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| Manfrotto 055XPROB Pro Tripod Legs (Black) | 
 enlarge | Brand: Bogen
Category: Photography
List Price: $194.00
Buy New: $173.95
You Save: $20.05 (10%)
New (8) from $173.95
Avg. Customer Rating:  22 reviews
Media: Electronics
Shipping Weight (lbs): 6.5
Dimensions (in): 26.3 x 5.9 x 5.5
MPN: 055XPROB
Model: 055XPROB
UPC: 719821276890
EAN: 0719821276890
ASIN: B000UMX7FI
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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| Customer Reviews:
| Showing reviews 1-5 of 22 | | NEXT » |
 Solid construction; handles multiple tough environments well; center column a bit flimsey; a touch heavy though September 6, 2008
In terms of the "Cons" related to this product, the #1 is (quite obviously) that it is a heavy tripod and not something you'd want to lug around when camping or such. Of course, if you're looking for a light tripod, then go for the carbon fiber line of products (and shell out 2-3 times as much as this Manfrotto).
The only other "negative" aspect of this tripod is in relation to the center column. I guard my remarks because each and every single tripod I own (even $800+ carbon fiber legs) have a relatively weak center column. Nevertheless, point is that the center column should only be used in conditions that are relatively mild (e.g., wind not blowing, steady, etc). Otherwise, you'll have lousy photos given the slight wobble that occurs.
On the flip-side, the "Pros" relating to the 055XPROB tripod are legion. First and foremost, I was exceptionally pleased to find this tripod operated (e.g., the legs dis not slip and gripped well) flawlessly in the various challenging climates I put it through. That is, I shoot weddings and portraits professionally and many times I'm on the beach with a lot of salty spray coating the legs or perhaps getting sand in/around the locking mechanisms for the legs. Even with these elements that have proven to otherwise cause other inferior products to fail (i.e., after clamping a leg down the leg would nevertheless slip when the slightest bit of weight was applied), this Manfrotto remained solid as a rock. In fact, I have a Manfrotto monopod and in identical shooting conditions as I described above, it's locking mechanisms constantly fail.
In sum though, this is the most solid, reliable, and sturdy tripod for it's price (or 2 x it's price for that matter). Highly recommended.
Solid and reliable September 3, 2008
Cost me $90 in 2006. Not sure if still is a bargain now. It doesn't go to the ground like some, not extra light weight, not extra short when fully folded, plain old aluminum tubes, no level indicator, nothing fancy. But this set is firm and solid and easy to use. My heaviest setup is 40D with rip + Sigma 170-500, the leg has no problem.
solid August 26, 2008
This is a nice solid tripod. It isn't as easy to change the bar to the horizontal position as I like and is a little on the heavy side. But it is rock solid.
An excellent Choice August 5, 2008
2 out of 2 found this review helpful
I purchased these tripod legs along with the 488RC4 ballhead, and I've been very happy with both.
I use this 'pod with a Canon 40D with a battery grip and a variety of lenses. No problems--this tripod holds everything fine, even in horizontal position.
The tripod offers great flexibility--I chose it because of how easy it is to flip the center column horizontal. This is a must-have feature if you're into macro, and very helpful for everyone else too. Makes ultra-low angle shooting a breeze. There's a built in bubble level which becomes redundant if using the 488RC4 head, but if you opt for a head without any levels it could be useful, although I should point out it's way easier to adjust your head to be level than your legs, regardless of brand.
The 055XProB is rated to something like 15.4 lbs--so of course it's a little heavy. I don't get why so many complain about that--if you need this level of support and you don't want the weight, sorry--you just have to fork over the $$ for a carbon fiber.
Quick Summary:
-Great Value
-Ability to flip center column horizontal
-Bubble Level
-Felxible (4 different angle options for each leg, individually adjustable)
-Easy to set up/ break down
-Supports over 15 lbs
It's a great, pro-level tripod that will handle just about any DSLR equipment you can mount on it. Also use it with your medium format gear, and I think it could even handle some large format equipment.
I did tons of research before buying this. There are some other good options out there if you aren't particular about the horizontal column thing, namely the Slik 700 Pro DX. Check it out. It's got rave reviews, and is considerably cheaper. Also there are Induro tripods which have the center column option. I have tried some in a camera store, and they are very sturdy.
Consumer Grade August 1, 2008
for the money, this is an excellent tri-pod. Very sturdy and easy to use. Locking clamps work well and have had no issues to date. I have not used the center column much higher than 3" since I am not over 5'7". Over time, especially with set ups near oceans ect, I am sure the paint will eventually wear down on the legs. I clean them after a sunrise shoot, but everyone knows how sand is. This tri is all I need right now and it cost a whole lot less than the carbon one. I do not mind the weight at all. Just wish it came with a bag!
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