Need advice on scope tripod (1 Viewer)

Hi,

I'm trying to find a tripod that will be suitable for my Alpen 788 2-60x80 spotting scope. The scope weighs 56 oz. I'm a 5'1 woman and I don't want a heavy or large tripod. But I do want a tripod that is sturdy enough to support my scope and one that is good for birding. I'm just overwhelmed at the choices of tripods and heads and I don't know what to get. Can someone recommend a good tripod for me?

I found this Professional Heavy Duty Video Camcorder Tripod Fluid Drag Head Kits by Fancier WF717A Does this look like a good tripod for my scope? Or, maybe this one?

Thanks,
Tammy

you can't go wrong with Bogen/Manfrotto stuff. For a scope that heavy I would prefer the 3130 / 128RC head to the lighter 700RC2.

since you are short and the scope is angled you can get away with a 190 series tripod, which is a bit lighter than the larger 055 models. For older Bogen versions the equivalent is 3001 series for the 190. You won't need much center column extension so the lighter 190/3001 tripod will still be plenty sturdy if you have a good tripod head.

if you are on a severe budget look on eBay, I see a lot of older Bogen 3001 series tripods all the time there and you can pick up the 3130/128RC head for around $60ish. If you can afford $200, you can usually find a 128RC bundle with a 190 series tripod for the price. If you can afford more and weight savings is imperative, you can step up to a carbon fiber tripod.

Here is an easy bundle that would work great: http://www.eagleoptics.com/tripod-kits/bogen-manfrotto/bogen-manfrotto-128rc-190xb-tripod-kit

EDIT: also if you don't need a quick release plate you can get the older Bogen 3126 head, which just has a screw lock but is very sturdy and has the same smooth fluid action as the 3130/128RC. I see multiple kits of 3001 tripod + 3126 head on eBay right now for under 100 bucks.

Any of the Velbon Sherpa range would be good as the 3-way Pan PH-157Q head is one of the best there is for ease of use and stability.

In-Focus sell a Delta tripod that is a re-badged Velbon with the same head. If you are only likely to birdwatch from hides then consider starting with a hide-clamp rather than a tripod.