Toronto Photography Meetup Group

I'm looking to get a solid tripod possibly a carbon fiber one if it is around $500, any good suggestions which ones to look at?
I'll be using this on some outdoor excursions so if i can save on the ounces it would be ideal. i'm just 5'7 so i don't need anything massive.

thanks

Manfrotto 190 series mag fiber?

+1

Some of the Gitzo CF tripods would be in that price range as well. I've got one of their aluminum tripods and love it (my budget didn't allow for CF ).

190 I find is too small. I prefer the 055.

Go to a store and try a few out. I have a 055MF3, and would suggest the next version of that tripod with the easy rotate centre column. Not sure of the model number.

A good tripod should last you a lifetime, I'd look at a Gitzo, you should find some used here and there, but save up if you need to.

Lifetime warranties are a good thing.

Brent

I have a Induro CX-214 which works out well for me. I find the fourth section of the legs bit spindly, but usually I don't extend the 4th section that often. I wanted a compact tripod which is portable, so the folded length was a concern. If stability is a concern with legs fully extended, you can consider CX-213.

They also have a C-214/213 models where the center column is fixed, but I choose the CX series for its flexibility.

I think Vistek have a sale on some these models right now.

I think 190 will be enough for him

What about Adorama's Flashpoint series? I've read good things about them, and good bang for the buck. This is the 2nd top one has a noted capicity of 24.2 lbs and is $269 USD for just the legs.

http://www.adorama.com/FPTPF1328.html

There is a lower model one for that supports 17 lbs at $179 USD. At that price, you can opt for a good ball head to fit within your budget.

I've handled this Slik one only once, but the construction of it felt good and it seemed light. Holds less weight though.

http://www.adorama.com/SLCF714.html

I'm 5'6 and found the 190 too short for me. uspecially if you use a ball head in the portrait position.

Since upgraded to a Benro 4 section that is more than tall enough. Find the extra height especially useful if your on a slight downhill!

I purchased a Gitzo GT3530LSV in the high $500 range from Henry's outlet store last fall. It was an open box unit, but in excellent condition. Merkle had some Gitzo product earlier this year that apeared to be last years models, and I picked up a hefty monopod at a good price.

Another place to look is the Amplis (Gitzo/Manfrotto distributor) repair counter in Markham just north of Steeles off of Victoria Park. They usually have Manfrotto product there, and the prices looked reasonable although I did not check them out as I wanted Gitzo.

Thom Hogan has a good article on buying tripods on his site (bythom.com).

Bodger