tripod ........

[srupp]

I just 'exchanged" :twisted: my Leupold HD spotting scope for a SWAROVSKI 65mm 20-60 power zoom..

Now I need a new tripod...I looked back @ the previous discussions on tripods and seemed that a lot liked the MANFROTTO 718HSB

OR SLIK??

WHAT SAY YE....

Steven

[bigwhiteys]

MANFROTTO 718HSB

I will say this is a good tripod... Although I am little dissapointed with the "longevity" mine is already showing some wear and tear and slopyness and it's just over a year old.

The "Quick Release" feature is a nice touch but there is a tiny bit of play in there that you cannot get out and it SUCKS if you're glassing on a windy day. Not to mention your scope can take a jump quite easily. A problem if you're playing with $2000+ glass. *edited to add. My experience has been with my Zeiss Diascope 85mm. It's a heavier scope and right on the borderline for the tripods weight limit... Might be part of my problem.

This Tripod (http://shop.outdoorsmans.com/product.sc?categoryId=28&productId=8) Is The NICEST Money Can Buy For Hunting - Just a little heavy. But you won't find anything better this tripod is slick.

Carl

[ibehuntin]

Check out berlebach tripods. I think there one of the better ones depending on intended use.

[alremkin]

Hm, I added that site to my favorites. I noticed they have a rifle rest for their tripod. In the past I've used my tripod, I used to use a heavy one before I got my lightweight Elite Spotting Scope, for cross canyon shots. The light tripod I use now is too light although I do have a heavier one I haven't used yet. So I'll be looking into this.:-)

[srupp]

I bought a MANFROTTO today..

Steven

[MattB]

Which one? I have the 714shb digi. I swapped heads on it and put the 486rc2 (or something like that) on it.

[srupp]

I believe its the 718 SHB..

compact 14" when folded ..and fairly light..bought it on the advice of several knowlegable guys...It will be here on Friday $120..plus tx.

Steven

[MattB]

Right on, hopefully it doesnt have the same shitty weak head mine had.

[bigwhiteys]

Right on, hopefully it doesnt have the same shitty weak head mine had.

What was the problem with yours Matt...?

Carl

[MattB]

Just had a weak head and didnt hold the 20-60x85mm zeiss too steady ;-)

[Stone Sheep Steve]

Just had a weak head and didnt hold the 20-60x85mm zeiss too steady ;-)

Mine could hold it a little tighter as well, even though my spotter's only a 65mm. Seems like I really have to crank down on the handle for it to hold steady.

SSS

[MattB]

Which tripod do you have Brent?

[Stone Sheep Steve]

I believe I've got the 718SHB.

SSS

[srupp]

OH OH did Ruppster make yet another mistake???

Elmer Fudd Ruppster

[Gateholio]

No, it's a good tripod.

Lock tite the screw that holds the quick detach piece in place, and if you are having prooblems tightening up the handle, try a little silicone sealer tape.

A bit of experimenting wiht it before a trip should reveal any bugs. I like mine, don't find I have to tighten too much, although maybe I am just ham fisted.:lol:

[MattB]

Here's what the 714shb digi looks like with the 486RC2 head swapped onto it. I had to do a few mods to get the head on, like running a 12" bolt through the main tripod tube to attach the head. This had to be done because the old bolt was way too small for the new head. Im happy with it now!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v615/matthew_brown69/P1020169.jpg

[Stone Sheep Steve]

My issue is not with the QR plate. It's hard to explain in type....but if I turn the handle REALLY tight it snugs up. Not so good for holding locking on to your target once it's spotted. There is some natural verticle play in there kind of like a washer is missing or something. I tried adding a washer but it didn't help.
The play is even there without the spotter on the tripod so that rules out the QR plate.

SSS

[MattB]

Swap heads :wink:

[BCrams]

Anyone want to donate a Swaro scope to me!

[MattB]

If you wanted to pack a heavy zeiss around the mtns i could always lend ya mine.

[srupp]

Thanks Stonechaser...after the fiasco with the LEUPOLD HD...and getting Susans permission to upgrade even further to the Swarovski..I wanted to ensure the tripod was up to the task and had the "jam " to get the job done even in a wind..

And with the Swarovski model I chose..the angled eyepiece @ 45 degrees will mean I dont have to raise the tripod the same amount of heghth that a straight spotting scope needs..

The lady at the camera store...Jackie assured me that ANY problems bring it back....and it will do double duty for my digital Nikon D200 camera..

entire outfit here Friday..

THANKS GUYS APRECIATE ALL THE HELP...now where were those stone sheep so I can test the spotting scope????lol

Steven