I have the Leofoto LS-324CEX with leveling base showing up tomorrow, and excited to save weight and have something tall enough I do not have to bend over to look in my view finder !!
Just bought this tripod today pretty excited to get it. It should be here Friday. I was watching your video on it again to see the prep things you do with a new tripod. I have no memory. One thing you mentioned was using grease on your SST Claw Feet to prevent lock up in the aluminum threads. There is something better. It is anti seize compound.Permitex 8143 might be a good choice. It is for marine use and is an aluminum base.
Check this link out for more details. www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods :-) I use that on my kite-foil board, mast, wings and fuselage. It's even better doubled up with teflon tape. I find the Superlube works just great on my tripod legs joints and feet though. It's never let me down in a lot of very hard use. :-)
Good stuff! - Leofoto makes some very high quality equipment... My personal set up is the Leo G4 geared head, the LM-404CL (ultra tall tripod @ 84" with an 80 lb payload capacity) and the Leo GC-404 geared center column. All I can say is I love the equipment and would recommend to anyone who demands durability. Hudson is right - now is the time to get on board with some new equipment.
Hi Nelson, I just got a gitzo monopod and was all excited take the plunge with a full size gitzo tripod but read about one too many gitzo breaking and even worse customer service. I'm actually even more excited now to go Leofoto and wondering about your choice of the 404CL instead of the lighter 324CL Hudson uses. I'm planning on getting the 404CL as well.
@@jasonchow5954 I too am having a tough time deciding between the 324CL and 404CL. I don't hike much, at least nothing longer than 2 miles, so I don't think weight is an issue. Did you get the 404cl? or did you go with something lighter?
I’ve been going back and forth between the Gitzo & Leofoto. Today B&H has the Leofoto on sale for 20% off. So for $455 I pulled the trigger and ordered the Leofoto. I’m looking forward to using it in the coming weeks.
It's amazing how many companies now make good quality professional tripods. I remember just 20 years ago when Gitzo was pretty much it, and then you had Bogen for those of us who couldn't afford the Gitzos like John Shaw used. I saw a couple of the Leofotos at a camera shop this past week and was really impressed. There were Benro's right beside them, but the Leofoto's were definitely in another league. However I'm not sure I'll ever find a tripod more sturdy for its weight than my 11 year old Gitzo 2531 Mountaineer. It has been everywhere with me and still operates like the day I got it.
All that said, only two manufactures made light, series-3 carbon, 79 inch legs until now. Gitzos $900 3543xls that I've carried for years and Promedia, Gear who has a gorgeous one for over $1300 that's a pound heavier. I've had two of gitzo's tall pods in the past 10 years and I hate to say the older one was much better made. :( This Leofoto is exactly what I've been looking for. Highly designed and crafted, a pound lighter than gitzo and less than $600. It's in a league of its own.
I really enjoy your presentations. I have a question about your choice of tripod. Would the LM-364CL be sturdier vs. the LM-324CL (36mm vs 32mm legs). It's shorter (67" vs. 80" high), but is height your main reason for selecting the LM-324CL? I'm looking for a sturdy tripod that can also be used in medium astrophotography as well as general photography. I'm leaning for the LM-364C or CL, but happy to go with the 324CL if it'd be adequate. Finally, I found the LeoPhoto tripod series a bit of a maze. Ascertaining the difference between the Ranger, Summit, Urban, Mountain and Poseidon series is not well presented. I miss the brick and mortar camera store where one can review, touch and discuss gear before spending $$$$. But, they're all gone in our neck of the woods. Your presentations are a big help.
Curious how the Leofoto tripod stacks up to the Gitzo regarding vibration dampening. If you're set up in moving water, or a strong wind for that matter, the constant vibration can often cause motion blur, especially with long exposures. I think this is an often overlooked detail when evaluating tripods.
Thanks, Hudson for the excellent review. The placement of the locking set screws is a game-changing idea IMHO. Which others would adopt it. The tripod looks like an item for this year's Christmas wish list.😎
Nice video, convinced me to get the LM-324 CL and enjoy using it so far and have purchased a few things from your site. I know you switch to silicone tape but was wondering if you ever tried heat shrink tubing? Just throwing that out as another possibility for your tripod kits.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Sorry, I meant just at the ends instead of the silicon. I did wrap mine with the cork wrap and wrapped with the silicon tape, the cork has a really nice feel. Thanks.
Zoics! I think that the Amazon link is supply chain disrupted at the moment. I probably got too many from the same distributor for my custom builds. :-) Here's a B&H link: bhpho.to/39O9kF4. And here is the grease: amzn.to/3u1zxqy
Love this review. Pretty confident I'll be purchasing the LM-324CL after this. Since I've never experienced rock claws before, I've got two questions? Which brand rock claws do you prefer? Do you have any experience in snow with the rock claws?
Thanks for the (as always) excellent video. I am wondering if you have had the opportunity to try the new Leofoto LQ-324C? If so, do you have an opinion regarding this newer "Q" series of their tripods?
All of their newer legs are fabulous, that said I ABHORE center columns. So no. I'm systematic or built in leveling adapter only. I don't want something keeping me off the ground or raising me up where I lose the stability provided by the legs' conjunction.
I got a open box set on the way from Leofoto. I had a 15% off code so couldn’t pass it up. Do you know how I can get a bigger bag that holds the pod with the leveling base and manfrotto 500ah head? 👍🏻
Email me and I'll get a link from my distributor. I had them switch to larger bags for all the ones I sell personally through my store www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods
@@HudsonHenryPhoto you probably compared it with the CP-34 Lii witch has 34mm tubes, if you compare it with the CP-30 Lii that has 30 mm tubes, the FLM is lighter but yes a little shorter and not $300 more 😉
@@stephaneclaveau9736 The price and weight are good on that pod, but it's too short and too light duty for my main rig. It fits between my ultra light sub 4 pound rig about it's height and the big legs here that I prefer whenever possible. Anything in-between is too much of a compromise for me personally. :-)
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Great review Henry, I am seriously thinking about the bike wrap for my legs, and I guess you mentioned here you use gaffers tape to tie up the ends...got to try it. BTW, I ended up going with the FLM CP-30 l4II...I debated back and forth between Leofoto (a big fan of theirs...love my LH-40 ballhead) and the FLM...but It basically came down to height and weight. with FLM, I ended up at 68" vs at best 60" of the Leofoto's in my price point (Sub $400), and the FLM was also about a 1lb lighter. Yes, it was about $100 more than the Leofoto....and I took some pause with that, but ultimately I wanted the lightest possible sturdy rig. With just 2 of the 3 leg extension open, ballhead on, and the camera attached, It's just shy of eye level but super sturdy! Either way, I really don't think you can go wrong with Leofoto's products. Very well engineered and great materials and fit and finish. I was really impressed when I received my LH40, and could definitely see the connection (homage or copy) of the RRS ballheads, at a fraction of the cost.
So unfortunately my setup (exactly what you recommend here with the Leveling Adapter and the Fluid Head) that my wife ordered me for Christmas 2021 will not fit down in the storage bag assembled. I wonder if Leofoto changed the bag recently.
I have them use the larger bags still on the ones I sell trough my store direct now. Email me at hi@hudsonhenry.com and I'll see if I can't get you fixed up through the US distributor. :)
When you put the leveling base on the tripod it really increases the height of the head. Wouldn't this increase instability by changing the center of gravity? When I looked at this rig, the actual base seemed quite small as well so less of a base? Finally do you discuss somewhere how the 500AH with the leveling base handles the heavier telephoto lenses? I'm a bird photographer and am always conscious of the top-heaviness, which it seems the leveling base just increases on top of the tripod's small base. Thanks for a reply. I just discovered you channel and just subscribed. Well done videos. Over my head right now with all the technical stuff but that's why I can watch them again!
Hey Breck. With a 400 2.8 and pro dslr, I'd prefer the gimbal I have, but the 500AH works fine, you just need to lock it to avoid flop with so much weight if it started to tip out of balance. With my 500PF on a D500 or Z camera + FTZ it's great and the fluid slows any drop to very slow motion. It handles great. You can see all that demonstrated in this video... ruclips.net/video/qVZLDfq-mEo/видео.html No the adapter does provide a lift, but it's a rock solid lift. Not like a center column at all. I notice no drop in stability from my days with the half ball. Just a lot more versatility getting low and more ease of leveling with both hands on the head and my pinky finger to lock the leveler enough to drop my hands to give it that extra snugging. I'll certainly not go back. :)
funny this video just came out and just this morning i ordered the Leofoto LM-364C and the LB-75S. i watched your first video on the one with the leveling base but i ended up opting for the 364c instead. So after watching this i am more excited for the new to show up. Thanks
Or you want to shoot over some overgrown hedge standing on a bench, or on a steep hillside with a leg extended downslope, or on the edge of a tide pool or stream with a leg in the water. The all too practical list goes on and on. Once you've had the capability, you don't want to be without it. You feel... limited
Tons of informationI in one video. Thank you so much for sharing this. I live in Australia and when I try to buy this via your link it asks me to use Amezon Australia link... will that help you if i buy Amezon Australia?
