Berlebach Report 3-Section Wood Tripod w/Leveling Ball & Center Column BE8043

bobwysiwyg · Nov 12, 2009

I'm hoping someone can give me some experience or feedback re: this tripod. I'm still pretty new to large format. I'm doing my learning with a Cambo SC 4x5. So far I have been getting by with a tripod I already had. It works OK, provided conditions are ideal. Yesterday I tried my hand at an architectural shot of a nearby mosque. It required standing out some ways in a field and it quite windy. Clearly the tripod I'm currently using is not sturdy enough. I'm not too concerned about weight. My current kit is a bit of a load anyway. My problem is I haven't found any detailed specs on this other than its weight. I can't find anything about its folded length, max load (though it appears more than adequate in this regard) nor its max height both with or without the center column extended. Anyone have any experience?

Colin Corneau · Nov 12, 2009

I've got one and they're solid, well made tripods. I've used it quite successfully with both a Crown Graphic and a Shen Hao 4x5.

Rob Skeoch at bigcameraworkshops.com sells them, FWIW

Shadow Images · Nov 12, 2009

Good tripods

Specifications
Max Height 49.2"
Max Height w/extended column 68.9"
Minimum Height 20.5"
Closed Length 28.3"
Max Load Capacity 17.63 lb
Weight 6.15 lb

bobwysiwyg · Nov 12, 2009

Colin,

Wow, that was quick! Thanks for the feedback and the lead.

bobwysiwyg · Nov 12, 2009

Shadow Images said:
Good tripods

Specifications
Max Height 49.2"
Max Height w/extended column 68.9"
Minimum Height 20.5"
Closed Length 28.3"
Max Load Capacity 17.63 lb
Weight 6.15 lb

Can't get more specific than that. Thanks.

RobertV · Nov 12, 2009

I am using the Berlebach report 8043 and the Berlebach 551 head. It's a terrific good combination and the ash wood tripods from Berlebach are really good made.

For further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Lee L · Nov 12, 2009

Been using a Report 8043 for about 3-4 years with 35mm rangefinders & slrs up to a wooden 4x5 field camera. I mostly use a Bogen 3437 3D quick release head, but with 4x5 I often mount straight to the tripod post since it has +/- 30 degrees of tilt. It dampens vibration very well. I really like the leg angle stops and how they work. It doesn't sink all the heat out of your hands in winter. Gets reasonably close to the ground for macro work even with the standard post in upright. The post is easily reversible, and I have a short center post as well for getting low. I rarely use my other tripods now, unless going to a 4x5 monorail.

Not sure without checking the website which model Shadow Images posted specs on, but there is a fairly wide range of models. Several places in the US carry them. HP Marketing distributes in the US IIRC.

Lee

Bruce A Cahn · Nov 13, 2009

They are pretty good, but do have a few disadvantages. The large ball head at the top is prone to loosening with an 8x10 on it. The legs do settle down, but are not as solid as a Ries. The plastic feet should be rubber. Otherwise very good, and great for the price.

rternbach · Nov 13, 2009

I have used one for several years with various medium format cameras and it has been an excellent asset. I have never used it with a 4x5 view camera though. Mine has rubber feet which are helpful indoors especially on smooth floors. Rubber can be raised to expose spikes for outdoor locations. I find the ash construction quite reliable and this also works to dampen vibrations. The hole at the bottom of the center column is useful for hanging a heavy bag with a stiff bungee. Finally, neither the finish nor the wood itself have suffered from standing in shallow streams and ponds for extended periods (hours).

RT

canuhead · Nov 13, 2009

I have the 8023 which is the same 'cept for the levelling head. I like it for it's size when travelling but it's not my goto 4x5 tripod. Also had the 3042 but sold it and got a Ries instead. Imo the Ries are much better built than the Berlebachs. Better build and finish and I believe more stable, especially with the 'any angle' leg locks. The Ries two way heads are great platforms to park cameras on top of as well. If you're price sensitive, the Berlebachs are less expensive though. I'll probably never get rid of the Ries as along a I'm shooting lf.

I think either is better than the Zone VI sticks.

Berlebach Report 3-Section Wood Tripod w/Leveling Ball & Center Column BE8043

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