Tripod Help

[Paradactal]

Im trying to get set up with my optics package. Currently I have a set of Vortex Viper 10x42 and am planning on picking up a set of Kaibabs 15x. I was just at 9000ft last weekend and the cheapo tripod that I was using was wobbling all over. SO, Im looking to pick up a pack-able tripod that will support both sets of Binos and a 60mm spotter in the future if I go that route. My price range is around $150. I really dont know what to look for in a tripod and what different features I would like. This tripod would be with me on 2-5 day hunts. Me being 6'3", I would think that would play a factor as well, maybe not. Any recommendations out there?

 

[BrodynIdaho]

At just under 2 lbs I really like my Vortex Summit SS-P with my 10x42 Razors. I am 6'2" so I can't stand straight up to use. No problem since I'm sitting while glassing nearly 100% of the time. Occasionally using a boulder with the tripod collapsed. Also plenty of tripod for a 60mm spotter. I don't think it would be the way to go with an 80mm. Comes in just under your budget at $130.

 

[sneaky]

An 80mm scope is too much for that SS-P, but the Binos and small spotter will be fine. I upgraded mine after running my big spotter on it lol. Velbon makes one just like it, that's what Luke and some others run.

 

[mmccolloch]

I ended up going with the Promaster XC525C carbon fiber tripod for my Vortex Razor 10x42's. I got it as a "refurbished" model, but it was in like new condition and came with the same warranty as a new one for $229 on Amazon. Cameraland was the retailer that was actually selling it via Amazon. I just checked and this deal is still available. $229 is quite a bit above your max price range, but it seems to be a really nice tripod. The twist lock legs are awesome & it seems to be put together extremely well and should work great for binos. Not sure how it would handle a spotter as I don't have one to test.

S&S Archery has some really good video reviews on the Promaster as well as some other tripods that are worth checking out if you haven't seen them already. These videos also show a bunch of features that each tripod has and should help you narrow down your search.

Originally, I was on the fence about trying to find a cheaper tripod or a shorter tripod, but I've been down that road way to many times at this point and I know that inevitably I would just end up buying a nice tripod. I ended up going with a super lightweight tripod that packs down super small and is tall enough to glass standing up. I also plan on getting into photography at some point so having a good tripod will be good for that as well.

 

[twall13]

I believe someone has the aluminum version of the Promaster XC525 for sale for about $100 in the classifieds. It may weigh a couple ounces more than the carbon fiber version but it's a solid tripod that should work for all your requirements. I'm not sure how the ball head would do with a spotter but it should work fine with Binos and could be replaced in the future if desired. At 6'1" I can pretty much use it standing with binos. It would be perfect standing with an angled spotter.

 

[Paradactal]

Thank you for the advice. I went with the Vortex Summit SS-P. That seemed to fit the bill nicely for what I wanted to do and I was able to pick it up along with a few other things at Cablelas as I had a gift card and points to be burned. We shall see how it goes. Now, I just need to get the Kaibabs. Thanks all!!