Here's the latest on my tripods any questions you have should be answered easily here or email if you want more details Neil: www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods
The leg angle has never been the slightest bit noticeable in practice to me. I've shot my 500 in 40mph winds with either tripod and a 30 pound sandbag in the stone shelf. Can't imagine needing more. The gitzo sadly starts falling apart very quickly these days. They just aren't built like they used to. The Leo is machined to a much better standard. Much better made, more innovative, lighter and cheaper.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Thank you for your quick and in-depth reply! I have a Gitzo traveler and mini and several Gitzo bags and find them excellent albeit expensive indeed! One thing that attracts me in the Gitzo Systematic is the ability to screw on accessories through a Manfrotto Mini Friction Magic Arm. Litra lights can be screwed on to do macro photography etc. I'll have a decent look at the Leo though! Thank you! Bart
The Leo's have those threaded ports too. Their locking system is much more refined that gitzo's on the systematic top. The spider is cnc milled instead of cast and the leg locks are much more durable than gitzo's new rubber wrapped ones which degrade in sun and saltwater. Mine as well as many of my followers failed within one year. The kicker is leo is lighter, half the price, comes with a nice bag, spikes, the bowl and plate plus a tool kit. Ouch. I carried gitzo for two decades... But not now.
hmmmm, I just shot with mine in 40mph sustained winds with a 30 pound sandbag in the stone bag and shot steady video and stills at 200 and 500mm. No issue. All carbon flexes a touch. I sure haven't had any issues...
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Thank you for responding, Hudson. With the utmost respect for you, I must tell you that it is not the carbon alone that is flexing. You and I work differently, and that may be the reason you have not noticed what I'm talking about. You balance all your lenses with that video fluid head you use on your tripod, and a rail to locate the center of moment so that your rig is basically floating without putting stress on the central head mounting plate of the tripod. I use an Acratech GXP ballhead to hold a Fuji GFX 50R on a Kirk L-bracket with zoom lenses hanging off it. My ballhead is attached directly to the central flat plate of the tripod. Having spent 30 years using an 8x10 on a Gitzo Studex 360 with a Rational 3 head on it, I recently found out that it too flexed when I hung this Fuji on it. The centrally mounted 8x10 was hiding that tendency from me all those years. When I first noticed this phenomenon, I interpreted it as positional drift in the Acratech ballhead. It wasn't landing where I put it. I protested loudly to Scott at Acratech about his GXP ballhead. He suggested that it could be the tripod. I set the camera up on the tripod and pushed on it. It moved the central aluminum structure just enough to act like the ballhead was not holding. When I really studied what the motion was it became obvious that it was the central plate and ring structure of the tripod that was flexing, along with some flex in the carbon. I abjectly apologized to Scott. He said he had seen this with many tripods. It led me to do the same test on my heavy Gitzo. It did the same thing. I had just never noticed it before. I would invite you to hang your 500 from the camera body's base tripod hole on a regular head and just see what happens when you push on it. I've learned to compensate for the movement by not using the lens to position the shot, but instead using a grip only on the camera body. I think you've just not seen it because of your very balanced rig (which is a thing of beauty, by the way). I am fully prepared to eat crow, and would love to be proved wrong. I would refer you to Scott at Acratech for further information about our conversation. I love your videos. Please do not take this response as any sort of condemnation of your work. I have the greatest respect for your expertise. I'm just contributing my experience of this product. Thanks.
@@billmarsh7760 What a great detailed response. Yes, that's why my friend John Eastcott uses the big Gitzo series 5 systemic legs. Light weight and rigidity hit that balance beam from time to time with trade offs. I'll have to test this a bit. I adore and respect Scott at Acratech. They are one of my absolute favorite brands to work with. :-)
Nice review. Leofoto has a nice website with detailed product info. How about stability? Has Leofoto the same leg diameter with gitzo? I wonder where the weight savings come from. I decided to for RRS 24L which gets to 68 inches long (not 78) but is about the same weight with the Leo if you add the leveling base. I am really happy with it. It is double the price though.
It's identical diameter I think. Absolutely as stable. RRS makes quality gear, but I avoid them as much as possible for a number of good reasons. The people at Kirk and Acratech are such nice folks...
Hudson Henry Photography I got your Panorama Class last week. Very happy with the content and I recommend it to others as well. There is something about a panorama with a normal (tilt-shift?) lens that draws you into the picture. I really like architectural panoramas.
Hi Hudson, Do you know if the Leofoto LB-75S leveling base will fit my Induro GIT 304 Grand Series Carbon Fiber tripod that has the MVH500 fluid head on it now? I would like to get rid of the handle underneath that you level it with so I can get lower to the ground. Bruce Philipps
Enjoyed your video but a link to an amazon URI that says the product is unavailable and it is not know when or if the product will be available, really isn't much use.
They sold out of a large stock in two days after this went live! My contact says there are lots more on route and will be in stock very soon. Check back late next week and it should be there. This set of legs is so new, that this was the fist US batch sold.
Great and thorough review... thank you. Just curious as to your opinion on the Leofoto vs the Robus you reviewed so highly? Ready to purchase a new tripod and I'm curious as to which one you would lean towards?
Hi Hudson, Nice video. Have a look at the Leofoto BV10 FLUID HEAD. I've been using it for about a year and it's replaced both my Manfrotto fluid heads (500AH and 502AH), even for telephoto work out to 840mm (canon 300 2.8 with 2x and 1.4x kenko stacked). It's lighter and smaller than the 500AH, is really smooth and beautifully built. It is more expensive than the 500AH, but I really find it worth the extra money.
I have the same question. I've also been using the BV10 for about a year and love it. The main features I like over the Manfrotto are the smaller size and the fact that it's arca-swiss compatible without any adapter. The only downside is that the BV10 fluid is a bit sluggish in temps below freezing. I never used my Manfrotto in those temps so I don't know if that one would be any better.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto worth a try I think. I liked the 500ah a lot, but the BV10's small size and weight appealed to me. Maybe leofoto would send you one for evaluation? Thanks for replying Hudson.
Great review. Thanks Hudson. I really like the timeline scrubbing feature. That’s awesome. Wondering about stiffness and vibration control relative the Gitzo’s. It occurs to me that some trade off needs to be made relative to the price and weight benefits. Any thoughts on this?
No, it's just as nice a build quality and carbon and exactly the same specs for tubes and diameter. Just as damp and stiff. Better barrels. The weight savings is in the crazy machining up top. It's all milled CNC work whereas the Gitzo is cast and seems clunky by comparison.
Great review. I have had excellent support from leofoto, and their factory store sells excellent refurbished items. I have a big gitzo and a leofoto 60 inch. Love the leofoto and their leveling adapter. One benefit of the manfrotto is the handle under the half ball allows easy adjustments of the leveling with a heavy lens, but otherwise the leofoto is better in every respect. The Gitzo is also great, so no complaints on either. Salens makes great rock claws also and may be the same as the leofoto
Price difference is mainly Gitzo brand name + made in Italy vs Chinese company made in china. That doesn't mean the Chinese one is any worse though. For me as a Finnish person, I prefer a European company over American or Chinese ones. Leofoto is also kind of hard to source here as they have few stores selling them in Europe and none in Finland. 3 Legged Thing makes good stuff cheaper than Gitzo and comes from the UK but they don't have a 2 meters tall model..
Aha, found it! Thank you. Sorry to ask more questions 😛 How do you carry your LM-324CL set up on hikes? Including the Leofoto leveler and Manfrotto 502AH it seems pretty tall packed down? Still trying to decide between thi system and the other smaller one you mention. For the 502AH what plates should I use for the Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 and Nikkor 200-500mm f5.6? Thank you so much again 😃
You'll love the 500ah and tall legs more. I use the side compression straps on my Fstop bags. Keep the feet near the bottom of the bag and the head can be up behind your head. It's not heavy or awkward for me at all. If you want to, with a twist and pull off the safety catch you can pop the leveling adapter out of the legs with the head and toss it in the bag. I generally don't though. It's really not an issue. As a backpacker I've strapped stuff like that outside my bag for decades. (fishing poles, tent parts, map tubes, skis). Kirk makes a bridge for that head too. That or mount a manfrotto plate right to the foot and connect direct.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto thank you again! That helps me :) Can the 502 head be attached to the LS-284CEX too? So have one head for both legs? I currently have a manfrotto Beefree GT XPro Carbon tripod with a cheap Arca Swiss adapter on top for my L Brackets (D850/D500) - so going to these two Leofroto tripods with the Leofroto leveler and 502AH, if I can source the Kirk Bridge in the UK that will give me Arca Swiss :) The Kirk Universal multi use lens plate 4.50 with 2 screws will fit both 70-200 (2 hole) and 200-500 (one hole) collars? Your channel is amazing - just starting to view them. Love the one about digitizing film Might try one day to hop on a Zoom though the time difference might be an issue haha Thank you again!
