Feisol tripods

Curt · Mar 23, 2009

Looking over the Feisol tripods it becomes apparent that the load capacity is 19 pound or better, with that maybe someone can tell me if they are stable in regards to turning force. Having a light weight tripod with a big load capacity are they inclined to tip over?

A $200 leg set with a 19 plus pound load limit seems too good to be true, but the center column would have to be added to come up from child to adult height, another $$ but nothing objectionable.

Anyone use a 4x5 or 5x7 on one and which model, center column and head did you get? Or... are there other carbon fiber light weight small travel length tripods to consider?

I want one specifically for travel by air and on public transportation. If it has to go in the cargo hold of the plane then it doesn't matter and I will keep what I have, I would buy one if I could take it on the plane and put it in the overhead compartment.

Thanks
Curt

edtbjon · Mar 23, 2009

As you've posted this on the Medium format subforum, I'll ramble a bit on that first. I use a 3401 tripod with a CB-50 ballhead for my Hasselblad. I'm very content with that combo, as I find it to be a very good compromise between weight and portability. (It's always down to that compromise. How much/large do you want to carry vs. stability.) I'm pretty sure that I would have similar success with a 4x5 Tachihara/Chamonix/Shen-Hao/..., but I don't have any wood folder camera right now. About the height, I find that if I extend all four leg sections I rarely extend my center column at all, and I'm 6'2".
Of course I do try to note the wind etc. as the tripod is very light-weight. Whenever possible I hang my backpack with the rest of the lenses, mags etc as a bulk-weight from the hook which is standard on most center columns.
As I stated above it's a matter of a compromise, where things have gone slighty better with carbon fibre. But still basic laws of physics apply and not least common sense. But compared to a good "old-style" tripod with aluminum legs, you do get the same stability at roughly half the weight.

(For the record, I use a Sinar C for my LF shooting for which I bought a larger 3371 tripod which easily holds a 5x7" Sinar setup with a Apo-Ronar 480 on the front end. I use a Sinar pan/tilt head on a Feisol leveling base, which have proven very stable. But this is not what you're looking for, as I take it you are using much lighter cameras.)

//Björn

jovo · Mar 23, 2009

I use the Feisol 3301 for both my P67, and Shen Hao 4x5. It's an excellent 'pod that's very stable and, with a ball head or pan head is more than tall enough for me (5' 8.5"); in fact I sometimes don't even extend the legs fully. Without a center column it's just as tall as the Bogen/Manfrotto 3021 in fact (I set them up side by side to compare.) If you also buy the long metal points for the legs, you get an extra inch or more into the bargain. More than enough for me!

I've found the 3301 to be just as stable as the 3021, and it's easy to release the legs to extend them beyond their default spread which means that you can make it even more stable than it already is.

Terence · Mar 23, 2009

I use the 3442 and CB-50 with a 5x7 Deardorff. With little to no raised center column, it's stable in most conditions. Heavy winds knock out using the camera anyway as the bellows catch too much wind.

I bought a 3441 from someone here who routinely used it with a Toyo AII 4x5, which I also bought. I would say that combo is too light for my tastes.

TimVermont · Mar 23, 2009

I use a CT3402N with a 6008 Rollei, Fuji 6x9 & smaller for travel. I use only a leveling head and L-brackets, no problems.

Curt · Mar 24, 2009

I haven't found the center columns and prices yet. I'm still deciding on the model.

jovo · Mar 24, 2009

Curt said:
I haven't found the center columns and prices yet. I'm still deciding on the model.

Curt, if you haven't found this link yet use it. Kerry Thalmann is aces to deal with.

http://reallybigcameras.com/Feisol/Feisol

wally · Mar 24, 2009

jovo said:
Curt, if you haven't found this link yet use it. Kerry Thalmann is aces to deal with.

