A good heavy duty tripod for my Mamiya?

Question

I'm looking to buy a new tripod to hold all weights of my cameras (two Nikons and my Mamiya RB67), but I'm not sure what to go with. I hear Manfrotto/Bogen is really good, but I need something I can trust to hold the weight of my Mamiya especially. If possible, I'm looking for one that won't break my budget (most tripods I looked at online were $200-$300). In particular, I'm just looking for one with head, holds the weight of my Mamiya, and has good length legs. Any model suggestions (so I can look for them on eBay)? Thank you!

Answer 1

I don't know what your spending limit is when you describe "one that won't break my budget," but you can try for an economical solution by looking at a used tripod and head. Try looking online with Yahoo Search for "used camera equipment." I've had great luck with a used equipment place in Atlanta (KEH) that sells online.

Manfrotto makes very solid tripods (look for something that will support up to 11 or 12 lbs). I have a 3021, which I believe has been replaced by the model 055xb.

If you are interested in buying new, look for the 055xb, which extends to 54 inches without extending the center column (use the center column as a last resort, since it reduces stability) and it supports more than you'll need for the Mamiya RB67.

You also need to decide whether you want a ball head or a 3-way pan/tilt head.

I'd consider a 055xb/486RC2 ballhead combo for about $200 new + shipping at B&H Photo in NY.

Otherwise, take a look at the 055xb/808RC4 3-way pan/tilt head - around $250 + shipping.

If you're considering used, take a look for a set of Bogen/Manfrotto 3021 tripod legs and a Bogen/Manfrotto 3047 pan/tilt head. You should be able to find both items in good condition for less than $150 total, regardless of whether you look for them at KEH, B&H, or eBay.