Tripod for Field 4x5

[Vaughn]

A gitzo 2-series should suit...

This is what I am currently using for 4x5 and 5x7. Sturdy enough to help with minor stream crossings, too.

[John Bowen]

My issue with tripods is I'm 6'6". Had a Zone VI small tripod and it was too darn short. Had a Zone VI large tripod and it was too darn heavy. I settled on Ries J tripods. You can order varying lengths and "if they were good enough for Edward Weston....."
Good luck in your quest,
John

[Kirk Gittings]

Used tripods can be a great value. Like many things, the devil is in the details. Many tripods I've used, and during my photo assistant days I used quite a few, often have weak points, such as narrow throats, balky leg clamps, parts that catch on everything....

While I use and like a lot of Manfrotto stuff, and I realize that Manfrotto and Gitzo are now one, I greatly prefer Gitzo tripods. The locks are more progressive, secure, resistant to debris, easy to service.... The crown of a Gitzo tripod is larger which leads to very good stability, and there are a lot of accessories available used, such as flat plates, spiked feet, center columns.....

For a Zone VI 4x5, I'd get a used Gitzo series 3 aluminum tripod from about 1990 on. I have one, and it's my most-used tripod. A Gitzo rational series 3 low profile pan/tilt head would be a great match.

The other option, if you want to spend more money, would be a Ries J wooden tripod and head. Super stuff, but expensive. No center column options....

I wouldn't recommend getting a Zone VI tripod. The smaller one just isn't that great. (I had one for many years.) The big one is a terrific tripod, but it's very heavy and bulky, and it's way overkill for a light 4x5 field camera.

I've never used one of the Leitz Tiltalls. I'd love to try one.

I have a small Gitzo carbon fiber tripod for long distance travel. It's certainly lightweight and rigid enough, but as Kirk mentions light weight can = easily blown over.

Peter your mailbox is full!

[Drew Wiley]

Heck. I just sold somebody a total piece of crap import CST survey tripod for $75 yesterday (brand new), and even it has far better support than the average pro camera tripod. I could have sold him a domestic wood and fiberglass one for under $200 with a lifetime warranty. So don't forget about that kind of option. All you need to do is switch out the 5/8 turnknob for 3/8. Of course, I wouldn't personally be caught with anything less than a genuine Ries under such circumstances. Otherwise, I use CF Gitzo and Feisol units when minimal weight is the priority.

[Fred L]

Depending how far I'm hoofing it on foot, it's either a carbon fibre Gitzo with ball head or a Ries J100 with double tilt head.

[Jac@stafford.net]

[...] a Ries J100 with double tilt head.

Yes!
.

[Daniel Stone]

I have found my Induro CT214 works great, and they're cheap($$$ wise). Ya, made in China, but I much prefer the leg lock knobs to my 3-series Gitzo.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...14_Tripod.html

[soeren]

I waited decades before finally getting a good, composite tripod. Very happy with a FEISOL now.

Thank you very much for that GAS inducing link
Which one du you have, legs, head, center column etc.?
Impression, ups and downs.
Can you use it with legs spread out flat on the ground?
Im kind of falling in love with the tournament 3342 rapid.
Best regards

[Luis-F-S]

There is a reason as to why Fred sold wooden tripods with his camera . Any one of the wooden Ries tripods would be great. With 4x5 their J100 tripod is great. If that's too much money look for a used one or a used Berlebach as a second choice. With either one use a Ries J200-250 head. L

[Jac@stafford.net]

Thank you very much for that GAS inducing link
Which one du you have, legs, head, center column etc.?
Impression, ups and downs.
Can you use it with legs spread out flat on the ground?
Im kind of falling in love with the tournament 3342 rapid.
Best regards

I got the 3372LV : http://reallybigcameras.com/Feisol/CT-3372_CT-3472.htm
("LV" indicates that it is supplied with a leveling center column.) I also got the mount plate to eliminate the center column.

It is the model that can lay flat on the ground with just a flip of the top locks.

Also included was a case, carry strap and the tools needed to adjust things if necessary (three hex wrenches and a socket tool.)