New Trip Reports

I've added several new trip reports in the last week. These include short writings describing the location, a slideshow of images and usually a pre-recorded Google Earth tour. Check them out by clicking on the links below or visiting my Travelogues page...

• Dominguez Canyons Wilderness, Colorado
• Paradise Park - Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
• Slickhorn Canyon - Cedar Mesa, Utah

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.

1. Light, Light, Light! Carbon fiber, for sure.
2. Sturdy and rigid enough for my Canon 5D Mark II and my selection of (smallish) lenses.
3. 20-22" folded length - better for strapping to backpacks and fitting in suitcases.
4. 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.
5. Built-in bubble level - convenience.
6. 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.
7. 50" height without center column extended - expedites setup with DSLR and works great with a 4x5 field camera.
8. Padded grips on legs - just a "nice to have" - not really a requirement, I guess.
9. 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.

During my research I found that there are many more options in the world of carbon fiber tripods than there was 10 or 12 years ago! Of course, some of those products are made well and some... not so much. I read reviews and perused forums and decided on the Induro.

First impressions of the Induro Carbon 8x CT113 from a discerning photographer:

1. Impressive! Very light, sturdy, and operates smoothly - love the non-rotating legs!!
2. Bubble level is cool.
3. Perfect integration with my RRS BH-40 ball head - nicely balanced.
4. Includes nice carrying case, spiked feet and small tool kit.
5. 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.

I'm quite happy with the Induro and I can't wait to hit the trail and put it to work!