4X5 tripod..............Carbon fiber or Aluminum for hiking???

[Pioneer]

I use my little Slik Pro 330DX for my Intrepid 4x5, Crown Graphic and Graflex Auto RB. It is aluminum and very light so it is very easy to pack. It is rated for 6.6 pounds and collapses to 18.5 inches, which is pretty close to what you are looking for. No extra doodads like levels (I carry those in my pocket), it is just a very simple tripod that works.

I removed the extension tube and installed a cap with a hook eye on the bottom. I use this to attach my backpack with an elastic cord for additional stability if needed.

The 3 way pan head is removable and I most frequently just leave that at home.

I also own carbon fiber and wood (prefer wood) but I normally use those for the big stuff. I used to pack the carbon fiber everywhere but as I got older I got a bit more savvy.

 

[M. Axel Wikstrom]

Wood. Not much heavier than aluminum of the same camera weight rating, and likely better at dampening vibration than carbon fiber. Looks a hell of a lot better too.

 

[Vaughn]

And I think that, generally, wood takes a better beating. Anything that will split the wood, would have bent aluminum and shattered carbon fiber into unusefullness. If I did something that would break the wood, then I should be worried about breaking my bones, too!

warning: completely unverified information...use at your own risk.

 

[philosomatographer]

One of the best photographic investments I've made, was to buy a big Gitzo Carbon Fibre tripod, now more than seven years ago. The rigidity is far beyond any Aluminium tripod I've ever used, and if I don't lose it, it will last me a lifetime.

You just can't go wrong. Mine is total overkill for hiking, and much more stable than what my biggest 4x5in camera requires - it would handle a big 8x10 with ease. Like many others have said - don't ever get a centre column - just put a nice ballhead directly on the tripod.

 

[Kodachromeguy]

Like many others have said - don't ever get a centre column - just put a nice ballhead directly on the tripod.

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I see from the picture that you have a MagicBall. Neat. How does it work in the field compared to the standard ball that sits in a cup on the bottom? I only once looked at the Magic during a trip to New York, but never tried one in the field with my equipment. Thanks for hints.