Tripods: Velbon 630A vs Bogen 3021BN

[dhiren]

I posted this question on Tripod section, but didn't receive any reply.

 

I am in market for a good [light & sturdy] field tripod. I would not

be doing strenuous hiking with this tripod but would be roaming around

quite a bit & I am 5'4".

 

I have narrowed down to Bogen 3021BN [weighs 5.1lb, 53" high & $140] &

Velbon 630A [Carbon Fiber, weighs 3.4lb, 55" high & $290]... both goes

pretty low for macro work and velbon carries almost twice the capacity

of Bogen.

 

In terms of durability, is there any difference between aluminium &

CF. In worst conditions, I would be shooting in waist deep water or snow.

 

I don't see myself using anything larger than 70-200 f4 L for time

being. Velbon is 1.7lb lighter than bogen ... do you guys think the

weight difference is worth the extra cost [$150] ... money is not a

real issue & I would go with Giotto MH-1003 ball head for light-

weight travel.

 

Thanks in advance

[mrspock]

I have a Bogen 3011 and find it a bit heavy at 4.9 lbs + 1.5 lb head.

 

I am considering the Gitzo 1227 + Mongoose M-262 head as a lighter alternative.

 

6.5 lbs of Bogen + Canon EOS-20D + Canon EF100-400 lens = 11 lbs to carry over my shoulder which doesn't sound like a lot until the first hour draws to a close...

[KenPapai]

I love my Bogen/Manfrotto 3021BP and the 486RC2 ball head. I've hiked with it in tough and steep terrain with all my 2.8L glass (from 16 to 200mm) for miles. I have no idea how it holds up in deep water or snow though. I am part sherpa though.

[akajohndoe]

I have several tripods including Bogen 3221, 3036, and 3443 (carbon fiber). I actually prefer the 3221 for most applications, but use the 3443 for hiking. If you are the kind of person who breaks off your toothbrush to reduce weight in your pack, you'll get a carbon fiber tripod, too.