryelk · Jun 17, 2008

Do you have any feedback on the Swarovski Binocular Doubler?

I know this does not make binoculars a spotting scope but wondered about it for the weight.

Archer

NMPaul · Jun 17, 2008

The Swarovski doubler is not worth the energy to throw it into the trash.
I made the mistake of buying one and tried it several times and finally returned it.

maxxbob1 · Jun 17, 2008

I looked at a bunch of different tripods. I was looking for something that was lightweight and reasonably sturdy for backpacking. I planned to use it with binoculars and a lightweight spotting scope. I glass mostly while sitting, out of the wind, when possible. I looked at expensive, cheap, used, and pretty much every option I could find. I finally bought a very cheap Vanguard MK-3 at Sportsman's for $30. I thought it would hold me over until I found what I really wanted. I have been very happy with it!! So, now I have another cheap piece of equipment that works fine and was made in China.