A rails is a rails is a rails...

[Craighoit]

OK, with apologies to Gertrude Stein (I always thought it was Emily Dickinson).

Rails are an integral part of most all rigs, but I don't see a lot of discussion about them. I know there's probably subjective opinions, but I'd like to know people's thoughts:

What do you prefer: aluminum, stainless steel, carbon fiber? I know there are trade-offs, weight vs strength vs durability, and I can guess at what some of these trade-offs are, but not having built (or bought) a rig, these would only be guesses. I'd love to hear your thoughts based on real-world experiences.

What about smooth vs rails with a cross hatch texture on them? Preferences one way or another?

Any brands that are worth more than others?

Or am I concerning myself with something that doesn't need too much thought....

Thanks in advance.

Craig

 

[daplight]

I second the motion for opinions of rails. I am just beginning to research a rigging for my D7000 and see dozens of variations of CF and metal (I would trust stainless steel, not aluminum however), and hollow/tubular or solid? Any real-life experiences would be welcomed. Thanks to everybody in advance, also thanks Craig for bringing this up.