Again the 502 will, but it's just so big, heavy, awkward and unessesary compared to the 500. I really steer people away from it. 500. 500. It's plenty for my big lenses with pro dslr bodies even. Thanks so much.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Hi. Ok, I reviewed your Videos again and today can announce I have opted for the following 500AH Pro Fluid Head Leofoto LS-324CEX Tripod & Levelling Base Universal Quick Release Adapter with Quick Release Clamp-use to convert to arca-swiss 2 Manfrotto 504PLONG Long Quick Release Mounting Plates Set of 3 Leofoto Tripod Long Spikes I think that does it? :) Thank you so much. I will let you know how I get on
Hey Hudson, Love the review. I could really use the weight reduction but I am thinking it best for me to lose some personal weight first!! 🙂 I have a question regarding the bag. When I bought the Robus it had a nice bag but the zipper didn’t hold up. How is the zipper on the Leofoto bag? And I have an f-stop bag for my tripods that works great. You would still use it for hiking, correct? I do need to put some padding or protection at the bottom of my f-stop so the rock claws don’t rip through eventually. I used to use the rock bag but now that I mount it higher, I need to pull it off to wrap around the feet. If I find a simple solution, I will let you know. Maybe others have something they use at the bottom of their bags to stop the rock claws or points from damaging them? Dave
I can't speak to the durability of the bag yet, but I'd use it more as a travel or around town bag. I wouldn't take it deep in the field. Yes, you need to protect that bad ass roll-top F-stop bag from the claws. How about a Think Tank Red Whip like I hand out at the workshops and a large enough square of light fabric around them?
Important question about taping the legs. When it comes time to cleaning my tripod after a day at the beach, I soak it in a tub with fresh water. My concern is water being trapped underneath the tape. Otherwise, I'd love to give it a try. Thoughts?
It'll dry just like it does on the road bicycles' handlebars it's designed for. If you're soaking your legs, be certain to grease the hick out of the leg lock threads. Your larger concern should be water between the legs or way up in the carbon metal interface where the spider meets the legs. I don't open & collapse mine after saltwater use until I rinse the exposed sections and let them dry. Every now and then I disassemble, clean all the parts and regrrase the threads when reassembling. I really can't advocate "soaking" :)
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Hm. I think the reason why I soak the tripod is because when I go from the beach back to the car, and from the car back to the house, the tripod at some point will rest on its side and any salt water that gets in will have traveled up the legs. I guess a solution to that would be to take the feet off once I get back to the car. And spritz the outside with freshwater from a squeeze bottle I keep in the car. I noticed you use a lot of grease - you mentioned it helps keep water out. I'll try that. Really appreciate your perspective on all things photography. Different than a lot of the others online. :-)
@@b.a.p.4718 Yeah, totally. Use a waterbottle when you come out of the saltwater, or a stream and dry the legs with a cloth before you get back in. What you don't want to do is open the joint with saltwater on the leg and retract it up into the bigger legs. Think of those twist locks with grease as a barrier. Don't shrink it till you rinse and dry it. :-)
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Okay, that makes sense. :-) Do you have any tips or tricks for drying the inside of the legs? At home I've used long strips of cloth and a wooden dowel after a deep clean to shove inside the legs to dry them. I keep ahold of the towel end so I can pull it back out. But I'm thinking maybe a cotton swab that like a clarinetist would use to dry their instrument might work better or be easier to quickly deploy and stow away in the car.
@@b.a.p.4718 You won't need to if you don't open and collapse the exposed parts till you rinse and dry it. If you open it, don't close it till you rinse it at the car or in a stream. If for some reason you have to close it with saltwater on the legs (like to rock climb up something with it on your backpack instead of open long on your shoulder, then disassemble the whole thing and clean it with a bottle brush (from a brewery supply) and rags before re-greasing and reassembling. As long as you don't run wet sections up inside others and the threads are greased, you're fine.
No it's their Panorama head, but it's very similar and yes, worth every penny. That is if you can't afford the extra pound weight of my preferred, cheaper fluid head. :)
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Yes. That head is a bit heavier and probably a bit stronger. I opted for the basic "long lens" version to save weight and hope that it is still strong enough. It is also pretty compact when the top part is folded over for carry in a bag. I just got it direct from Acratech a week ago so I havent had a chance to test it out, but anything to reduce the weight of my tripod bag is good. :)
I bought the Robus 5570 based on your review a while back, I'm a little disappointed to come back to your videos to see the you have completely dropped it, just wasn't the tripod for you? I do like the lightweight Leofoto though.
The Robus is really well made. It was the first fabulous alternative to my big Gitzo at a reasonable price, but a pound heavier. I reached out to Robus with thoughts for improvements a few years ago (back when I promoted it)... Crickets. Never a word back. Then fast forward 18 months, Leofoto's US distributor approached me. Their quality blew me away. I told them what was missing in the market and what I dreamed about having ... 3 weeks later I had a dreamy prototype in my hands. Taller than the Gitzo, 1/2 the price, beautifully machined, more innovative, 1 pound lighter, 2 pounds lighter and a lot taller than the Robus... Sold. There's nothing wrong with the Robus, and at the time... It was the best alternative to the Gitzo. Sadly... they're both better made than the new Gitzo stuff. After decades of carrying them, I'm not a fan of the current quality from Gitzo. :(
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Im really happy you replied I really respect your opinion, I can see what happened behind the scenes now and makes perfect sense to switch!
Great stuff. I love the idea of bicycle tape on the legs! Never even thought of that. Can you tell me how much tape it took? Most are 2000mm long and come in pairs. Would that be enough? Thanks in advance! Waiting for the legs to come back in stock...
Fantastic information Hudson! A larger tripod is definitely a huge plus. I currently own a Sirui R-4214X tripod for several years and am quite happy with it. Very sturdy and relatively light weight (for such a sturdy tripod). I might buy the Leofoto tripod later but my most urgent need is a head. I have a Manfrotto fluid head on order. But I have a question about the Leofoto leveling base. Do you think it will fit my Sirui tripod?
I haven't personally tried a Sirui Systematic set like that, but it should. It would fit Robus, Gitzo, Manfrotto, Induro, Benro or any of the other 75mm systematic legs I've owned. I can't imagine they'd go off spec with theirs. :-)
Hey Hudson,... great video man as always. Tried using your link to the Leofoto legs. Amazon responded the LM-324CL was "Currently Unavailable. We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock". Saw the LM-324CEX model, which is nice with the 'Built-In' leveling,... just a little short. You got an updated link? Really want to support you. Thanks.
Hey G'mornin' Hudson! That's great news to hear. After reading your response yesterday, I took a cruse through Leofoto's website. While there, I noticed the LM-364CL, which looked to be a stouter but shorter sibling. Still, at only 67", I figure I'll be looking at 75" to 76" at the eyepiece after gluing on the LB-75S leveler, fluid head w/Arca adapters, and the camera body. That's enough to get me up on a step stool. LOL!
I commend you and respect you for not trying to push the most expensive equipment as being the best choice. I have made purchases based on your suggestions and recommendations. I use FLM tripods and find the quality and features among the best available for less cost. Thanks for sharing
Sure. It will add a little weight and an extra screw connection, but you can mount it to the drop in flat plate instead of using the direct drop in leveling adapter version. Absolutely.
PMG is spectacularly made and bombproof. No doubt. However the 424L equivalient is 3 inches shorter much more than twice as expensive (1350 dollars compared to 570 dollars) and two pounds heavier. I'll take the Leofoto with enough left over for a bunch of other gear and an extra lens in the bag for the same weight. Trust me these legs are really nice.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto sounds good I learned something new as I search for a new tripod. Will check out Leofoto now. I think I plan on a really right stuff head.. Does that make sense like the BH-40 ?thanks
I'd really urge you to check out the fluid head instead. I have 100s of converts and zero complaints so far. If you must stick with a ballhead, look at the acratech gxp. There's no better ball made and they're also really nice people. I avoid RRS whenever I can.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto For sake of a fluid head that is compact not heavy for travel, and my gear would total maybe 12 pounds at most with the average being 5-6 pounds. Which fluid head ?
30 days at both Amazon and B&H... :) that said the gitzo is a fantastic set of legs that won't let you down. I've used mine for years and years. If the rubber barrel wraps break down, use some gaffe tape to hold you over and contact them for free new ones. This pod hasn't existed till last week, so I couldn't recommend it before...
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Yeah, you never know what's round the corner. Just bad timing as the new setup does look better, and whilst I'm impressed by the Gitzo's, they are heavy and definitely look designed for video.
They're very similar in all regards. The only other legs that come close are the $1350 Promedia Gear legs that are a pound heavier than the gitzo's. Robus is priced right, but much shorter and also a pound heavier than your gitzo. Until this new set from Leofoto, gitzo was the only game in town in my book. :) They still rock.
Email me. I'll put you in touch with the rep. I had one other person encounter this too. I think it was a mistake with a few. They swapped it for him. Email me at hi@hudsonhenry.com and I'll help you sort it out.
