Reader's Comments - Index of - Free

Tripods
cement FLOOR -- the tripod was unscathed: no bangs, chips, nothing. No loss,
although now I have to patch and repaint the floor.
4) Costly (for those on a limited budget)? Shop around! I got a great after-
Christmas deal at cameraworld.com (Cameraworld of Oregon) -- 15% off, no
shipping charges and no tax. Deals can be had if you're patient.
In sum: I do not hesitate to recommend this tripod, and thank previous posters for
their helpful advice. --tom
-- Thomas Munch, January 7, 2000
For those agonizing over spending money on a tripod and head, this is for you.
There is little glamor associated with camera support, but it is a major factor in the
quality of your final image. I've been through a lot of lousy tripods because I was
too concerned with getting that sexy new lens which will gaurantee great results...
well, the best lens in the world will produce soft images unless it is FIRMLY
attatched to a SOLID tripod. The hard fact is your tripod is an essential component
of your gear and I highly advise you cough up the money for a good one! Don't get
sucked into thinking a $75 wobbly pan and tilt head will suffice, if you are a
serious photographer then grit your teeth and buy the Arca Swiss B1, put it on a
substantial tripod, lock down the camera, lock up the mirror, and shoot only under
these conditions! Sure the Arca is expensive, but it is a lifetime investment, a joy to
work with, and far superior to any pan head. I know this because I have tried to
scrimp and ended up paying the price in terms of image quality and performance.
PS get a plate from Really Right Stuff-essential. I welcome comments. Check out
my site Perspectivesphoto.com
-- alan hoelzle, January 16, 2000
I've been using the Kirk Ballhead on a Manfrotto 3221 for a couple of years now. I
also have a big Foba Ballo on a Gitzo 320. I ordered the Kirk with a separate quick
release clamp. (I prefer the flexibility.) It has worked flawlessly in all sorts of
conditions. It is strong enough for my Canon system including a 100-400 with a 2x
extender. I've also used it with a Pentax 645 up to the 300mm + 1.4x. This lens has
no collar and exerts considerable force on the tripod & head. I don't own the really
big prime telephoto lenses. It's not as strong as the Foba, but it weighs about half as
much. It is more than adequate for these combinations and perhaps even a bit
heavier. It's a pleasure to use, smooth even tension, locks down and releases easily.
As with the other Kirk products I have used, it seems nearly perfect. I enjoy dealing
with Kirk & company. They are pleasant and responsive and seem to genuinely
http://www.photo.net/equipment/tripods/philg (33 of 53)7/3/2005 2:21:13 AM