I can't agree more. I'm extremely happy with the transaction I had, and the tripod's the best I've ever used. Pentax 67 and Shen Hao HZ both do just fine. I weigh my tripod down by hooking my camera bag underneath. No evidence of shutter noise on the Pentax, and as long as I block the wind, no motion blurring on the Shen Hao with my 240mm lens.

ReallyBigCameras · Mar 24, 2009

Curt,

As John and Wally kindly pointed out, my company, Really Big Cameras, is an authorized Feisol dealer - and an (there was a url link here which no longer exists).

You can see a complete listing of specs and prices for all Feisol models here.

There are two Feisol models that meet your requirement of being small enough to fit in a carry-on size bag. Those are the CT-3441S and the CT-3442. Both have legs that fold upward 180 degrees to engulf the center column and/or an appropriately sized ballhead. That means the the folded length remains very short (16.9" for the CT-3441S and 18.9" for the CT-3442) even with the center column and ballhead installed. This means no disassembly is necessary to fit either model inside a carry-on size bag. I also sell ballheads (Feisol and Photo Clam) that fit within the reverse folded legs of these Feisol models.

If you have any questions, or would like to discuss your specific requirements, please fell free to send me an email at:

sales@reallybigcameras.com

Kerry Thalmann
Really Big Cameras

JLP · Mar 27, 2009

Curt, I use the CT3471 with center post and a Manfrotto 410 head for my 8x10 Chamonix and of course anything smaller. Perfect match.

Curt · Apr 2, 2009

CT-3441SB: Can anyone give an estimate of the quality of the ball head on this model? Does the tripod include the center column. I need to consider this then I will call and talk to Kerry.

I have two ball heads, one is a Linhof, Large and heavy but the top comes right of and it converts from 3/8" 16 to 1/4" 20 which is very handy, no camera thread converter needed. The other is a Leica, just as tall as the Linhof but about an inch in diameter. It's OK but not smooth because the ball is milled like threads so it is rough moving. The Linhof has the capability of mounting on a 3/8 or 1/4 inch center column. I've used it but I'm not that impressed with using a ball head on a camera other than a roll film model. I posted this in the medium format forum because I was initially looking for a tripod for up to an RB67 but David suggested taking my 4x5 field camera to Hawaii on my trip in a few weeks so I started thinking about a tripod that would handle a field camera also. The RB is about the same weight as a small 4x5 field camera.

Jan it looks like you have a nice setup for the Chamonix 8x10, is that Manfrotto 410 a geared type head? I believe I saw a picture of one, looks interesting.

The CT-3441SB if the center column is included is complete with leg set, column, head and all in a package that fits in a carry on travel case or bag. If it can handle the equipment I have, who could ask for anything more? The Gitzo and other Carbon Fiber tripods are $$$, this setup looks very inviting. Now if the tripod had the option of storing 120 film in the legs it would be a total space saving kit.

I also have a Berlebach with a Bogen / Manfrotto 3047, a Bogen 1507, a Gitzo Studex with a #5 that requires two people to move, a Slik and some other misc. models. The Calumet C1 actually is best on the older Bogen 1507 with a center brace, which I usually don't like, and the cranking type center column. The Berlebach is best for 4x5 field, Kodak 2D in 5x7 and 8x10 and my Seneca 5x7 and 8x10. My Nikon f3HP, Mamiya 645's, RB67, Busch C don't fall into my tripod collection and usual require the Berlebach which is over kill. I won't even mention the two complete Calumet 400 whatever model cameras sitting in their cases. I hear a voice in the wilderness that whispers: "Simplify".

Thanks,
Curt

Curt · Apr 4, 2009

I just realized how the CT-3441S extends so tall, it has a two piece telescoping center column. I missed that completely until yesterday. Clever design but as one reviewer said, a fully extended center column is like using a monopod. I never thought of it that way but it makes sense. I also read that the tripod is 4 inches in diameter as opposed to the small Gitzo. The Gitzo tripods are $$$ though.