I switch and I like it. It is so easy to set up and level. Also it is much faster to compose. I did not believe it it is true. I switch because I needed a larger tripod and the price was right. Very nice tripod. I do have one con for this system. I am not keen on the location of horizontal knob just behind the fluid head. When shooting something up and the fluid head is tipped it is hard to grasp the knob to tighten of free the horizontal movement. Other than that it a great system.
Much thanks for the whole review, all the practical advice and also for the link to the cork wrap - I had a hell of a time on Amazon finding non-crappy cork wrap... What is the price difference between the CEX version and the one you got with the raised leveling unit...?
You've convinced me on Leofoto, still not 100% sure about getting such a tall tripod and still debating on thicker legs. Reviewing the Leofoto site to gather as much info as possible to compare the summit series, I saw there is now a Leofoto LMP-324CL (Poseidon Series) which is supposed to be more water and sand proof. I live in Costa Rica and the humidity is high all year long so corrosion-proofing is a must. I currently own 2 Manfrotto tripods and both have screws showing signs of corrosion. Hudson, do you have any thoughts on the Poseidon series, is the Leofoto LMP-324CL the exact same tripod as the LM-324CL except with added anti-corrosion parts?
You wiped out stock of the tripod legs on Amazon with this video. I clicked the link only 9 days after you posted the video. Amazon says Currently Unavailable. LOL
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Absolutely! I've already put mine through it's paces and have been extremely impressed. the 40mm legs are insanely sturdy/stout. Plus like you said, they have stock. I had an order from Colorado tripod Company for over 8 months with no ship date in site. FLM has been back order for nearly as long for the major retailers as well.
China like so many things these days. I'll tell you this though. These are some insanely well made legs from the carbon weave to the top grade CNC milling. The gitzo may be made in Italy, but the cast work on my 3543XLS does not stand well in comparison.
Sorry but I disagree. Its nice that Leofoto has some more affordable stuff but the Gitzo has definitely higher quality materials and is also better machined IMO. The Gitzo also stands wider thats why the Leofoto is smaller when packed but higher when standing. Thats somehow exchanging stability for nicer measurements on the paper. To the locking of the quick release plate: I actually prefer how gitzo designed it. Look how much the thumb screw on the leofoto points outwards. Image having your tripod strapped on the back of your heavy backpack and then putting your backpack onto the ground. You could accidentally have all the weight of your gear on this small screw since it points so far outwards and bending it this way. This cant happen on gitzo since it is tangential with the tripod. Your comparison is also somehow unfair because I have the same Leofoto levelingbase (which I do like) but I use it on my Gitzo (the quick release plates actually fit each other) as you could do it as well. That would allow the Gitzo to get down low and to be a tiny bit higher. However I do have one Gitzo and three Leofoto tripods. They are good but Gitzo is still top of the line IMO.
My last gitzo started falling apart after 18 months of my typical use. Literally had the carbon legs separating from the poorly made cast spyder as well as the leg locks rubber coming off. The Leo with its cnc milled spyder is still rocking now 3 years on. Like new still. I used gitzo exclusively for 20 years. They ceased being that company about 6 years ago sadly. Zero innovation, cast parts vs milled. Heavy and poor quality. Do yourself a favor and mount your legs on the side, not the back. Id never carry all that weight cantilevered out. The stance issue is completely ameliorated by a 20 dollar stone bag with a hook. I'm custom building systems now and have sold hundreds of them. Www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods Not a single complaint yet. Only... "Holy cow. This is the best setup I've ever used' comments. :) If you really want to spend twice as much on much lower quality it's 100 percent your right. Differences of opinion make the world spin in a more fun way.
But it’s regular leg angle is simply too steep. It’s a dealbreaker. If you have a direct contact with Leofoto then please tell them they need to make a series with a wider standard angle. I’d like a long version of an LS-323, that has wider standard angles, for hiking with big lenses. The tripod review sites have been talking about these bad angles for years.
I can only assume you're referencing the tripods they made a few years ago. These new legs I'm reviewing are nothing at all like what Leofoto made a few years ago. The quality, fit and finish are shockingly top notch and the design choices in these latest models are actually better than any other tripod brand I've used.
@@hautehussey Nope. Just set them up side by side to check my sanity. The Gitzo is slightly steeper angled. Just barely. The Leofoto has a significantly smaller top cap though, so it starts narrower. Both idetically set for me at eye level the Gitzo is 38.5 inches foot to foot. The Leofoto is 38. At full extension the Leofoto's shallower angle makes up for it and it's 62.6" to the Gitzo's 62 inches. Pretty much close enough to call equivalent. Just measured.
Don't get me wrong. The Gitzos are fabulous and they've been my go to legs for over 10 years,, and those legs won't fail you. If the rubber rings split contact their support and they will send new barrels to you for free. You will never regret that big pod and if you want to upgrade to the leveler I reccomend here it will go right on top of the 3543 too. Unlike you and me some folks just can't afford the Gitzos. I've been wishing I could help Gitzo or another company design an even better tall pod and get the price down a bit. ProMedia gear was long the only other game in town and it was even more expensive. I reached out to several other companies and got the cold shoulder. The connection with Leofoto this year was fortuitous. Who would think that I would request a design from the US distributor and have something engineered even better than I dreamed land on my door less than 3 months later. :-) It simply didn't exist till right now.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto - Thanks for the response, Hudson. Sorry about giving you a hard time. I hate it when members are too harsh. I love the setup you recommended and will continue taking your advice on equipment. I've purchased 4 medium priced tripods in the past and never really liked any of them. My new fluid head tripod is the best tripod I've ever seen. My next purchase will be that lightweight travel tripod since the Gitzo is a bit too big to take on flights.
Oh Henry. I just built my Robus RC-5570 setup with all your recommended specs and Kirk offerings last week. It’s within the 30 day return window. Getting 9 inches more height and 1 pound lighter. Would you recommend this setup over the Robus?
I would never use a lighter tripod than the ultralight setup I have. It's rock solid and locks a heavy lens setup down like a vice with no center column to reduce stability. I've never before carried a tripod under 7 pounds, so sub 4 is ultralight in my book. :)
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Great review. Based on your first review of Leofoto I bought the Ranger LS-284CEX and couldn't be happier.
I have the Leofoto LS-324CEX with leveling base showing up tomorrow, and excited to save weight and have something tall enough I do not have to bend over to look in my view finder !!
Thanks. Particularly appreciate the maintenance tips!
My Gitzo is twenty years old. Still works great.
That's when they made them well. I loved mine from that vintage too. You'd be very saddened to try the new ones.
Just bought this tripod today pretty excited to get it. It should be here Friday. I was watching your video on it again to see the prep things you do with a new tripod. I have no memory. One thing you mentioned was using grease on your SST Claw Feet to prevent lock up in the aluminum threads. There is something better. It is anti seize compound.Permitex 8143 might be a good choice. It is for marine use and is an aluminum base.
Check this link out for more details. www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods :-) I use that on my kite-foil board, mast, wings and fuselage. It's even better doubled up with teflon tape. I find the Superlube works just great on my tripod legs joints and feet though. It's never let me down in a lot of very hard use. :-)
Good stuff! - Leofoto makes some very high quality equipment... My personal set up is the Leo G4 geared head, the LM-404CL (ultra tall tripod @ 84" with an 80 lb payload capacity) and the Leo GC-404 geared center column. All I can say is I love the equipment and would recommend to anyone who demands durability. Hudson is right - now is the time to get on board with some new equipment.
Hi Nelson, I just got a gitzo monopod and was all excited take the plunge with a full size gitzo tripod but read about one too many gitzo breaking and even worse customer service. I'm actually even more excited now to go Leofoto and wondering about your choice of the 404CL instead of the lighter 324CL Hudson uses. I'm planning on getting the 404CL as well.
@@jasonchow5954 I too am having a tough time deciding between the 324CL and 404CL. I don't hike much, at least nothing longer than 2 miles, so I don't think weight is an issue. Did you get the 404cl? or did you go with something lighter?
I’ve been going back and forth between the Gitzo & Leofoto. Today B&H has the Leofoto on sale for 20% off. So for $455 I pulled the trigger and ordered the Leofoto. I’m looking forward to using it in the coming weeks.
These days, the leofoto is much higher quality and more innovative and I carried gitzo exclusively for nearly two decades before switching.
I’m debating between these two, how do you like yours Dante?
It's amazing how many companies now make good quality professional tripods. I remember just 20 years ago when Gitzo was pretty much it, and then you had Bogen for those of us who couldn't afford the Gitzos like John Shaw used. I saw a couple of the Leofotos at a camera shop this past week and was really impressed. There were Benro's right beside them, but the Leofoto's were definitely in another league. However I'm not sure I'll ever find a tripod more sturdy for its weight than my 11 year old Gitzo 2531 Mountaineer. It has been everywhere with me and still operates like the day I got it.
All that said, only two manufactures made light, series-3 carbon, 79 inch legs until now. Gitzos $900 3543xls that I've carried for years and Promedia, Gear who has a gorgeous one for over $1300 that's a pound heavier. I've had two of gitzo's tall pods in the past 10 years and I hate to say the older one was much better made. :( This Leofoto is exactly what I've been looking for. Highly designed and crafted, a pound lighter than gitzo and less than $600. It's in a league of its own.
