OBXGuide
Nature Photographer
That's a real shame, Helios. Really sorry that happened. I take it you were carrying the tripod horizontally across your shoulder. Every time I see someone doing that with a big lens I cringe. Scares me to death thinking about it. I never liked doing it myself, but I was using a Manfrotto 055 at the time. When I finally scraped together money to get a used Gitzo 1548 with no center column I realized I could carry the thing vertically if I padded it. When I tried out my idea I found that my collar bone no longer hurt, and having the 500mm/camera/tripod held vertically greatly changed the center of gravity. It all felt MUCH lighter, better balanced, and easier to carry. And I no longer had the fear I'd end up with a disaster such as you suffered. I posted my method on one of my web pages (http://naturephotography.fredhurteau.com/TripodPad-2.htm).
I didn't know about the NSN safety plate. I'll look into that too. Anything to make my 500mm investment safer is worthwhile. And I'll double check the screw too just for good measure.
I didn't know about the NSN safety plate. I'll look into that too. Anything to make my 500mm investment safer is worthwhile. And I'll double check the screw too just for good measure.