Tripod Companies

Tripods are now available in a variety of designs almost as bewildering as telescopes. One needs to consider a number of factors when choosing one that suits your needs and sometimes you may want to use different tripods in different circumstances.

For example, in the past, I have used a heavy tripod when sea-watching as it will not get moved by the wind so easily. It was very heavy, so not suitable to take on a long walk (some of you may not mind the weight). So, I used a lighter general-purpose tripod that was great in hides and out of the wind. It was a tough, but light, carbon fibre tripod. This could be stabilised by suspending a bag of stones at its centre, but that meant finding some rocks (not easy on the marshes) or carrying them around which rather defeated the object of the exercise.

Things have changed as I either bird very close to my car, or get around reserves using a ‘rollator’ because of my disabilities. There is an added bonus of a bag that attaches to the seat. The good thing about it is that I can fold down the scope and manage to prop it up in the bag without it sticking out too much. This means that I can walk around normally. So, my stable, heavyweight tripod goes everywhere with me. Back when I was travelling the world I had a super small scope on an incredible lightweight tripod which would pack down into a suitcase.

Time to stand on your own three feet! – Least Auklet Aethia pusilla – ©Dubi Shapiro

The action of tripods differs in other respects too, such as the way that the telescope is connected, how the legs expand and are locked, and the tilt and swivel mechanisms when in use. Many birders nowadays want a tripod for their camera, which is also useful for their scope. Most designs are good, but the differences need to be tried out to see what suits you. A lightweight tripod may not be any use if you have a large or heavy scope.

Tripods should be bought in the same way as telescopes – by testing them out. Many retailers have a good stock of different designs and will let you play with them until you find one that suits you. Optics retailers also often hold ‘optics days’ (exhibitions) at reserves around the nation so you can try them out in the field. Remember to have your scope with you, as attaching it is the only way to be sure the tripod is right for your needs.

Having found the one (or more) that you want, do not feel you have to buy it straight away from the person kind enough to show you the options. You may get cheaper deals on line, direct from importers or manufacturers. On the other hand, you may highly value the support of after sales service offered by your local retailer. The choice is yours, take your time because a telescope might be the best in the world but its performance will be marred by a poor supporting tripod.