I didn't remember the correct model no. I've got a 1227. I've found that I
almost always (99%) of the time carry the tripod in my hand with a camera
mounted on it. The only time the length is an issue, is carrying it when I
bicycle. Weight makes a big difference however.
I converted from an aluminum Manfroto. The older Gitzo leg lock I've got
which can rotate the leg segment is a useability weakness. The newer ones
should be an improvement. I managed to pinch myself using the flip locks on
the Manfroto all too often. They are also noisy. I probably have a slight
preference for the Gitzo leg locks vs. Manfroto. Velbon or Slik may have
"friendlier" flip locks. The Gitzo design seems to provide reinforcement to
the end of the tube. I don't think the flip locks provide the same
reinforcement but I don't know if it is really necessary.
The four leg segments typically adds significantly to the weight and is
claimed to reduce the stability because of the smaller diameter of the
bottom segment. Personally I don't think the smaller leg diameter would be a
problem except on a slippery floor. The tradeoff comes down to collapsed
size vs. weight. I would again choose to save the weight.
The Acratech head is very nice, light, and maintenance free.
Good luck deciding,
-jeff
----Original Message Follows----
From: Bernard Frangoulis <lists@xxxxxxxxx>
I have an eye on this tripod as well, but it's a little too big for my
taste: 66 cm length when folded (that's 26" for you nonmetric people), 1.42
kg weight (3.1 lbs). 66cm plus 10cm or so for a ballhead, that's far to long
to fit my backpack. Even the 4-section 1258 is too long: 55 cm (21.7")
length when folded, 1.42 kg (3.1 lbs) weight.
I think a better compromise (for me at least) would be the 1158: 48 cm
(18.9") length when folded, 1.04 kg (2.3 lbs) weight. On the assumption that
a tripod you are willing to carry is better than a really good one you will
leave at home...
Now the price of Gitzos being what is is, I also have an eye on the Velbon
Sherpa Pro CF-640, 641, 540, 541, Slik CF 614F, or Feisol 3402. One of the
important points is: flip-locks ˆ la Manfrotto (easier and quicker,
particularly for 4-segment tripods), or Gitzo-style locks (more rigid? Never
used one).
I see no advantage in Manfrotto CF tripods, which are almost as heavy as
thair aluminium equivalents
The head would be a Markins M10 or Q3, or an RRS BH-40.
Bernard
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