Crank handle (Extension Column) on a Tripod?

[bond19]

Anyone tried this or something similar instead of a extension column on their tripod? Is it even feasible and would a typical solid extension column be more stable?

https://www.berlebach.de/en/?bereich=details&id=579

 

[Stu]

Just now, bond19 said:

Anyone tried this or something similar instead of a extension column on their tripod? Is it even feasible and would a typical solid extension column be more stable?

https://www.berlebach.de/en/?bereich=details&id=579

 

I think @Piero may use one of these, and finds it very good.

[Piero]

Yes, my berlebach UNI19 has an extension column and works really well.

In the UNI, the central column can be locked. 

I would also suggest to get the leg spreader (no innuendo was meant!). Berlebach can do it for you. They might install this slightly lower if you get a tripod with a central column, but this won't affect its stability. These are great tripods.

 

Edited September 11, 2020 by Piero

[bond19]

20 hours ago, Stu said:

I think @Piero may use one of these, and finds it very good.

 

19 hours ago, Piero said:

Yes, my berlebach UNI19 has an extension column and works really well.

In the UNI, the central column can be locked. 

I would also suggest to get the leg spreader (no innuendo was meant!). Berlebach can do it for you. They might install this slightly lower if you get a tripod with a central column, but this won't affect its stability. These are great tripods.

 

Thanks so much guys

Reassuring to know the set-up works. I'm going to give this some serious thought. You might have just convinced me on my next tripod!

[Piero]

38 minutes ago, bond19 said:

Thanks so much guys

Reassuring to know the set-up works. I'm going to give this some serious thought. You might have just convinced me on my next tripod!

 

No problem  

I checked Berlebach website. Mine is this one: 

https://www.berlebach.de/en/?bereich=details&id=242 

With the extras: 

* Double Cable Clamps UNI  (this is nice for extra safety, but I don't think it is needed - for my set up at least)

* colour: Natural (the nutwood brown looks lovely too.. )

* Thread: 3/8" but I asked them to make the bolt protruding 15mm (done free of charge)

* leg spread stop: Not the optional one, but I asked them to install this instead: https://www.berlebach.de/en/?bereich=details&id=170  

My tripod was ordered directly from them. They are nice guys, excellent customer service, and they accept customisation.

 

My UNI is rock solid with the Tak-100DF (which is a light refractor) but I don't think it would have any stability issue with 120mm diameter refractors. A guy on CloudyNights uses this same tripod with his TEC140 and he's happy with it. He also uses an AOK AYO II giro mount like mine. With that size, I think one is a bit in between this tripod and a Berlebach Planet.

TeleVue refractors can be a bit heavier than Tak ones. If I had a Tele Vue 102, I would go for a UNI for stability. Reports are nice and would do the job, although some vibration damping should be expected. All is a compromise really... less stiff => more vibration, but less stiff can also mean lighter, therefore more portable and ideal for quick observations.