Give me a combination for ~$150

[BigB]

I'd like to get a tripod (ball head and legs) for around $150. Is this possible? I'm flexible on the price, please make some recommendations since I am not well versed in this category. I'd like something sturdy yet portable at the same time. Max height of 60" seems the norm, not too worried about min height, but then again, I like to be portable.

Recommendations onward!

[JDArt]

Originally Posted by BigB

Is this possible?*

Yes. The first serious tripod I ever purchased years ago was a Davis and Sanford model, which I see is still made:

Magnum XL Tripod with Head

http://www.tiffen.com/tripod_page.htm

Few know of or mention Davis and Sanford, which is a shame. Everyone will recommend Bogen or Gitzo. Davis and Sanford make quality pods, however.

This model comes in at just under your price of $150. For this price, you won't find much better, IMO. It has padded legs, is relatively light, and expands to a height much higher than I need. I like the included pan-tilt head, too. It's easy to use. I've used this both for photo and video equipment. It's well made and has decent twist-lock leg releases.

I use Gitzo as well, but these are much more expensive tripods.

[BigB]

I've never heard of them, but that doesn't suprise me.

Thanks for the input, I'll look into them. The weight seems a bit more than I wanted, but it might have to do for the price / quality.

[rpcrowe]

Ebay usually has a great selection of new and used tripods at very good prices. I got a Manfrotto 3001P and Manfrotto Midi-ballHead for less than $100.

For value - all the Manfrotto 30XX series tripods are good 3001, 3011, 3021 (with all their letter variations). It all depends upon your needs and your height (don't get a tripod that you have to extend the center column to comfortably use).

The Manfrotto Midi-Ball head may be overkill but it is very solid. All Manfrotto ball heads I have come accross are very good and are reasonably priced (especially on Ebay)

http://www.bogenimaging.us/

One accessory I strongly recommend is some sort of carrying strap (home-made or store-bought) so when you are not using the tripod, you can sling it over your shoulder.

Also ensure that you get a quick release of some type with your tripod head.