Tripod/head for Sinar P 8x10?

[Blair Ware]

A couple of weeks ago, I picked up a Sinar 8x10 change kit without having the body. I then picked up a 4x5 body and a 5x7 change kit. I now have a great system, but my tripod is overwhelmed (especially when using a 450mm lens and the 8x10 back.

I would like to drag this camera out into the field (any field will do, e.g., my backyard) and need a sturdy but lightish tripod and head. I currently have a Manfrotto 410 geared head that I really like, but fear it will not be up to the task.

Suggestions for a tripod and head combination are most welcome. Thanks.

--Blair--

PS: how about a headless tripod?

[Frank Petronio]

ABSOLUTELY the Sinar pan-tilt head. Do not even consider anything else, there is nothing better for your Sinar, you have to get it. You'll thank me. You can tip a long heavy 8x10 down without any creep.

Traditionally most photographers use a heavy #5 series Gitzo underneath. I currently use an older metal 500 with the leveling base and love it. You can get a newer CF version which may be more damp but sometimes the mass of a metal tripod is good for an awkwardly balanced 8x10.

To be truly Swiss-perfect you should get a Foba tripod ;-) but they are rare in North America.

[philipmorg]

I'd second the Sinar Pan-Tilt tripod head recommendation. It has the best strength to weight ratio of any tripod head I've ever seen, its low profile is helpful with monorail cameras, and it can be easily refurbished by the spirited amateur if it becomes worn.

[Clive Gray]

Yet another recommendation for the Sinar Pan Tilt, it's designed so the rail clamp locks on to it solidly which it doesn't really do with most tripod heads.


They are heavy and not a lot of people either seem to have heard of them or like them but the Slik professional range are good for 10X8 and in the UK at least so dealers have been selling them off at clearance prices.

[erie patsellis]

/\ What they said, I have a pile (literally) of heads and have been hunting a sinar down for a while.

[Blair Ware]

That's not good; now there are two of us in the hunt.

Any suggestions on where to find a Sinar head?

--Blair--

[Jeffrey Sipress]

There certainly are other options, folks! Apparently, Blaire doesn't want a ballhead. The Manfrotto 410 is way stronger than it looks, and has quick release rapid motion on each axis.

[Blair Ware]

Clive, B&H has the Sliks with head at $600 US. Is that close to the UK sell-off price?

--Blair--

[Blair Ware]

Jeffery, the 410 is rated for 11 lb, and I am pretty sure the 8x10 Sinar will be more than that.

Has anyone experienced a tilted 8x10 on a 410 and lived tell the tale? I ask because one of the B&H reviewers talked about slippage on a 410 (something I have never had happen).

--Blair--

[BennehBoy]

I tried my P2 8x10 with a 410 and it's like a pendulum - avoid.

I've never regretted picking up a Sinar Pan/Tilt head.