Tripod legs for supporting a mini jib

Z

zeteny.zpx

New member
Hi there!

I’m a film student here in Hungary and currently I’m looking for a tripod that can support my would-be mini jib.
I’m quite decided to get the KC Lite 8.0 from Kessler Crane (http://www.kesslercrane.com/product-p/100041.htm) and the Davis & Sanford FM18 head that they recommend for it but I’ve read somewhere that the „provista” legs that come with the head are not sturdy enough, so I decided to grab the head only and search for a better set of sticks.

Originally I was looking at legs like the manfrotto 546b or libec RT30B and similar 75mm legs (Cartoni, etc.) but recently I got the impression that legs like the manfrotto 028B or the 475B could be more stable while holding the jib with their geared central column. Am I right?
I don’t want to go for a heavier one than these as I intend to use this tripod for everyday use as well, I can’t afford to buy an other one for now.

Any suggestions, please?
 
So my main question would be: Am I right when I think that a tripod with a geared central column (like Manfrotto 475b) can be more stable than one with let's say 75mm bowl?
 
I would recommend a bowl. From what ive seen of videos of the KC lite, since it sits off balance to the head, it tilts over a bit because of the weight. This will give you less than level shots that you will have to edit in post. - A bowl head would allow you to adjust for the this leveling problem.

Ive never seen the crane in person but thats what I noted from the video.
 
I use my Trapezist mini jib on a Cartoni 75mm bowl tripod with a Manfrotto 502 head. Sturdy and easy to mount on a quick release plate.
 
Jeremy_Sawatzky: Good point, but I could also use a leveller like this: http://www.manfrotto.com/ball-camera-leveller
I would love to get a miller, but those are way above my budget for now!

The Cartoni sounds nice, plus those are rated for 40 kg / 88 lbs, this kind of speaks for itself. For some reason I got the impression that the geared central columned ones are more stable.. but now I think I might go for a Cartoni. Anyway, thanks for the advice eveyone! :)
 
Manfrotto sold hundreds of the 301 head & sticks kits - not an amazing head but nice for the $$. They're always on eBay. I use that setup for an 8' Kessler (and not the "light" one) and it's held up fine.

Sometimes I mount the crane to a bowl adapter and put a head on the end, sometimes mount the crane right to the head - but the bowl allows you to level the thing (usually a 2-person job with the big crane). And jibs seem to really accentuate level issues, so leveling is important. I don't think a crank-up is advisable for a jib.
 
there's nothing wrong with the Davis & Sanford legs - very sturdy - I use those for my jib & slider all the time
 
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