Ries A100 or A100-2?

[cloudswimmer]

Hello , I've been looking into getting a Ries tripod and head for my black Calumet C-1.The A100 is rated at 25lbs, and the A100-2 is rated at 60lbs.My camera is 18lbs, the Ries head 4lbs, long lens 4lbs, so right there I'm at 26lbs, plus there is the leverage of extending the bellows.So should I then get the A100-2?I'm not sure how conservative Ries is on their weight ratings.As to the head, there is the A200 and A250 double tilt.I'm assuming for my heavy 8x10 there is no need for the double tilt model?Thanks!

Chris

 

[reggie]

I use the A100 and double tilt head for 8x10 and 12x20. It is a great combo and I highly recommend the double tilt head - it is very handy out in the field. I have owned the single and dbl tilt and I defenitely would go with the dbl tilt.

-R

 

[Chazzy]

I follow these tripod threads with interest because the tripod I have is so inadequate. I have come to the conclusion that I really need two new tripods: one chosen for weight and transportability, and the other with no compromises in rigidity or weight load for use at home. The latter is more important to me--the outdoors just makes me sneeze--so I have been thinking both about the A100 and about a Majestic. From what I've heard, either would be satisfactory even with 11x14. So keep up all the comments guys. They're very informative.

 

[Pinholemaster]

The Ries is simply a beauty to look at and use. Why use metal when there is wood. Also wood dampens vibration better than metal or carbon, such as in a passing truck or heavy footed near by assistant. Your hand doesn't stick to wood in the extreme cold. Try that with metal.

I prefer the double tilt head for fine tuning the level of the camera after zeroing out the tripod. It's a faster way to work than tweaking the legs.

The A-100 is a very strong tripod. The A-100-2 is a overkill for 10-8.

 

[JamesG]

I am looking for a used Ries tripod with head. Does anyone have one for sale? I need it for my 8x10. Thanks.

James

 

[naturephoto1]

I am looking for a used Ries tripod with head. Does anyone have one for sale? I need it for my 8x10. Thanks.

James

James,

If they are still available, there is an A100 with head and a J100 without head listed in the APUG classifieds.

Rich

 

[JamesG]

Thanks, I will check it out.

 

[jeroldharter]

I just bought a Berlebach wood tripod and an Acratech ball head for my Toyo 4x5 field camera. Seems to work well. Why spend the extra money (lots) for a Ries?

 

[User Removed]

If your using ULF cameras, the last thing you want is some flimsly ball head. Berleback tripods are nice, but when your getting up to 8x10 and larger...I suggest a Ries.

I use a Ries A-100 with regular tilt head for my 15lbs 8x10 and my 30+lbs 11x14 camera. Never have anything move or slip on me.

Regarding the double tilt head, I don't think its needed. Usually your sideways tilts are very minor, and its easy just to slide one leg out abit more. Also, the more parts to have that move on your tripod, the less sturdy it is.

Regards,

Ryan McIntosh
www.RyanMcIntosh.net

 

[jeroldharter]

I thought the original post pertained to 4x5, not ULF.

 

[naturephoto1]

Jerold,

Original post was for an 8" x 10" camera.

I purchased a Ries H100 for my Linhof Technikardan 45S to use with my Arca
Ball heads (original Monoball and B1). However, I usually use one of my 3 Gitzo Carbon Fiber tripods including my new 1257LVL (leveling tripod) (and my original 1228 used in the past with a Linhof Profi II head) used with a Markins M20 Ball and a Kirk 2.5" QR. However, this set up is more for backpacking. I also use an older Gitzo 1325 (equivalent) with a Gitzo 1321 Leveling base. But these Gitzo's are only used for a 4" x 5". The smaller of the Gitzo tripods supports 17.5 pounds, the 1325 supports 26 pounds. However, even though these have the strength, they are very light and would need to be used with some care with the 8" x 10" cameras.

If you want a Gitzo Carbon Fiber tripod you may also consider the 1548 which weighs only 6.75 pounds and supports 33 pounds. Again, however, care would be needed with the larger cameras (only due to the tripod weight).

Rich