Bogen/Manfrotto 3033 Tripod Legs

This is really an outstanding tripod when you need stability about all else. I use it with a StudioBall QR head and the combination is unbeatable but a little too heavy for very long treks (StudioBall weighs 3lbs!). When shooting in windy areas, 3033 walks all over my 3021 Pro for keeping my gear steady so it's made a few trips strapped to my back (whew!) but the results were inarguably worth every bit of extra effort expended schlepping it there. Indoors and for shorter treks, the Bogen 3033/StudioBall combination is an absolutely unbeatable setup for anyone wanting a smooth, precise and drift free adjustment of all but the heaviest camera and lens combinations.

VERY stable, even in windy conditions. Bullet proof construction. Holds a TON of weight without a complaint. Geared shaft lock keeps elevation from wandering (very nifty). Rocker leg locks are easy and convenient and don't pinch your fingers off like the new tab locks on my 3021 Pro can. Built-in spirit level simplifies setup.

A bit heavy for really long hikes. More difficult to adjust than the 3021 Pro style 'pods in irregular terrain.

Ancient Vivitar Tiltall Bogen 3021 Pro (the one I carry around) Bogen 3021S (tiny, nifty but weighs close to the same and the larger version of the 3021)

Never had to use it. Knocked the bottom trim ring off the center column once but the column cover unscrews and I just slipped it back on--3 minute job.

Possibly one of the most stable tripods ever made. This is not something to carry long distances, but is not too heavy to take into the field (just don't park too far away). The center column struts add greatly to the stability when at full extention, however this limits the maximum leg spread and they are not independently adjustable. I have used my 3033 in the field, with the Bogen 3275 mini geared head, supporting very heavy Nikkor tele lens/camera combos. Rock solid in every respect! I would seriously like to see a 3221 Wilderness pod attempt this (there is a considerable amount of flexing in the 3221 when column is exiended). The 3033 I consider the best value in the entire bogen line however, as of 2/1/01 their prices increased 20% due to the Dollar:Euro exchange rate. Still a great bargain. Unless you carry a tripod miles into the woods, the 3033 is the best all-around performer for heavy 35mm and medium format setups! P.S. (there is no catagory for the following item) A great mini-pod to carry along is the Cullmann Mini. Costing around $60US it is the most stable of its genre and is also available as a touring outfit. I'm not a fan of Cullmann in general, but this little bugger blew me away! I use mine on the hood of my S.U.V. shooting quickie landscapes in low light.

Rock Solid,Well Built, Quality Materials.

Heavy.

Over the years, I have owned from Star-D to Gitzo.

Never Needed!

Not a tripod for backpacking, but for a reliable strong steady platform for medium to large cameras indoors or outdoors. I often shoot in the desert with high winds gusting I hang my sheet film holder bag from the bottom of the tripod for extra weight and I have never had the camera tip over yet. I use it with a 3047 Bogen head.

Solid, stable, built like a tank, cross leg bracing.

Heavy, but that is what I need for holding my 8x10 field camera still and tip safe.

A couple Silk tripods that kept braking the leg locks (design fault).

no need so far, and I don't forsee any need in the future (built to last)