Hi Hudson, nice episode of ATS. I am using for about 2 month the LM-324C, a very nice tripod, not so tall but anyway a great tripod. All the best..
I really enjoy your presentations. I have a question about your choice of tripod.
Would the LM-364CL be sturdier vs. the LM-324CL (36mm vs 32mm legs). It's shorter (67" vs. 80" high), but is height your main reason for selecting the LM-324CL? I'm looking for a sturdy tripod that can also be used in medium astrophotography as well as general photography. I'm leaning for the LM-364C or CL, but happy to go with the 324CL if it'd be adequate.
Finally, I found the LeoPhoto tripod series a bit of a maze. Ascertaining the difference between the Ranger, Summit, Urban, Mountain and Poseidon series is not well presented.
I miss the brick and mortar camera store where one can review, touch and discuss gear before spending $$$$. But, they're all gone in our neck of the woods. Your presentations are a big help.
Great video, great products.
Curious how the Leofoto tripod stacks up to the Gitzo regarding vibration dampening. If you're set up in moving water, or a strong wind for that matter, the constant vibration can often cause motion blur, especially with long exposures. I think this is an often overlooked detail when evaluating tripods.
Thanks, Hudson for the excellent review. The placement of the locking set screws is a game-changing idea IMHO. Which others would adopt it. The tripod looks like an item for this year's Christmas wish list.😎
I'm so excited by this design.
Nice video, convinced me to get the LM-324 CL and enjoy using it so far and have purchased a few things from your site. I know you switch to silicone tape but was wondering if you ever tried heat shrink tubing? Just throwing that out as another possibility for your tripod kits.
Ive used it in other applicatons. I still much prefer the cork wrap. The silicone just adds a nicer finish.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Sorry, I meant just at the ends instead of the silicon. I did wrap mine with the cork wrap and wrapped with the silicon tape, the cork has a really nice feel. Thanks.
I just hope your Gitzo systematic tripod doesn't have the problems with the leg locks mine did...
It has, and they sent replacements for free, but still... It shouldn't.
@Brandon Michael Hinsley this is late but I really like my Robus.
Hudson, you have a link for the grease squirt thing and your rock claw link on amazon is no longer active...thanks
Zoics! I think that the Amazon link is supply chain disrupted at the moment. I probably got too many from the same distributor for my custom builds. :-) Here's a B&H link: bhpho.to/39O9kF4. And here is the grease: amzn.to/3u1zxqy
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Link for grease is fine...the little thumb squirter thing you have screwed onto the tube. At 15:14 in your video...thanks
@@HudsonHenryPhoto found one...must be a bicycle thing lol
Love this review. Pretty confident I'll be purchasing the LM-324CL after this. Since I've never experienced rock claws before, I've got two questions? Which brand rock claws do you prefer? Do you have any experience in snow with the rock claws?
Thanks for the (as always) excellent video. I am wondering if you have had the opportunity to try the new Leofoto LQ-324C? If so, do you have an opinion regarding this newer "Q" series of their tripods?
All of their newer legs are fabulous, that said I ABHORE center columns. So no. I'm systematic or built in leveling adapter only. I don't want something keeping me off the ground or raising me up where I lose the stability provided by the legs' conjunction.
I got a open box set on the way from Leofoto. I had a 15% off code so couldn’t pass it up. Do you know how I can get a bigger bag that holds the pod with the leveling base and manfrotto 500ah head? 👍🏻
Email me and I'll get a link from my distributor. I had them switch to larger bags for all the ones I sell personally through my store www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods
I went the FLM route, they are simply amazing and really affordable compared to RRS and Gitzo, my second one is on the way :)
They certainly make nice stuff but thier tallest is a foot shorter than this, weighs a third of a pound more and costs 300 more dollars...
@@HudsonHenryPhoto you probably compared it with the CP-34 Lii witch has 34mm tubes, if you compare it with the CP-30 Lii that has 30 mm tubes, the FLM is lighter but yes a little shorter and not $300 more 😉
The Leofoto's do look like great tripods as well !!
@@stephaneclaveau9736 The price and weight are good on that pod, but it's too short and too light duty for my main rig. It fits between my ultra light sub 4 pound rig about it's height and the big legs here that I prefer whenever possible. Anything in-between is too much of a compromise for me personally. :-)
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Great review Henry, I am seriously thinking about the bike wrap for my legs, and I guess you mentioned here you use gaffers tape to tie up the ends...got to try it.
BTW, I ended up going with the FLM CP-30 l4II...I debated back and forth between Leofoto (a big fan of theirs...love my LH-40 ballhead) and the FLM...but It basically came down to height and weight. with FLM, I ended up at 68" vs at best 60" of the Leofoto's in my price point (Sub $400), and the FLM was also about a 1lb lighter. Yes, it was about $100 more than the Leofoto....and I took some pause with that, but ultimately I wanted the lightest possible sturdy rig. With just 2 of the 3 leg extension open, ballhead on, and the camera attached, It's just shy of eye level but super sturdy!
Either way, I really don't think you can go wrong with Leofoto's products. Very well engineered and great materials and fit and finish. I was really impressed when I received my LH40, and could definitely see the connection (homage or copy) of the RRS ballheads, at a fraction of the cost.
So unfortunately my setup (exactly what you recommend here with the Leveling Adapter and the Fluid Head) that my wife ordered me for Christmas 2021 will not fit down in the storage bag assembled. I wonder if Leofoto changed the bag recently.
I have them use the larger bags still on the ones I sell trough my store direct now. Email me at hi@hudsonhenry.com and I'll see if I can't get you fixed up through the US distributor. :)
When you put the leveling base on the tripod it really increases the height of the head. Wouldn't this increase instability by changing the center of gravity? When I looked at this rig, the actual base seemed quite small as well so less of a base? Finally do you discuss somewhere how the 500AH with the leveling base handles the heavier telephoto lenses? I'm a bird photographer and am always conscious of the top-heaviness, which it seems the leveling base just increases on top of the tripod's small base. Thanks for a reply. I just discovered you channel and just subscribed. Well done videos. Over my head right now with all the technical stuff but that's why I can watch them again!
Hey Breck. With a 400 2.8 and pro dslr, I'd prefer the gimbal I have, but the 500AH works fine, you just need to lock it to avoid flop with so much weight if it started to tip out of balance. With my 500PF on a D500 or Z camera + FTZ it's great and the fluid slows any drop to very slow motion. It handles great. You can see all that demonstrated in this video... ruclips.net/video/qVZLDfq-mEo/видео.html
No the adapter does provide a lift, but it's a rock solid lift. Not like a center column at all. I notice no drop in stability from my days with the half ball. Just a lot more versatility getting low and more ease of leveling with both hands on the head and my pinky finger to lock the leveler enough to drop my hands to give it that extra snugging. I'll certainly not go back. :)
FYI it's $455.20 on Amazon 3 left in stock. April 9th 2021.
I got one! Arriving tomorrow!
Hudson, eager to try this kit - what is are the dimensions of the Leofoto kit all put together with the MVH500AH and rock claws ?
You mean collapsed length?
funny this video just came out and just this morning i ordered the Leofoto LM-364C and the LB-75S. i watched your first video on the one with the leveling base but i ended up opting for the 364c instead. So after watching this i am more excited for the new to show up. Thanks
What link for Leo photo fluid attached in video. I like this setup and just cancelled a recent Amazon purchase with something similar.
I need a tall tripod because the not tall tripods mostly stop at 70", what if I want to take an eye level headshot of someone pushing 7 foot?
Or you want to shoot over some overgrown hedge standing on a bench, or on a steep hillside with a leg extended downslope, or on the edge of a tide pool or stream with a leg in the water. The all too practical list goes on and on. Once you've had the capability, you don't want to be without it. You feel... limited
Tons of informationI in one video. Thank you so much for sharing this. I live in Australia and when I try to buy this via your link it asks me to use Amezon Australia link... will that help you if i buy Amezon Australia?
Leofoto it is then…unless you’re planning a 2 day+ hike. 6.7lb? Don’t recall any material specs. Is it carbon fiber? 👍👍
Here's the latest on my tripods any questions you have should be answered easily here or email if you want more details Neil: www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods
Thank you for the review. The Gitzo has much broader legs than the new tripod. Also, what is the difference in carrying capacity?
The leg angle has never been the slightest bit noticeable in practice to me. I've shot my 500 in 40mph winds with either tripod and a 30 pound sandbag in the stone shelf. Can't imagine needing more.
The gitzo sadly starts falling apart very quickly these days. They just aren't built like they used to. The Leo is machined to a much better standard. Much better made, more innovative, lighter and cheaper.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Thank you for your quick and in-depth reply! I have a Gitzo traveler and mini and several Gitzo bags and find them excellent albeit expensive indeed! One thing that attracts me in the Gitzo Systematic is the ability to screw on accessories through a Manfrotto Mini Friction Magic Arm. Litra lights can be screwed on to do macro photography etc. I'll have a decent look at the Leo though! Thank you! Bart
The Leo's have those threaded ports too. Their locking system is much more refined that gitzo's on the systematic top. The spider is cnc milled instead of cast and the leg locks are much more durable than gitzo's new rubber wrapped ones which degrade in sun and saltwater. Mine as well as many of my followers failed within one year. The kicker is leo is lighter, half the price, comes with a nice bag, spikes, the bowl and plate plus a tool kit. Ouch. I carried gitzo for two decades... But not now.