I'm beginning to like the CT-3441S with it's compact length and folded up with ball head. I still don't know and have not seen the ball head or heard of anyone using it. Would it be a $100.00 + mistake? Without seeing the equipment it's buying on faith isn't it?

JLP · Apr 4, 2009

Curt, The Manfrotto 410 is a geared head and works very well with the Chamonix. There's a larger 405 head but i don't feel that it is needed for the Chamonix.
Can't tell you which tripod to buy but i am very happy with the quality of the Feisol and would buy one again if i needed another Tripod.

eddie · Apr 4, 2009

Two years ago, a friend lent me his Feisol, as I was in the market for a new, lighter tripod. I had a Calumet Wood Field and a Cambo on it. It was well built and solid. I would have purchased one, but the next day, another friend offered to sell me a 2 month old Gitzo CF, for under $300. I went with the Gitzo, but am sure I would have been just as happy with the Feisol.
I also use the Manfrotto 410. It's a great head. I don't like using a ball head, for 4x5. I now use it with my RB and Rolleiflex, too.

Curt · Apr 9, 2009

Of the two Kerry mentioned that fold back 180 degrees, the slightly longer, two inches, CT-3442 should have more load capacity but 22 lbs is the same for the two models. What will the CT-3442 hold, I have a wood 5x7 that weighs 8 lbs, is the tripod capable of supporting it?

If the CT-3442 can be taken in the carry-on and will support a 5x7 then it would be more useful to me. Otherwise the CT-3441S is the one that will fit my needs for the RB and a wooden field 4x5. They weigh right around 5.5 plus depending on the lens.

jeroldharter · Apr 9, 2009

I bought a 3342 from Kerry and I am quite please. I use an Arca ball head or an Acratech ball head, both of which are reasonably light.

I use an Arca Swiss F-line Metric with the above combination with no problem. It is "a bit tippy" however. If it is windy I am careful to add some weight to the S-hook under the platform which works well. The quality is very good. I would want a larger model for 8x10.

Terence · Apr 9, 2009

I have the 3441 and the 3442. I really only use the 3441 when I'm going backcountry with a light camera, or when I'm not sure if I'll need a tripod, but want the option but don't want to carry around "too much" tripod in the event I never use it.

The 3442 is a sturdy option for everything up to my 5x7 Deardorff (so long as it's not too windy). If I didn't have the 3441 also, I'd think the was the most convenient, sturdy tripod I'd ever owned.

Curt · Apr 9, 2009

Thank you Jerold, I see that you choose the three leg model which is a little longer folded, was the choice because it is more stable or quicker to set up? Do you have the center column or just use it without at the maximum height? I'm 5'10" and have had a laminectomy/discectomy making it painful to stay stooped over with a tripod that's too short. A center column that adds a few inches would make a big difference for me. Can I ask if the Arca Swiss F-line Metric is a 5x7 model? Again, thanks.

Terence, it sounds like the 3442 works for up to a wood model 5x7 like your Deardorff, do you have the need to hang a bag or weight on the hook too?

For 8x10 I have my Berlebach wood tripod and a Bogen 3047 until such time as I see the need or have to get a lighter tripod, then I will get a larger cf tripod. Clearly there is no one tripod for every occasion. The 3442 is the shortest carry-on Feisol that extends high enough with a center column, for me, and will support more than what I would take on a plane right now.

Thank you all for the help.
Curt

Terence · Apr 9, 2009

I usually hang my bag from the (standard) hook. It's really only needed if there's a windy condition. But the tripod is light enough to tip over easily, so the extra weight is usually a good idea. The tripod is very light, but rigid.

archphoto · Apr 9, 2009

Besides the qualities of the tripod, I am wondering if the airline crew would like the idea of having a possible attack weapon in the pasengers compartment.
I havn't tried it out yet, I like to go on safe and keep my tripod in my suitcase to avoid any problems.
Do check with the airlines you are planning to fly with beforehand.

