Tripod for photography/glassing/shootings?

bwp

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Mar 28, 2017
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Missouri
Is there a tripod that can handle a mirrorless camera, binos, and used for shooting off of for hunting situations? Small enough to pack, but still stable for the camera. What tripod and head would you all be looking at?

My current tripod is a artcise cs80c from Amazon. I also have the Va-5 head.
 

robby denning

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I’ve ran my slik 624 with Outdoorsmans pan all the way to 95 mm BTX. It’s a little overloaded, but it can handle it. I’ve shot off it before too, but no specialized head, just gripping it with my hand. It’s my main hunting tripod so definitely small enough to pack. I carry it in a Sitka day pack.
 

Justin Crossley

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Is there a tripod that can handle a mirrorless camera, binos, and used for shooting off of for hunting situations? Small enough to pack, but still stable for the camera. What tripod and head would you all be looking at?

My current tripod is a artcise cs80c from Amazon. I also have the Va-5 head.
Budget for tripod and head? How important is weight?
 

Justin Crossley

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Would that be a noticeable upgrade over my current setup?
The ball head would be way better for shooting because you won't have to level using the legs. I've never used the tripod you have, so I can't say how it compares.
 
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Camera Land

WKR
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The best bet, especially for shooting is the Benro Rhino series FRHN14C with VX20 ball head. The head is designed to hold over 30 lbs which is great when shooting as it can handle the kick of the rifle. Use Promo code promo24 at checkout and save 10%

Here is a link
 

Darren D

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Nov 7, 2023
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Is there a tripod that can handle a mirrorless camera, binos, and used for shooting off of for hunting situations? Small enough to pack, but still stable for the camera. What tripod and head would you all be looking at?

My current tripod is a artcise cs80c from Amazon. I also have the Va-5 head.
As I’ve recommended in another post.

I highly recommend the Slik 600 Pro Carbon Fiber series of tripods. Mount a micro fluid head and you’re looking at around 3.5lbs for both. A micro fluid head with a leveling base adds a few more oz but is worth it if you will shoot from it. For a backpacking tripod to take pictures, glass, and even shoot from if needed, this is the way to go in my opinion.

If you want to stand while glassing, the 633, 634, and 635 are my recommendations in that order. I ended up buying the 633 Pro CF as I found it more stable and quicker to work with. Most go with the 634 as it isn’t as tall when collapsed and in your pack. I have used this setup for the last two years of scouting and hunting. I am very happy with it.

If you will only sit, the Slik 632 is the way to go as it is a full 10oz lighter than the full height models.

Free Modifications:
You can remove the very top of the mounting head on these Slik’s and save yourself another 1.2oz. My 633 Pro CF weighs 30.8oz after this simple mod.
For the micro fluid head you can remove the handle and it is still easy to use without it. It weighs 9.4oz after handle removal.

Both together weighs 40.1oz. It works GREAT for glassing and so lightweight your legs will thank you on long and heavy hikes. And is good for shooting off of but nothing I would take to a NRL competition. But BM for hunting it works just fine.

For the tripod, S&S Archery is a good shop to buy from. Or any other outdoors shop. I like to support those who support our outdoorsman tradition. But Amazon works too. Links below to what I use.

Good luck!

sandsarchery.com

Slik 633 Carbon Fiber Tripod | Hunting | S&S Archery

This will be your new favorite backpack tripod, tall enough to stand behind and very stable! S&S Archery | Free Shipping. Expert Advice. VIP Customer Service.
sandsarchery.com
sandsarchery.com

https://a.co/d/h8vbJvl
 

zfeldma

FNG
Joined
Jan 17, 2025
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12
Check out the manfrotto mt190cxpro4 or the heavier 055cxpro4. Flick locks are easier than twist.
And the manfrotto has 4 angle stops instead of three which really helps with glassing while seated on the ground.
 

rayphoto

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Joined
Nov 17, 2024
Messages
5
I have a Manfrotto befree tripod with the MVH500AH fluid head. Works well with both my mirrorless camera and sigiscope setup. The fluid head is a bit on the heavier side but the sturdiness it provides has been worth it IMO.
 
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