Tripod Question

[HappyFotographer]

Just gathering peoples opinions.

When using tripods, which do people find best.....wing knobs or the clips (sorry, don't know their proper names) on the legs?

My man wants to get me a tripod, and with my almost non existent budget I am looking at either the Manfrotto 190CL (with the clips) or the 190D (with the wing knobs).

Personal feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers
Deb

[Glen]

Deb, on a budget don't rule out the aluminium Benro's. Don't know how they compare to the Manfrotto prices, but the CF are 35-40% of the price of the CF Gitzo, they may be cheaper or you may find CF is in your range PS I use the twist locks as that is what the tripod had

[Antsl]

Hi Deb,

One of the advantages of having the clips on a tripod is that they tend to have a lower profile than the knobs, therefore they are less bulky and less likely to catch on things .... the disadvantage though is that you usually need to adjust the clips from time to time to keep them tight, otherwise they have a habit if slipping. At the end of the day it boils down to personal preference. I have clips on my Manfrotto although I usually have to tighten them from time to time (a small screwdriver is all you need to do this).

I have to say that I prefer both of these options to the screw type clamps that you find on some tripods like Gitzo etc.... over tighten these clamps and you may have a difficult time releasing them.

Hope this is a help!

[Glen]

Deb, just noticed that the 190 is very well priced disregard the Benro comments, the 190 starts at a lower price point. I think this is the model Killaloala has, he had some definite views about the different systems, I know like Ants he didn't like twist locks

[HappyFotographer]

Thanks Glen and Ants

Yes, the budget is really very, very small......that's what happens when you buy everyone else their presents and leave yours till last.

I was looking specifically at a kit at Vanbars (we are leaving for a weeks holiday tomorrow so am hoping to get something in the morning before we leave). They have the Manfrotto 190D+141RC Basic with QR head for $198.99 and the Manfrotto 190CL+141 Classic with 141 for $272.80...which I think would be pressing the friendship with my husband a bit too far.

I just wanted to make sure the screwy knobby things on the legs of the 190D were livable.....but it sounds like some might have had issues with them.

Wish my man was slightly more organised.

[Matt. K]

Deb
I just feel you will get more tripod for your dollar if you go with the Benro. They are beautifully crafted and almost as good as the Gitzo's. Check it out with Birdy.

[HappyFotographer]

Matt

believe me if I had more money I would go with benro...but I really have only $200.00 to spend, and I want to be able to get it tomorrow.....I know birdy is wonderful but I think even this would be beyond him judging by the prices listed in the bargains section. I don't want to bother him

thanks anyway.

[Killakoala]

Deb, just noticed that the 190 is very well priced disregard the Benro comments, the 190 starts at a lower price point. I think this is the model Killaloala has, he had some definite views about the different systems, I know like Ants he didn't like twist locks

I have the 055PROB, it cost me $190 last year. I also like the clips rather than the twists as it folds out and packs-up quicker. The 055PROB tripod is very heavy though and not much use for carrying around in a bag. The boot of the car is a better place for it It is sturdy, due to it's weight.

[HappyFotographer]

Thanks Steve

the 055PROB was one I was looking at a little while ago so am interested in hearing how heavy it is. The 190d is 1.8kg v the 055 at 2.4kgs so hopefully I will be able to cart it around.

[marcotrov]

I have the 055ProB and the 190 manfrottos. The 055 is heavier but very solid and versatile in its use. Takes seconds to prepare ot for shooting at almost ground level The 190 would be better for hiking but not as versatile.
cheers
marco

[christiand]

I have the Manfrotto 190D and the 141RC

I is not as light as a carbon fiber.
The 141RC takes time to adjust.
The combination of the two weighs 2.7k including camera mounting plate.
I find it a good entry level combination, it has not let me down.
It will take some wear and tear.
I happily supports 2.k kgs and more.

If I were to by a different tripod, I'd look at a carbon fiber one.
If I'd buy a different tripod head, I'd look at a ball head.

HTH,

CD

[nito]

I have a 190D, and the main thing I can say is its heavy! Not good for travel and it barely fits inside a rolling suit case on those interndational trips. Its mass has its advantages, like it doesnt blow in the wind as much.