Sorry, I wasn't thinking when I sent that last post. Noted below are the
comments made on each of the tripods.
Gitzo: Slow to set up, Legs tend to spin when loosening or tightening
collars. Leg locks are easy to use but are not comfortable for smaller
hands. Leg angle locks are small and streamlined so they won't catch on
clothing etc. but you need small fingers to work them. The centre post
is reversible and has a channel along its length to eliminate twisting.
There is a winged twist collar between the head and the top plate for
adjusting the centre column. This decreases stability.
Manfrotto: Leg locks are plastic and fold into the legs to prevent
snags. Very stiff to operate and cumbersome with gloves. (ed: I wonder
how they will hold up at -20 C) Easy to adjust tension of locks with a
screw driver. Fastest tripod to set up. All three legs can be done at
same time. Leg angle locks are push buttons. No locks so they tend to go
back to the first setting when the tripod is moved. All legs are a
unique three facet design which eliminate slippage when locking down.
Centre post is same design. Centre post has the ability to mount
sideways on the tripod for lower tripod shots. Must watch out for
tipping because of the light weight nature of the tripod. Tripod can
also be used without centre column for really close ground work.
Slik: The 803CF is preferred over the 804 due to the stability and
faster setup. Leg locks are metal and rubber twist collars with a higher
profile that the Gitzo. Easiest of all tripods tested for all hand
sizes. Leg angle locks are also big and easy to use. Pull out to release
leg, push in to lock. Can be adjusted with a screw driver if they loosen
(Cannot do on Manfrotto) Centre post is Aluminum, Magnesium and Titanium
alloy. Stronger than Carbon Fibre. Can be reversed but is too long for
close to the ground work. Need to buy optional short centre column for
low work. Two locking devices on centre post ensure no slippage.
Velbon: As with the Slik the preferred unit was the 3 legged 630 Model
for stability and setup speed. Leg locks are metal and rubber twists.
Highest profile of all tripods tested. Wider and shorter than the Gitzo
or Slick. Not as easy to use for smaller hands because of their
thickness. Legs tend to spin when being locked or unlocked. Must only do
one leg at a time. Leg angle locks are similar to Slik, easy to use and
tighten. Centre column is also alloy. Locking ring located below base
plate is easy to use. Post can be reversed for low work. Centre post can
be split leaving it with the lowest profile of all of the tripods. 640
Model comes with sling for under tripod to hold rocks etc. for added
weight.
All tripods are fine for vertically challenged people but not so great
for you six footers. Light weight, not recommended for anything over a
300 MM F4.5 lens.
Rob Bacon
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