Ries tripod for 8x10?

[Herb Cunningham]

I like the j100-2 with the double clamp heavier legs.

[CXC]

If at all possible, try out a Ries before purchase. The lack of stops on the legs makes it a very fussy operation to set it up squarely. Unless you may eventually go ULF, there are other options that are more than adequate and easier to manipulate, such as Gitzo. As I learned the hard, expensive way.

[Robert MacKimmie]

I use an A100/250 for the 8x10 Deardorff and a J-100 with a vintage single-direction tilt head for the 5x7 Deardorff. I can't imagine a finer experience than using a Deardorff with a Ries Tripod. May I also comment that the current owners of Ries Tripod treated me remarkably well. More than twenty-five years ago, I was lucky to find the J-100 used for just over $40, and purchased the new A-100 around 1981. There was a bit of poor manufacturing in the early 1980s, but the current owners of Ries Tripod solved every problem I faced with the big Ries and I am a huge fan of their very favorable treatment of customers. Both tripods are remarkable and the new Ries Tripods kept the old charm and usefulness, while adding remarkable new engineering and specifications. I would take one nice Ries over a boatload of Gitzos! Perfect for 8x10.