Induro Carbon 8X CT414 Tripod

Comments about Induro Carbon 8X CT414 Tripod:

This thing is a beast. What I am most impressed about this setup is the quality of the build. Components fit together precisely. They move with a certain amount of friction – they are not loose or shabby. It has a solid, rugged feel to it. This setup is to be used for landscape photography. It is going to be exposed to the elements. It is going to get dirty, sandy, wet, salt – you name it. It feels like it is up for the task. Easily comparable to Gitzo for less $$$. If you're buying this to use with a consumer DSLR and a couple consumer level lenses, that's overkill. This is made for pro level DSLRs, medium and large format cameras with heavy lenses.

When fully extended, the tripod is much taller than I am (and I am 6' 2"). In fact, I don't really have to extend the bottom legs much at all and have my camera ready for me at eye's height. Many say that the bottom segments of a tripod are smaller and therefore a little less stable than the other segments. If you don't have to extend them, you shouldn't. But quite honestly, I can't imagine the bottom segments of this beast being anywhere near shaky. They are about as thick as the topmost segments of the tripod being replaced.

The segments slide in and out with a machined precision. The twist locks on the legs operate on a quick half-turn - much faster than flip-locks. Let me tell you, this is great. If you setup and teardown your tripod a couple dozen times in a day, you'll greatly appreciate this.

The center column is easily extended and I would have no problems doing that. Again, many people would say to never extend the center column as that jeopardizes the stability of the platform. Many go as far as actually cutting the center column short for just that reason. I find that a bit extreme. I would have no problem extending the center column, but doubt I ever would. Again, the tripod, with legs fully extended, is taller than I am. Still, nice to know that I have the confidence to extend the center column in a pinch.

The center column is reversible by unscrewing a bottom end piece. You then flip the column around and mount it upside down. You can use this setup for macro work. The bottom piece unscrews easily. Inserting the column back into the collar is a bit of a pain. It seems overly well engineered. It is very tight – you have to be careful and make sure the notch in the column matches the flange in the collar. Even when the pieces match up, it's a pretty tight fit. Too tight, I think. Maybe with time, the pieces will become a little more relaxed. That end piece also has a hook to attach something heavy for extra stability in high winds. I have a karabiner attached to my camera pack; I just hang it from there in those situations.

For aesthetics, the tripod has this nice matte black finish. Very Darth Vader looking and that is important, as I want to intimidate when I'm out shooting ;-) Seriously, it looks great and will hide the dirt nicely. You'll also note that carbon fiber does not get cold like aluminum. Extra credit for those days when it is chilly, but you don't have gloves on yet. There is padding on all three legs so it doesn't dig in as much when thrown on top of your shoulder.

Comments about Induro Carbon 8X CT414 Tripod:

This tripod stands tall, solid, zero vibration - Remote cable use creates a static image unparalleled.

Not only solid for stills, this Tripod is exceptional as a video base.

I would reccomend this Tripod to any novice or professional.

Comments about Induro Carbon 8X CT414 Tripod:

I needed a very sturdy but lightweight tripod that, without extending the center column, would put the camera viewfinder height higher than I am tall. I'm 6'1". The Induro CT414 fits the bill exactly. This tripod is very well engineered, lightweight and sturdy. Prior to this I was using a Gitzo 6X Mountaineer that just was not tall enough. This is every bit as good as the Gitzo. It is better, if you consider you get equal quality in engineering, workmanship and materials for less cost. It also comes with a carrying case, strap that clips onto the tripod or case, tools and spiked feet.

Comments about Induro Carbon 8X CT414 Tripod:

Unbelievably stable - can go really high when needed with all legs and center column extended - I'm 6'-0" and only need to extend each leg out about 2/3 of the way - having the extra length non-extended really solidifies the legs - with the appropriate sized/type head can handle all super telephoto lens easily

Used with RRS BH-55 head and with the RRS head cover protector attached fits securely into the included bag - a very nice touch

My heavy load is 300 f/2.8 + 1.4xIII on Wimberly Sidekick attached to BH-55 head - Lock it down, no movement / vibration even in the wind

Included tool kit with spiked feet fit in zippered compartment inside of bag. Has a retractable arm at the bottom of the center column for additional loading attachment point for very windy days

About the same weight as my previous much smaller alloy tripod - Weight is not an issue with me with this tripod - I wanted stability, I got it !

Comments about Induro Carbon 8X CT414 Tripod:

I already had the Induro Carbon 8X CT214 Tripod and loved it. The Carbon CT414 is NOT the big brother of the CT214 it is its big daddy! I was going to sell my CT214 when I got the CT414 but the CT414 is 3 lbs. heaver than the CT214. Now I am going to keep the CT214 for the long hikes. Bring out the CT414 for the big stuff! You will not fully understand the CT414 until you see it. It is truly magnificent!

Comments about Induro Carbon 8X CT414 Tripod:

Wildlife photography in the mountains
Easy setup
Would prefer not to have center post, but no issues with initial trips
Passed all functional tests at Yellowstone and RMNP
Liked the extra stability in wind and uneven terrain with super tele and pro bodies
base height good for 6' plus photographer no need to extend center column
Bag and tool kit were nice for travel to locations

Comments about Induro Carbon 8X CT414 Tripod:

Very competitive price considering it's carbon, & includes a case, tool kit, and a substantially lower price point than similar CF tripods on the market with the same size config.

Great height when I need it, stable and most important light weight which puts less stress on my aging joints! IF I need more stability, I just bag the center post with the included hook.

I like the twist leg-locks; less to break off when transporting.

My only dislike, gaffers tape won't stick to the carbon legs!

Comments about Induro Carbon 8X CT414 Tripod:

Study tripod. legs easily extended. Weighs about the same as the Gitzo and yet is much less expensive. has a center post which I don't really use but is reversible and may come in handy. Has similar anti-twist legs as Gitzo except for the bottom leg which can twist.

Comments about Induro Carbon 8X CT414 Tripod:

Best when combined wtih a good gimbal head.