Tripod/head advice (1 Viewer)

passerine said:

About to invest in my first scope/tripod combination. Pretty sure it will be the Opticron gs 665 ed angled. The more I read about tripod/head set-ups the more confused I become. As a complete novice I have found it relatively easy to settle on a decent scope - testing at Birdfair will decide if I settle on the Opticron. With scopes the rule of thumb seems to be the greater the cost the better the view - is it the same with tripods? The Velbon 631 EL came out top in the Birdwatching survey, yet the PH157Q head has attracted negative comments across various forums. Would I need to combine a more expensive head with the tripod? How does this kit compare with the new carbon Manfrotto View range? A lot of questions, but I would appreciate any advice that prevents a costly mistake. Don't envisage digiscoping in the near future - just want quality kit to enhance my birding experience.

Jim

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passerine said:

About to invest in my first scope/tripod combination. Pretty sure it will be the Opticron gs 665 ed angled. The more I read about tripod/head set-ups the more confused I become. As a complete novice I have found it relatively easy to settle on a decent scope - testing at Birdfair will decide if I settle on the Opticron. With scopes the rule of thumb seems to be the greater the cost the better the view - is it the same with tripods? The Velbon 631 EL came out top in the Birdwatching survey, yet the PH157Q head has attracted negative comments across various forums. Would I need to combine a more expensive head with the tripod? How does this kit compare with the new carbon Manfrotto View range? A lot of questions, but I would appreciate any advice that prevents a costly mistake. Don't envisage digiscoping in the near future - just want quality kit to enhance my birding experience.

Jim

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JohnnyH said:

Hi Jim,

I've previously owned a Velbon, the In-Focus Delta variant, which at £40 if you buy the scope from them, is superb value & a decent tripod. I've now got a Manfrotto 190v which I have to say is superbly made & with the 700rc2 fluid head wonderful to use in the field, although it was £130. So if you're looking to invest in something to use for some considerable time, I would go with the Manfrotto. The Carbon Fibre versions do not save a massive amount in weight & are double the price. Best idea would be to compare at the Birdfair as Velbon & Manfrotto will be there, & ideally compare them with the scope you intend to buy.

Cheers,

John.

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passerine said:

Bought the 190v with the 700rc2 head at Birdfair - my first tripod. Seems fairly simple to my non - technical eyes. The real test will come when I manage to choose a scope and attatch it!
Jim

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JohnnyH said:

Nice one Jim, good luck with the scope shopping!

Cheers,

John.

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passerine said:

Chose the Nikon ED111 eventually - great scope that offers a fantastic image. The real bonus is the portability of this combo - I don't drive so weight is a real issue. I have no problem carrying this outfit. As for stability, it has served me well on the dozen or so occasions I have used it. The action is smooth on both vertical and horizontal panning. I understand digiscoping might require a little extra ballast - would be interested in hearing the views of anyone who is currently using this combination.
Happy birding
Jim

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