My Leofoto LM-324CL has flex in the central structure.
hmmmm, I just shot with mine in 40mph sustained winds with a 30 pound sandbag in the stone bag and shot steady video and stills at 200 and 500mm. No issue. All carbon flexes a touch. I sure haven't had any issues...
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Thank you for responding, Hudson.
With the utmost respect for you, I must tell you that it is not the carbon alone that is flexing. You and I work differently, and that may be the reason you have not noticed what I'm talking about. You balance all your lenses with that video fluid head you use on your tripod, and a rail to locate the center of moment so that your rig is basically floating without putting stress on the central head mounting plate of the tripod. I use an Acratech GXP ballhead to hold a Fuji GFX 50R on a Kirk L-bracket with zoom lenses hanging off it. My ballhead is attached directly to the central flat plate of the tripod.
Having spent 30 years using an 8x10 on a Gitzo Studex 360 with a Rational 3 head on it, I recently found out that it too flexed when I hung this Fuji on it. The centrally mounted 8x10 was hiding that tendency from me all those years.
When I first noticed this phenomenon, I interpreted it as positional drift in the Acratech ballhead. It wasn't landing where I put it. I protested loudly to Scott at Acratech about his GXP ballhead. He suggested that it could be the tripod. I set the camera up on the tripod and pushed on it. It moved the central aluminum structure just enough to act like the ballhead was not holding. When I really studied what the motion was it became obvious that it was the central plate and ring structure of the tripod that was flexing, along with some flex in the carbon.
I abjectly apologized to Scott. He said he had seen this with many tripods. It led me to do the same test on my heavy Gitzo. It did the same thing. I had just never noticed it before.
I would invite you to hang your 500 from the camera body's base tripod hole on a regular head and just see what happens when you push on it. I've learned to compensate for the movement by not using the lens to position the shot, but instead using a grip only on the camera body. I think you've just not seen it because of your very balanced rig (which is a thing of beauty, by the way).
I am fully prepared to eat crow, and would love to be proved wrong. I would refer you to Scott at Acratech for further information about our conversation.
I love your videos. Please do not take this response as any sort of condemnation of your work. I have the greatest respect for your expertise. I'm just contributing my experience of this product.
Thanks.
@@billmarsh7760 What a great detailed response. Yes, that's why my friend John Eastcott uses the big Gitzo series 5 systemic legs. Light weight and rigidity hit that balance beam from time to time with trade offs. I'll have to test this a bit. I adore and respect Scott at Acratech. They are one of my absolute favorite brands to work with. :-)
thanks for the review.
you speaked so highky about the robus 5570 for so long and then in a blink you changed up to leofoto.
how do they compare?
Nice review. Leofoto has a nice website with detailed product info. How about stability? Has Leofoto the same leg diameter with gitzo? I wonder where the weight savings come from. I decided to for RRS 24L which gets to 68 inches long (not 78) but is about the same weight with the Leo if you add the leveling base. I am really happy with it. It is double the price though.
It's identical diameter I think. Absolutely as stable. RRS makes quality gear, but I avoid them as much as possible for a number of good reasons. The people at Kirk and Acratech are such nice folks...
Hudson Henry Photography I got your Panorama Class last week. Very happy with the content and I recommend it to others as well. There is something about a panorama with a normal (tilt-shift?) lens that draws you into the picture. I really like architectural panoramas.
Hi Hudson,
Do you know if the Leofoto LB-75S leveling base will fit my Induro GIT 304 Grand Series Carbon Fiber tripod that has the MVH500 fluid head on it now? I would like to get rid of the handle underneath that you level it with so I can get lower to the ground. Bruce Philipps
Yes it will. Absolutely. :-)
Enjoyed your video but a link to an amazon URI that says the product is unavailable and it is not know when or if the product will be available, really isn't much use.
They sold out of a large stock in two days after this went live! My contact says there are lots more on route and will be in stock very soon. Check back late next week and it should be there. This set of legs is so new, that this was the fist US batch sold.
That is a nice looking system!
Great and thorough review... thank you. Just curious as to your opinion on the Leofoto vs the Robus you reviewed so highly? Ready to purchase a new tripod and I'm curious as to which one you would lean towards?
Leofoto all the way. 100% Please check out www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods
Hi Hudson, Nice video. Have a look at the Leofoto BV10 FLUID HEAD.
I've been using it for about a year and it's replaced both my Manfrotto
fluid heads (500AH and 502AH), even for telephoto work out to 840mm
(canon 300 2.8 with 2x and 1.4x kenko stacked). It's lighter and smaller
than the 500AH, is really smooth and beautifully built. It is more
expensive than the 500AH, but I really find it worth the extra money.
I have the same question. I've also been using the BV10 for about a year and love it. The main features I like over the Manfrotto are the smaller size and the fact that it's arca-swiss compatible without any adapter. The only downside is that the BV10 fluid is a bit sluggish in temps below freezing. I never used my Manfrotto in those temps so I don't know if that one would be any better.
I may try one out, but it would take a lot to move me from the 500AH. The 502 was never a favorite of mine.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto worth a try I think. I liked the 500ah a lot, but the BV10's small size and weight appealed to me. Maybe leofoto would send you one for evaluation? Thanks for replying Hudson.
Great review. Thanks Hudson. I really like the timeline scrubbing feature. That’s awesome. Wondering about stiffness and vibration control relative the Gitzo’s. It occurs to me that some trade off needs to be made relative to the price and weight benefits. Any thoughts on this?
No, it's just as nice a build quality and carbon and exactly the same specs for tubes and diameter. Just as damp and stiff. Better barrels. The weight savings is in the crazy machining up top. It's all milled CNC work whereas the Gitzo is cast and seems clunky by comparison.
Great review. I have had excellent support from leofoto, and their factory store sells excellent refurbished items. I have a big gitzo and a leofoto 60 inch. Love the leofoto and their leveling adapter. One benefit of the manfrotto is the handle under the half ball allows easy adjustments of the leveling with a heavy lens, but otherwise the leofoto is better in every respect. The Gitzo is also great, so no complaints on either. Salens makes great rock claws also and may be the same as the leofoto
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Awesome! Thanks so much for the reply and apologies for the belated response.
Price difference is mainly Gitzo brand name + made in Italy vs Chinese company made in china. That doesn't mean the Chinese one is any worse though. For me as a Finnish person, I prefer a European company over American or Chinese ones. Leofoto is also kind of hard to source here as they have few stores selling them in Europe and none in Finland. 3 Legged Thing makes good stuff cheaper than Gitzo and comes from the UK but they don't have a 2 meters tall model..
Aha, found it! Thank you. Sorry to ask more questions 😛 How do you carry your LM-324CL set up on hikes? Including the Leofoto leveler and Manfrotto 502AH it seems pretty tall packed down? Still trying to decide between thi system and the other smaller one you mention. For the 502AH what plates should I use for the Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 and Nikkor 200-500mm f5.6? Thank you so much again 😃
You'll love the 500ah and tall legs more. I use the side compression straps on my Fstop bags. Keep the feet near the bottom of the bag and the head can be up behind your head. It's not heavy or awkward for me at all. If you want to, with a twist and pull off the safety catch you can pop the leveling adapter out of the legs with the head and toss it in the bag. I generally don't though. It's really not an issue. As a backpacker I've strapped stuff like that outside my bag for decades. (fishing poles, tent parts, map tubes, skis).
Kirk makes a bridge for that head too. That or mount a manfrotto plate right to the foot and connect direct.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto thank you again! That helps me :)
Can the 502 head be attached to the LS-284CEX too? So have one head for both legs?
I currently have a manfrotto Beefree GT XPro Carbon tripod with a cheap Arca Swiss adapter on top for my L Brackets (D850/D500) - so going to these two Leofroto tripods with the Leofroto leveler and 502AH, if I can source the Kirk Bridge in the UK that will give me Arca Swiss :)
The Kirk Universal multi use lens plate 4.50 with 2 screws will fit both 70-200 (2 hole) and 200-500 (one hole) collars?
Your channel is amazing - just starting to view them. Love the one about digitizing film
Might try one day to hop on a Zoom though the time difference might be an issue haha
Thank you again!
Again the 502 will, but it's just so big, heavy, awkward and unessesary compared to the 500. I really steer people away from it. 500. 500. It's plenty for my big lenses with pro dslr bodies even.
