Ultralight Tripods, By Matt Cashell

[robby denning]

Thanks Robby! We'll also be at the hunt expo next month in SLC, Mule Deer Days in Rock Springs in March, and a few other shows if you want to come handle some of these products and see what you think.

Get entered in the giveaway!

I'll be to at least on of them. See you there. I wanna see the SWIFT TS

 

[doverpack12]

Thanks Matt. I went through my analysis for a lightweight packing tripod last summer. I couldn’t find much on MTN SS and was between that and Aziak. S and S had good things to say about Aziak so that is the route I went but the MTN SS still intrigues me.

 

[NoDakhunter]

That’s a great compact tripod, but it is kind of in the next class up in weight IMO, especially compared to the Slik and MTN.

@Matt Cashell what would be your recommendation for lightweight tripod and head if doing quite a bit of shooting off of it? I saw the specs for slik at 6.6 load capacity. Disregard? Would a tricer be better for that application?

 

[vvarvnn]

If you are looking for an ultralight tripod, you will want to take the time to read this review. Matt compares three great models to help you decide which to go with. Check it out!

Ultralight Tripods, Tested and Reviewed

Thanks for the heads-up! I’m definitely in the market for a new tripod, so this review sounds like it could be really helpful. Ultralight gear is always a win, but I’m curious to see how these models stack up in terms of stability and durability as well. I’ll be sure to check it out! Appreciate the recommendation.

 

[Matt Cashell]

@Matt Cashell what would be your recommendation for lightweight tripod and head if doing quite a bit of shooting off of it? I saw the specs for slik at 6.6 load capacity. Disregard? Would a tricer be better for that application?

Ultralight tripods like those in this article are useable for shooting. Out of these three, I liked shooting off the Slik the most. It handled my 10 pound rifle fine.

However, I still prefer larger, more stable tripods for shooting, when possible. I have a Velbon that is a little over three pounds I like a lot. Leofoto has some awesome tripods for shooting. Vortex has good shooting tripods. Really Right Stuff if you have the budget.

The Outfoorsmans Carbon Innegra Tripod is really stable for the weight, and the new shorter center post option really makes it nicer for shooting. It is pricey though.

For heads: ball heads that you can get quickly level in the field are the best for shooting, IMO. Lever-adjustable ball heads are really popular. My personal favorite is the MH-35 “handlebar” ball head from Leofoto. It isn’t ultralight, but at 1 lb. It is still light-ish and really field functional for shooting.

 

[WyoHiker]

Thanks for the review, Matt! In your opinion, is it better to invest money in the tripod portion of a setup, or a tripod head? Which leads to more stability when looking through something like an 80mm spotter? Thanks again!

 

[pugwylde]

Somebody get this man an Aziak Background Lite! Good review, but it definitely felt like a miss, not including the Aziak. I'd love to see it side by side with the MTN HNTR, to see which one comes out on top.

 

[Matt Cashell]

Thanks for the review, Matt! In your opinion, is it better to invest money in the tripod portion of a setup, or a tripod head? Which leads to more stability when looking through something like an 80mm spotter? Thanks again!

That is such a tough question to answer!

I really think that matching the capabilities as closely as you can maximizes overall stability. You are only as stable as the weakest link in the system.

 

[WyoHiker]

That is such a tough question to answer!

I really think that matching the capabilities as closely as you can maximizes overall stability. You are only as stable as the weakest link in the system.

That makes sense, thanks for the reply. Looking forward to any more reviews you may do!

 

[WVELK]

If you are looking for an ultralight tripod, you will want to take the time to read this review. Matt compares three great models to help you decide which to go with. Check it out!

Ultralight Tripods, Tested and Reviewed

Matt,

Not all product comparison articles are well written, your article is excellent. For me, I have zero interest in shooting off my tripod. I am looking for light weight and overall height. I agree 100 percent with your comment that “ultralight” for me starts at 32 ounces an under (really 28 and under). So some of the questions about pods pertain to the next weight class up. For me, I am in the market and the one leading the pack for consideration is not in your article, the Aziak. It is lighter than all three in the article and more compact with the exception of the MM. The MTN Hunter is the only one that outshines it with overall height. My question: Are there any other models out there that one should consider?

For me, I will also likely top it with a ball head for easier use with binos.

 

[dustyboots]

Thanks for the the review!! Just picked up an Aziak BC Lite as I was able to get a great deal on a returned item

 

[HogWash]

Nice write-up. I’m considering the 632 Slik tripod, so I appreciate the insights on it.

 

[HogWash]

Thanks for the the review!! Just picked up an Aziak BC Lite as I was able to get a great deal on a returned item

The Aziak BC is also really high on my list. I just wish it had a little more height so it could be comfortably shot off while standing. That’s the only thing giving me pause at the moment.