Peter

Curt · Apr 10, 2009

No Matches Were Found for 'tripod'

Attack weapon? Hell they haven't even heard of a tripod? That's the TSA and the airlines, it would probably shock the c**p out of them if I showed up with one in my carry-on. And here I am looking for the right carry-on tripod, my God I need to wake up and smell the coffee. I'm here in the local World and completely forgot about the real World. Maybe I should carry three tripod legs separately and tell them they are my three walking canes.

Besides the qualities of the tripod, I am wondering if the airline crew would like the idea of having a possible attack weapon in the passengers compartment.

jeroldharter · Apr 10, 2009

Curt said:
Thank you Jerold, I see that you choose the three leg model which is a little longer folded, was the choice because it is more stable or quicker to set up? Do you have the center column or just use it without at the maximum height? I'm 5'10" and have had a laminectomy/discectomy making it painful to stay stooped over with a tripod that's too short. A center column that adds a few inches would make a big difference for me. Can I ask if the Arca Swiss F-line Metric is a 5x7 model? Again, thanks.

Curt

Curt,

The three section model fits in a standard suitcase. I really like the 2 section legs on my Berlebach and dislike the 4 section legs on my Gitzo so I went with 3 section legs on the Feisol. I think it is a bit more solid because the distal pieces are larger gauge material than the 4 piece. I am 5'10" (but I round off to 6'2") also. I did not get a center column and the tripod is tall enough. I don't extend the legs all the way or the camera would be too high. The Arca is 4x5.

Curt · Apr 13, 2009

The three section model fits in a standard suitcase.

And that is the way I have traveled, with the tripod in my suitcase. Jerold presents a good case for the longer tripod.

Besides the qualities of the tripod, I am wondering if the airline crew would like the idea of having a possible attack weapon in the passengers compartment.

Which lead me to contact the TSA and see what the the definitive answer is.

Thank you for your e-mail.

We are committed to both excellent security and customer service. TSA has published guidelines to help passengers through airport security. The guidelines include a list of permitted items as well as an expanded list of items prohibited from aircraft cabins. The prohibited and permitted items chart is not intended to be all-inclusive and is updated as necessary. To ensure everyone's security, the screener may determine that an item not on this chart is prohibited. TSA reviews these lists periodically and changes are announced and posted as necessary.

We encourage you to visit our website at www.tsa.gov for additional information about TSA. All travelers, and particularly those who travel infrequently, are encouraged to visit the section on travel tips before their trip. However, we also encourage frequent flyers to review the guidelines periodically. The website has information about prohibited and permitted items, the screening process and procedures, and guidance for special considerations, that may assist in preparing for air travel. You can find these tips and more at www.tsa.gov under the Travelers & Consumer section..

If a prohibited item is discovered at the checkpoint, you will be given the opportunity to either remove the item from the checkpoint or put it in the TSA disposal bin. Removing the item from the checkpoint includes, but is not limited to:

· leaving it with a friend

· placing the item in your checked baggage

· mailing it to yourself

· returning it to your car

There are no provisions for returning banned items when you choose to leave them at the security checkpoint.

We work very hard to establish consistency in the screening process. As we inspect security screening operations at airports and receive feedback from the traveling public, we address inconsistencies and ensure corrective actions are taken, when necessary.

Please visit our website at www.tsa.gov for additional information about TSA. We continue to add new information and encourage you to check the website frequently for updated information.

Please accept our appreciation for taking the time to share your thoughts and concerns with us. Your help and support are important contributions to ensuring the safety and security of the Nation's aviation system.

TSA Contact Center

There it is, the determination is determined at the time of check-in at the check point. Tripods are not on the list of prohibited items that I could find.

Camera Equipment -
Checked baggage screening
equipment will damage undeveloped film in camera equipment.
We recommend that you place undeveloped film and cameras
containing undeveloped film in your carry-on baggage or ask the carry-on baggage or ask the security officer to conduct a hand-inspection.

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