Macro focusing rails - any tips ?

[g4gxl]

After trying close-up lenses, tubes and a converted zoom for a while, I have now committed to macro with the purchase of a used Sigma 150mm f2.8 Macro.

I'm now thinking of getting a set of focusing rails.
Redsnapper does one for just over £110, whereas Manfrotto has something that seems similar for about £60.

I'm guessing these 4-way units for £37 are probably best avoided - Suntekstore

I think £110 is as much as I would want to spend, but is it worth almost twice as much as a Manfrotto ? Are there any good cheaper alternatives ?

BTW - probably 95% of my work will be outside (bugs and flowers), with the rest being indoors (still life, electronics). I am assuming I need rails because I've had a heck of a lot of trouble achieving focus so far, but maybe with the Sigma it's more usual to hand hold ?

 

[philthejuggler]

I had some rails and recently sold them. I find hand-held is best for most macro & with a little practice you get used to edging back & forth to focus hitting the shutter just at the right time.

I bought the rails for focus stacking (taking a series of shots focussed at different points and combining in specialist software). They worked a treat for this & would be fine for critical focussing on still subjects in a studio environment. I can't see them being much use outdoors for bugs and flowers.

Phil

 

[MisterE]

I bought exactly the same rail as the £37 Suntekstore one, off ebay for even less - £26 - a couple of years ago. They are all the same - just different prices. Nothing wrong with them. They work. It hasn't fallen apart. Pay more for an identical one if you wish.