What's better for a light weight travel tripod:Bogen, Feisol or something else?

O

oxband

Well-known member
I'm about to do a lot of travel and want a light weight tripod to go with me while I am filming. I've been doing some research. Options I've considering are:

1 - A used Bogen 3063 head with Bogen 3011 legs for 115

2 - Getting used Feisol CT-3441S legs and then buying a lightweight head for it

3 - The Pearstone VT2500B

4 - Getting a used Miller Solo with a DS20 head for 750

5 - Getting Manfrotto 475B legs and putting a head on it

Obviously, there is a big price difference between this all. This wont be my main tripod. I see it mainly for travel. Although I do a lot of travel so paying more for a good travel tripod is OK with me.

Any thoughts? I can be neurotic about too much choice (ugh plane tickets....) and this decision is a big one.
 
If you can afford it I would also look at the Gitzo carbon-fiber legs. Very strong legs in a super light package. Then just add a good video head to them.
 
The Miller set (#4 in your list) would be my first choice for versatility and performance, but it pushes the upper limit of what I'd consider a "travel" rig in size and weight. I have the Solo legs and a Vinten Vision Blue head combo that I use as my "ENG" style tripod, and I like it, but it normally travels in the back of my van where I don't usually have to lug it long distances.

You didn't say what you're planning to mount on it, which might make a considerable difference.

- Greg
 
Many of my jobs require travel, & I chose Sachtler 0775 system.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/610351-REG/Sachtler_0775_0775_FSB_8_Tripod_System.html

Weighs a couple pounds more, & doesn't go as low, or quite as high, as the Miller, but it's much quicker to setup, or adjust the height, & much less noisy while doing so.

If you don't need as much payload you could go with a less expensive Satchler head. The "side-load" camera plates are compatible with Manfrotto's 501 camera plates, so can be used on a number of their heads, & quick releases. I use Manfrotto's heads, & QRs, on monopods, sliders, 15mm LWS baseplate, etc, & it's great to be able to swap configurations very quickly.
 
I fly all the time. More often than not I travel with my Manfrotto 536 carbon fiber sticks and a Saachtler FSB8 head. Obviously, choice of head depends payload.
 
I'm using this for a Canon XA-10. I have a pair of Manfrotto 535 legs. I'm now thinking of just using those legs and matching it with a light tripod head. I wish I could get some super small legs, but I'm thinking it might make sense to just use what i have already. I wish there were legs that folded up better, so for that reason, I'm still considering the Feisol option.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top