Need Advice: Benro And Induro Tripods & Ballheads

[grt_napa]

I have followed some threads on other sites that suggest that the Benro and Induro represent high value knock-offs. I have never owned a decent tripod and as an amateur still wondering to what extent I will use. The $400 all in cost is appealing but I have also learned over the years that quality and functionality should be the ultimate determinants. Thoughts...suggestions? Thanks, Gordon

 

[Bill Taylor]

I have the Benro C-227n6 , and really like it. I have the Markins M10 head on it. I also have a Benro KS-1 on a lightweight Bogen Carbon Fiber. I also like that set up. I would assume that it doesn't meet the same high quality of a Gitzo , but if you're trying to save a few $$ , it may be worth looking at. It works for me

 

[InitialD]

I have followed some threads on other sites that suggest that the Benro and Induro represent high value knock-offs. I have never owned a decent tripod and as an amateur still wondering to what extent I will use. The $400 all in cost is appealing but I have also learned over the years that quality and functionality should be the ultimate determinants. Thoughts...suggestions? Thanks, Gordon

Check out Feisol for tripods. They do direct orders.

http://www.feisol.com/english/feisolen.htm

 

[1MoreFord]

The consensus I've seen on Benro/Induro tripods is pretty good, but I always remember a thread on Nikonians that included this link below about their ballheads - even if I have to search for it for a while. Ole timers ya know.:wink:

http://www.tomwebsterphoto.com/Essays/Benro/benroks2.htm

 

[liquidtiger720]

Have you considered the velbon/hakuba carbon fiber tripods?

I just got the velbon 630a tripod to go with a markins m10...so far so good.
They offer a lifetime warantee with the tripods...something important since its made of CF.

 

[CliffB]

I would be curious about your experience with the 630. I am in the market for a tripod; and, finances will be keeping me from purchasing what I would really like. The Velbon sems to have good specs for a tripod in its price range. I have not seen a 630; but, I did see a 530 today. The 25 lb. maximum weight rating seemed a bit optimistic; as, the 530 did not feel as sturdy as some other brands with lower ratings. What is the heaviest load that you have tried on the 630? My heaviest possible combo would be a D70 with 70-200 VR and SB800.

 

[yatesd]

I own the Induro A114

I bought the Induro A114 and paired it with a Markins Q3. So far, I am very happy with it as a lightweight setup. My heaviest equipment is the D80,SB-600, and the 70-300VR.

I actually purchased the tripod locally, in Baltimore,MD at www.servicephoto.com I initially visited the dealer to figure out how I was going to justify the 1 series Gitzo to my wife. I was convinced Carbon Fiber was the only way to go, based on all the online articles I have read.

Well, this dealer had a full display of the Gitzo's, Bogen's, and the Induro's. The Induro's did appear to be just like the Gitzo's in almost every way. However, what surprised me was the 1 series aluminum series only weighed a few more ounces, was actually more compact, and cost only about a third of the price of the CF Induros. Construction and included accessories was identical, only difference was CF versus Aluminum. Well, I spent my $119 and I am very happy!

Here are some pictures:

Included bag and strap
http://theyatesfamily.smugmug.com/photos/134974927-L.jpg

Compared to my $20 Slik
http://theyatesfamily.smugmug.com/photos/134975802-L-1.jpg

http://theyatesfamily.smugmug.com/photos/139795601-L.jpg

http://theyatesfamily.smugmug.com/photos/139795817-L.jpg

http://theyatesfamily.smugmug.com/photos/139795870-L.jpg

http://theyatesfamily.smugmug.com/photos/139796003-L.jpg

http://theyatesfamily.smugmug.com/photos/139796342-L.jpg