carbon fibre tripod

[wessyfiesta]

I'm looking for a carbon fibre tripod which will hold a Gimbal Head with a 500mm lens, can anyone tell me which model would suit my needs.
thanks wessy.

 

[Jan K.]

Perhaps a "systemic" tripod is the answer? With an extra centerplate for easy switching between ballhead and Gimbal head...

At least that' what I planned, when shopping for "the last tripod"


Was looking at Gitzo and RRS, but went for a cheaper solution - as in sig.
Wrote a tiny review here on TP: http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=442107

 

[artyman]

I've got a Velbon E430 with a Lensmaster gimbal, which supports my Sigma 120-300 f2.8 with a 2X TC without problems. That lens is pretty heavy.

 

[gramps]

For stability get a set of 'legs' rather than one with a centre column ... I can personally recommend the big Feisol's but there are others available.

 

[MarkEvan]

I use a Gitzo 3540XLS for the same set up though Nikon not Canon, costly but very very good. You could pick up a second hand pair quite a bit cheaper though.

 

[markyboy.1967]

You don't say if its a 500 prime or zoom as it does make a difference. If its the prime then as others say, get one with no centre column. Something like a Gitzo 3 series will last for ages and take all the weight your lens throws at it.

 

[wessyfiesta]

The lens is a 500mm prime with a canon 7d body

 

[tijuana taxi]

Gitzo 5542LS would probably be the best bet although I do know some birders use the series 3 with no problems

 

[markyboy.1967]

I use the Gitzo 5541 LS which is amazing but there is no need to get a 5 series as the 3 series is fine and will do everything you want it to.

 

[Impspeed]

I've got the 3542LS Gitzo and it's perfect for the job.