Tripod for backpacking trip: Induro CT114 vs CT214

[Riverman]

I need to find a light and compact tripod suitable for an 8 night backpacking trip later in the year. It will support an Acratech ballhead and a Chamonix 4x5 with either a 135mm (Rodenstock Sironar N f5.6) or 200mm (Nikkor M f8).

I've narrowed my search down to one of the following:

- Induro CT 114
- Induro CT 214

Spec wise they seem similar to the Gitzo 1541 and 2541 respectively. I know the CT-214 will be more solid than the CT-114 but as I am going to have to carry so much else in my pack for several days - tent, sleeping bag, food etc - I really want to keep the weight of my photo gear down as much as possible.

Is the use of such a light tripod as the CT 114 (or Gitzo equivalent 1541) a realistic proposition for 4x5?

Does anyone have experience of either of these Induro tripods?

[gary mulder]

If it's suits you photography buy a leveling tripod, skip the weight of the ballhead and gain stability in the process. Only if you often take shots with your camera angled down ore up more than 15 degree, you really need a head.

[Riverman]

Thanks Gary - an interesting idea that I hadn't previously considered. Is there a leveling tripod that you would recommend?

[gary mulder]

I use a gitzo G1257LVL. Which I altered in a way that the column can rotate. The weight (measured) is 1590 gram. But I think other brands offer something similar. I use it with a Linhof tech 4 x 5. Often with a fujinon A 240mm f9.
I think this is the lightest al round tripod option. If I really want to go light I use a gitzo gt1540T with a G1177M head, weight 1180 gram. But with some limitations. Height, wind, long exposure times.

[Larry Gebhardt]

I use a Feisol 3342, which i believe is in between the CT214 and CT114 in max weight (but seems to weigh less than either). I have no issues with stability with this and the Chamonix 4x5. I have tried the leveling base approach and it didn't work well for me. The Acratech ball head is not much heavier, and much more flexible. So I suspect either one would work well for you.