Tripod for EF 500mm f4L IS USM

[nickmak]

Hi guys and girls,

I have a small question to ask for a big lens. I'm set on the Canon 500mm now and was wondering if I can still use the my manfrotto 190ProB tripod legs. I'm 170 cm and I think with the Wimberly sidekick and the Arca-Swiss ballhead the camera-lens set up should be about my height perfectly. I'm just curious as to whether the tripod legs can take the weight of the lens and camera. I hope I can still keep this tripod because I'll already have to use the $$$ for the 500mm, the Arca-Swiss ballhead and Wimberly Sidekick. If the tripod buay tahan the weight, could you recommend me another tripod (I know the Gitzo ones are great, but I'm not familiar with the models and series.)

Regards,
Nick

[ccplim]

Hi Nick,

The max load of 190proB is only about 5kg and it will not be enough for the 500mm+the weight of your camera body.

You might want to consider the 3 section Gitzo G1325 CF (witout center column) that a few of us are using here for the big gun. :) The last price I heard sometime last month is about S$700+.

[Garion]

Hi Nick,

Look no further than the Gitzo G1325 CF tripod. 3 sections, weighs just 2kg, max load of 12kg, and extremely stable. The tripod of choice amongst amateurs and pros using long lenses up to the 600mm f4. Cost locally is about SGD$900, from Cathay Photo Store. The height of the tripod is ideal for those ard 1.7m in height, or slightly taller even.

No doubt it may seem expensive, but it is the last tripod you would ever want to get. :thumb:

Pls DO NOT use your Manfrotto 190ProB to support your long lens setup, as ccplim mentioned, it is insufficient of such weight load, you do not want to compromise the stability and the risk of thousands of dollars of equipment crashing to the ground.

[nickmak]

Hi!

Thanks for your advice. I guess I can sell my 190ProB then to fund for the Gitzo. Thanks for your help!

Oh yea, Garion, I think I'm getting the 500mm in June or July so do you wanna get your then?

Cheers,
Nick

[MountainMan]

You can consider using a Manfrotto 055 instead. I have been using this for my 500f4 for years now.

PS: if you are selling your 190B, let me know.

MM

[Arthur]

Yo bro nick,

Like MountainMan has suggested, if you want a cheaper alternative, you may like to try the 055 or 055Pro out. Presently I'm using 055Pro (with the center column removed, so I can carry it on my shoulder) and this tripod is steady as a rock...anyhow wrack also no problem! But the downside is it's weight....a bit on the heavy side compared with your 190 and other more expensive tripods.

Cheers

[ccplim]

Hi!

Thanks for your advice. I guess I can sell my 190ProB then to fund for the Gitzo. Thanks for your help!

Oh yea, Garion, I think I'm getting the 500mm in June or July so do you wanna get your then?

Cheers,
Nick

Nick,

If you are checking out the 1325 over at your side, do let me know what is the price like. Might want to change mine too :p

[nickmak]

Sure, will be going to town today and will check.

Cheers,
Nick