Thanks so much.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Hi. Ok, I reviewed your Videos again and today can announce I have opted for the following
500AH Pro Fluid Head
Leofoto LS-324CEX Tripod & Levelling Base
Universal Quick Release Adapter with Quick Release Clamp-use to convert to arca-swiss
2 Manfrotto 504PLONG Long Quick Release Mounting Plates
Set of 3 Leofoto Tripod Long Spikes
I think that does it? :)
Thank you so much. I will let you know how I get on
Hudson, great review. This tripod was not on my radar. Like the grease gun but cannot find one. Do you have Amazon link?
Hey Hudson, Love the review. I could really use the weight reduction but I am thinking it best for me to lose some personal weight first!! 🙂 I have a question regarding the bag. When I bought the Robus it had a nice bag but the zipper didn’t hold up. How is the zipper on the Leofoto bag? And I have an f-stop bag for my tripods that works great. You would still use it for hiking, correct? I do need to put some padding or protection at the bottom of my f-stop so the rock claws don’t rip through eventually. I used to use the rock bag but now that I mount it higher, I need to pull it off to wrap around the feet. If I find a simple solution, I will let you know. Maybe others have something they use at the bottom of their bags to stop the rock claws or points from damaging them? Dave
I can't speak to the durability of the bag yet, but I'd use it more as a travel or around town bag. I wouldn't take it deep in the field. Yes, you need to protect that bad ass roll-top F-stop bag from the claws. How about a Think Tank Red Whip like I hand out at the workshops and a large enough square of light fabric around them?
Important question about taping the legs.
When it comes time to cleaning my tripod after a day at the beach, I soak it in a tub with fresh water.
My concern is water being trapped underneath the tape. Otherwise, I'd love to give it a try.
Thoughts?
It'll dry just like it does on the road bicycles' handlebars it's designed for. If you're soaking your legs, be certain to grease the hick out of the leg lock threads. Your larger concern should be water between the legs or way up in the carbon metal interface where the spider meets the legs. I don't open & collapse mine after saltwater use until I rinse the exposed sections and let them dry. Every now and then I disassemble, clean all the parts and regrrase the threads when reassembling. I really can't advocate "soaking" :)
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Hm. I think the reason why I soak the tripod is because when I go from the beach back to the car, and from the car back to the house, the tripod at some point will rest on its side and any salt water that gets in will have traveled up the legs.
I guess a solution to that would be to take the feet off once I get back to the car. And spritz the outside with freshwater from a squeeze bottle I keep in the car. I noticed you use a lot of grease - you mentioned it helps keep water out. I'll try that.
Really appreciate your perspective on all things photography. Different than a lot of the others online. :-)
@@b.a.p.4718 Yeah, totally. Use a waterbottle when you come out of the saltwater, or a stream and dry the legs with a cloth before you get back in. What you don't want to do is open the joint with saltwater on the leg and retract it up into the bigger legs. Think of those twist locks with grease as a barrier. Don't shrink it till you rinse and dry it. :-)
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Okay, that makes sense. :-)
Do you have any tips or tricks for drying the inside of the legs? At home I've used long strips of cloth and a wooden dowel after a deep clean to shove inside the legs to dry them. I keep ahold of the towel end so I can pull it back out.
But I'm thinking maybe a cotton swab that like a clarinetist would use to dry their instrument might work better or be easier to quickly deploy and stow away in the car.
@@b.a.p.4718 You won't need to if you don't open and collapse the exposed parts till you rinse and dry it. If you open it, don't close it till you rinse it at the car or in a stream. If for some reason you have to close it with saltwater on the legs (like to rock climb up something with it on your backpack instead of open long on your shoulder, then disassemble the whole thing and clean it with a bottle brush (from a brewery supply) and rags before re-greasing and reassembling. As long as you don't run wet sections up inside others and the threads are greased, you're fine.
Rock Claws vs long Spikes for sand? Which do you find work best Hudson?
Thanks, Clive
Spikes in the sand. Rock claws for everything else except fine wood or ceramic floors. ;-)
@@HudsonHenryPhoto thanks Hudson
Thanks for sharing, I have been looking at leofoto for some time, this one looks awesome would the VH-30R head work with this tripod. Just subscribed
Ah, you discovered the Acratech long lens head too. :) Pricey, but worth it.
No it's their Panorama head, but it's very similar and yes, worth every penny. That is if you can't afford the extra pound weight of my preferred, cheaper fluid head. :)
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Yes. That head is a bit heavier and probably a bit stronger. I opted for the basic "long lens" version to save weight and hope that it is still strong enough. It is also pretty compact when the top part is folded over for carry in a bag. I just got it direct from Acratech a week ago so I havent had a chance to test it out, but anything to reduce the weight of my tripod bag is good. :)
I bought the Robus 5570 based on your review a while back, I'm a little disappointed to come back to your videos to see the you have completely dropped it, just wasn't the tripod for you? I do like the lightweight Leofoto though.
The Robus is really well made. It was the first fabulous alternative to my big Gitzo at a reasonable price, but a pound heavier. I reached out to Robus with thoughts for improvements a few years ago (back when I promoted it)... Crickets. Never a word back.
Then fast forward 18 months, Leofoto's US distributor approached me. Their quality blew me away. I told them what was missing in the market and what I dreamed about having ... 3 weeks later I had a dreamy prototype in my hands. Taller than the Gitzo, 1/2 the price, beautifully machined, more innovative, 1 pound lighter, 2 pounds lighter and a lot taller than the Robus... Sold.
There's nothing wrong with the Robus, and at the time... It was the best alternative to the Gitzo. Sadly... they're both better made than the new Gitzo stuff. After decades of carrying them, I'm not a fan of the current quality from Gitzo. :(
I'm glad you got the light leofoto. It's a great companion to the bigger robus when you need to go light. :)
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Im really happy you replied I really respect your opinion, I can see what happened behind the scenes now and makes perfect sense to switch!
Great stuff. I love the idea of bicycle tape on the legs! Never even thought of that. Can you tell me how much tape it took? Most are 2000mm long and come in pairs. Would that be enough? Thanks in advance! Waiting for the legs to come back in stock...
I use a roll per leg, so I get 2 sets and have a spare roll. :-)
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Thanks. Ordering now!
Question - Can that cork grip tape come out like gaffe tape comes out without any residue etc?
Absolutely. It's not really tape. You stretch it tight and gaffe tape the ends to hold it.
Fantastic information Hudson! A larger tripod is definitely a huge plus. I currently own a Sirui R-4214X tripod for several years and am quite happy with it. Very sturdy and relatively light weight (for such a sturdy tripod). I might buy the Leofoto tripod later but my most urgent need is a head. I have a Manfrotto fluid head on order. But I have a question about the Leofoto leveling base. Do you think it will fit my Sirui tripod?
I haven't personally tried a Sirui Systematic set like that, but it should. It would fit Robus, Gitzo, Manfrotto, Induro, Benro or any of the other 75mm systematic legs I've owned. I can't imagine they'd go off spec with theirs. :-)
I have a Lefoto leveling base operating in my Sirui and it's fine.
@@dakmandotcom6682 Thank you. Mine is on order; will take a while since it is coming from Amazon US.
Hey Hudson,... great video man as always. Tried using your link to the Leofoto legs. Amazon responded the LM-324CL was "Currently Unavailable. We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock". Saw the LM-324CEX model, which is nice with the 'Built-In' leveling,... just a little short. You got an updated link? Really want to support you. Thanks.
My Leofoto guy assures me that the 324CL will be back in stock within a week. Hit me up if it isn't. It's really the legs to get. ;-)
Hey G'mornin' Hudson! That's great news to hear. After reading your response yesterday, I took a cruse through Leofoto's website. While there, I noticed the LM-364CL, which looked to be a stouter but shorter sibling. Still, at only 67", I figure I'll be looking at 75" to 76" at the eyepiece after gluing on the LB-75S leveler, fluid head w/Arca adapters, and the camera body. That's enough to get me up on a step stool. LOL!
which are better? or is there a difference when to use one or the other? what are the pros and cons, I'm asking about ball head vs bowl head.
I can't think of a good use for a ball head. I exclusively use fluid or panorama heads. Check out my fluid head videos to see why.
Enjoying your tripod videos... What are your thoughts on the LeoFoto heads?
I really can't stand ballheads in general. I'm excited to try their gimbal soon though. The manfrotto 500AH is my go to head.
I was looking at their video head BV-10 but maybe that’s too big ..
I commend you and respect you for not trying to push the most expensive equipment as being the best choice. I have made purchases based on your suggestions and recommendations. I use FLM tripods and find the quality and features among the best available for less cost. Thanks for sharing
I have the Leofoto LB-75 ...sans 'S'. will that work with this tripod?
Sure. It will add a little weight and an extra screw connection, but you can mount it to the drop in flat plate instead of using the direct drop in leveling adapter version. Absolutely.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Perfect. I was a day away from purchasing the Robus...but I think this is a better option. Thanks!!
How would you compare ProMedia Gear tripods ?
