Fernando wrote: > Hi, > > I'm totally inexperienced when it comes to tripods, but I'm trying > something now that could use a good one. The only thing I have is a > cheapo flimsy $20 small tripod. > > I did my homework and came up with this list of characteristics (in > order of importance): > > 1 – Has to be quick to setup > 2 – Should be able to handle the weight of a K10D (790g) + FA Limited > (heaviest is the 31 = 346g) or DA16-45/4 (368g), so a total of 1.2kg > 3 – Ball head > 4 – Better if it's on the smaller side > 5 – Would like to spend around 300 u$s/Ca$ (no Arca Swiss I guess…) > > Nice to have (in order of importance): > 1 – Lightweight > 2 – Can handle a DA* 50-135/2.8 (in case I buy one in the future) > > I'm leaning towards a $200 Manfrotto 055XB (which has quick action > legs and is suitable for 2.3 kg) paired with a $85 486RC2 compact ball > head (suitable for 6 kg).
You can get the 055 for less if you shop around. > > Any suggestions? > Am I forgetting something? > Are these quick action legs any good / useful? I have a 3021 leg set, which, along with the 3011, was the predecessor for the 055 series. I would not consider it to be light. Otherwise, that leg set should meet all of your needs. The cams on the leg sections are very nice and easy to use, though they can be a bit loud if you're trying to photograph wildlife. I routinely use mine with the P645 kit and have, on occasion, mounted a 4x5 press camera without problems. Mine currently has a 3047 3-way head on it (also not light), so hopefully someone else can give you advice on the ball head. -- Scott Loveless http://www.twosixteen.com/fivetoedsloth/ -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List [email protected] http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
