Induro Carbon 8x CT113
I recently replaced my trusty Gitzo Mountaineer G1228 MK2 with an Induro Carbon 8x CT113. I've been using the Gitzo for about 10 years with 35mm, medium format, large format 4x5, and most recently DSLRs. It has traveled around the world and many, many miles of backcountry trails and has never let me (or my camera) down. But the twist locks have started to get a little stiff and are the old style which allows the leg to spin and spin... Ug. And the I began to tire of the 4 section tripod setup time - 3 legs, 3 twist locks each... Ug. So I began to look at all those sexy new legs out there. ;-)
Being a hiker, backpacker, traveler, photographer, here were my requirements.
- Light, Light, Light! Carbon fiber, for sure.
- Sturdy and rigid enough for my Canon 5D Mark II and my selection of (smallish) lenses.
- 20-22" folded length - better for strapping to backpacks and fitting in suitcases.
- 3-section non-rotating twist locks - for reasons stated above and I like the twist locks because they tend not to snag on tree branches and brush when hiking.
- Built-in bubble level - convenience.
- Hook at the bottom of the center column - don't use it much, but surely nice to have when the wind is howling or when shooting in deep, powdery snow.
- 50" height without center column extended - expedites setup with DSLR and works great with a 4x5 field camera.
- Padded grips on legs - just a "nice to have" - not really a requirement, I guess.
- Reasonably priced - I don't mind spending on high quality gear, but I'm not going to pay for just a name when other alternatives of equal quality exist.
First impressions of the Induro Carbon 8x CT113 from a discerning photographer:
- Impressive! Very light, sturdy, and operates smoothly - love the non-rotating legs!!
- Bubble level is cool.
- Perfect integration with my RRS BH-40 ball head - nicely balanced.
- Includes nice carrying case, spiked feet and small tool kit.
- Question about durability... Will this tripod last 10 years like the Gitzo? Only time will tell, I guess. I can foresee deterioration of the foam pads on the legs - no big deal - replaceable. And I wonder about the same of the rubber on the twist locks - could be a bigger deal.
Labels: review
posted by Scott @ 1:25 PM
5 Comments
5 Comments:
What?!? A new tripod and not a new bag? ;)
Very cool Scott, not one I had heard of, I'll be anxious to check it out in person! Enjoy!
Scott, Great timing. I was given a tripod as a gift and am considering buying a ballhead for it. Now I'm wondering if a new tripod isn't in order too.
As I try to get started with doing more photography, I do need to be conscious of what I spend and may just try the new ballhead on the old set of legs...
A good ball head can make a big difference in the field. I'm very happy with my RRS BH-40. Previously, used a Kirk BH-3 for about 6 years. It also worked very well, but the RRS has some nice user-friendly conveniences. There are plenty of reviews and forum discussions out there, but drop me a note if you'd like more of my personal opinions. ;-)
Scott are u still satisfied with the induro tripod that u have? i'm 5'6'', would i be able to use this tripod without bending over and without raising the center column?
Hi Winclk,
Yes, I'm still quite pleased with the CT113. I've been using it in some cold pre-dawn temps. The legs and twist locks still work nice and smooth and the padding is a comfort on the hands.
I do think you will still need to bend over slightly to use the legs without extending the center column. I'm 5'11" and this is how I use the tripod most of the time. I don't find it too uncomfortable. I set up the tripod and took some measurements for you. Floor to top plate without the center column extended is 49.5" and with my RRS BH-40 ballhead it is 52.5".
Hope this helps!
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