PMG is spectacularly made and bombproof. No doubt. However the 424L equivalient is 3 inches shorter much more than twice as expensive (1350 dollars compared to 570 dollars) and two pounds heavier. I'll take the Leofoto with enough left over for a bunch of other gear and an extra lens in the bag for the same weight. Trust me these legs are really nice.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto sounds good I learned something new as I search for a new tripod. Will check out Leofoto now. I think I plan on a really right stuff head.. Does that make sense like the BH-40 ?thanks
I'd really urge you to check out the fluid head instead. I have 100s of converts and zero complaints so far. If you must stick with a ballhead, look at the acratech gxp. There's no better ball made and they're also really nice people. I avoid RRS whenever I can.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto For sake of a fluid head that is compact not heavy for travel, and my gear would total maybe 12 pounds at most with the average being 5-6 pounds. Which fluid head ?
@@movieman2009 it's all at my links page. Www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks :)
I bought the Gitzo based on the gear recommendations about 2 weeks ago .......... enough said
30 days at both Amazon and B&H... :) that said the gitzo is a fantastic set of legs that won't let you down. I've used mine for years and years. If the rubber barrel wraps break down, use some gaffe tape to hold you over and contact them for free new ones. This pod hasn't existed till last week, so I couldn't recommend it before...
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Yeah, you never know what's round the corner. Just bad timing as the new setup does look better, and whilst I'm impressed by the Gitzo's, they are heavy and definitely look designed for video.
They're very similar in all regards. The only other legs that come close are the $1350 Promedia Gear legs that are a pound heavier than the gitzo's. Robus is priced right, but much shorter and also a pound heavier than your gitzo. Until this new set from Leofoto, gitzo was the only game in town in my book. :) They still rock.
My case will only fit the legs and leveling base, not with the fluid head attached. Why's that?
Email me. I'll put you in touch with the rep. I had one other person encounter this too. I think it was a mistake with a few. They swapped it for him. Email me at hi@hudsonhenry.com and I'll help you sort it out.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Thanks Hudson!
Gotta have!!
I switch and I like it. It is so easy to set up and level. Also it is much faster to compose. I did not believe it it is true. I switch because I needed a larger tripod and the price was right. Very nice tripod. I do have one con for this system. I am not keen on the location of horizontal knob just behind the fluid head. When shooting something up and the fluid head is tipped it is hard to grasp the knob to tighten of free the horizontal movement. Other than that it a great system.
Much thanks for the whole review, all the practical advice and also for the link to the cork wrap - I had a hell of a time on Amazon finding non-crappy cork wrap...
What is the price difference between the CEX version and the one you got with the raised leveling unit...?
Everything is at my links. www.hudsonhenry.com/atslinks Those help me out and I can always send more if there is another need.
You've convinced me on Leofoto, still not 100% sure about getting such a tall tripod and still debating on thicker legs. Reviewing the Leofoto site to gather as much info as possible to compare the summit series, I saw there is now a Leofoto LMP-324CL (Poseidon Series) which is supposed to be more water and sand proof. I live in Costa Rica and the humidity is high all year long so corrosion-proofing is a must. I currently own 2 Manfrotto tripods and both have screws showing signs of corrosion.
Hudson, do you have any thoughts on the Poseidon series, is the Leofoto LMP-324CL the exact same tripod as the LM-324CL except with added anti-corrosion parts?
Looks like a great product. How did you resist using the "small man/big tripod" photo from our Olympic National Park workshop? ;-)
It was tempting. :)
You wiped out stock of the tripod legs on Amazon with this video. I clicked the link only 9 days after you posted the video. Amazon says Currently Unavailable. LOL
It sold out the second day, but my guy at leofoto assured me they'll have more within a week. Just keep checking. :)
That’s a big tripod
I recently got the Leofoto LM-404c and absolutely love it!
They are making incredible quality gear. Watch for their rise.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto Absolutely! I've already put mine through it's paces and have been extremely impressed. the 40mm legs are insanely sturdy/stout. Plus like you said, they have stock. I had an order from Colorado tripod Company for over 8 months with no ship date in site. FLM has been back order for nearly as long for the major retailers as well.
Where are Lefoto tripods made?
China like so many things these days. I'll tell you this though. These are some insanely well made legs from the carbon weave to the top grade CNC milling. The gitzo may be made in Italy, but the cast work on my 3543XLS does not stand well in comparison.
Sorry but I disagree. Its nice that Leofoto has some more affordable stuff but the Gitzo has definitely higher quality materials and is also better machined IMO. The Gitzo also stands wider thats why the Leofoto is smaller when packed but higher when standing. Thats somehow exchanging stability for nicer measurements on the paper. To the locking of the quick release plate: I actually prefer how gitzo designed it. Look how much the thumb screw on the leofoto points outwards. Image having your tripod strapped on the back of your heavy backpack and then putting your backpack onto the ground. You could accidentally have all the weight of your gear on this small screw since it points so far outwards and bending it this way. This cant happen on gitzo since it is tangential with the tripod. Your comparison is also somehow unfair because I have the same Leofoto levelingbase (which I do like) but I use it on my Gitzo (the quick release plates actually fit each other) as you could do it as well. That would allow the Gitzo to get down low and to be a tiny bit higher. However I do have one Gitzo and three Leofoto tripods. They are good but Gitzo is still top of the line IMO.
My last gitzo started falling apart after 18 months of my typical use. Literally had the carbon legs separating from the poorly made cast spyder as well as the leg locks rubber coming off. The Leo with its cnc milled spyder is still rocking now 3 years on. Like new still. I used gitzo exclusively for 20 years. They ceased being that company about 6 years ago sadly. Zero innovation, cast parts vs milled. Heavy and poor quality. Do yourself a favor and mount your legs on the side, not the back. Id never carry all that weight cantilevered out. The stance issue is completely ameliorated by a 20 dollar stone bag with a hook. I'm custom building systems now and have sold hundreds of them. Www.hudsonhenry.com/tripods Not a single complaint yet. Only... "Holy cow. This is the best setup I've ever used' comments. :)
If you really want to spend twice as much on much lower quality it's 100 percent your right. Differences of opinion make the world spin in a more fun way.
But it’s regular leg angle is simply too steep. It’s a dealbreaker. If you have a direct contact with Leofoto then please tell them they need to make a series with a wider standard angle.
I’d like a long version of an LS-323, that has wider standard angles, for hiking with big lenses. The tripod review sites have been talking about these bad angles for years.
It's leg angle is identical to my Gitzo, Induro, Robus and RRS legs. Super curious what you're after...
I can only assume you're referencing the tripods they made a few years ago. These new legs I'm reviewing are nothing at all like what Leofoto made a few years ago. The quality, fit and finish are shockingly top notch and the design choices in these latest models are actually better than any other tripod brand I've used.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto what? I can tell just from your video here that the angle is steeper than your gitzo!
@@HudsonHenryPhoto I looked up the specs and they do both say 23•, so maybe you’re right.
@@hautehussey Nope. Just set them up side by side to check my sanity. The Gitzo is slightly steeper angled. Just barely. The Leofoto has a significantly smaller top cap though, so it starts narrower. Both idetically set for me at eye level the Gitzo is 38.5 inches foot to foot. The Leofoto is 38. At full extension the Leofoto's shallower angle makes up for it and it's 62.6" to the Gitzo's 62 inches. Pretty much close enough to call equivalent. Just measured.
Damn. I just built my $1600 tripod in June based on your recommended $899 Gitzo legs. Now you're dissing the Gitzo legs in favor of the new legs.
Don't get me wrong. The Gitzos are fabulous and they've been my go to legs for over 10 years,, and those legs won't fail you. If the rubber rings split contact their support and they will send new barrels to you for free. You will never regret that big pod and if you want to upgrade to the leveler I reccomend here it will go right on top of the 3543 too.
Unlike you and me some folks just can't afford the Gitzos. I've been wishing I could help Gitzo or another company design an even better tall pod and get the price down a bit. ProMedia gear was long the only other game in town and it was even more expensive. I reached out to several other companies and got the cold shoulder.
The connection with Leofoto this year was fortuitous. Who would think that I would request a design from the US distributor and have something engineered even better than I dreamed land on my door less than 3 months later. :-) It simply didn't exist till right now.
@@HudsonHenryPhoto - Thanks for the response, Hudson. Sorry about giving you a hard time. I hate it when members are too harsh. I love the setup you recommended and will continue taking your advice on equipment. I've purchased 4 medium priced tripods in the past and never really liked any of them. My new fluid head tripod is the best tripod I've ever seen. My next purchase will be that lightweight travel tripod since the Gitzo is a bit too big to take on flights.
Oh Henry. I just built my Robus RC-5570 setup with all your recommended specs and Kirk offerings last week. It’s within the 30 day return window. Getting 9 inches more height and 1 pound lighter. Would you recommend this setup over the Robus?
@@kylel.1342 yes, absolutely.
Always worry about your third leg. Where would you be without it?
Was liking it and ready to try them out until seeing that it’s a China company
SILICONE grease works best
"Ultra-light" and "weighs less than 4 pounds" - something's not right here...
I would never use a lighter tripod than the ultralight setup I have. It's rock solid and locks a heavy lens setup down like a vice with no center column to reduce stability. I've never before carried a tripod under 7 pounds, so sub 4 is ultralight in my book. :)