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Manfrotto 161MK2B Super Professional Tripod Mk2

BH #MA161MK2B • MFR #161MK2B
30 reviews
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Manfrotto 161MK2B Super Professional Tripod Mk2
Key Features
  • Load Capacity: 44 lb
  • Max Height: 105.1"
  • Min Height: 17.3"
  • Folded Length: 41.3"
The Manfrotto 161MK2B Super Professional Tripod Mk2 is one of the tallest in the Manfrotto line of tripods, and is capable of supporting cameras up to 44 lb, at a height of 105.1". It is the ideal large format tripod for home and studio use.
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Manfrotto 161MK2B Overview

The Manfrotto 161MK2B Super Professional Tripod Mk2 is one of the tallest in the Manfrotto line of tripods, and is capable of supporting cameras up to 44 lb, at a height of 105.1". It is the ideal large format tripod for home and studio use.

The 161MK2's center column is geared for easy, accurate adjustment. This tripod can easily handle an 8x10 view camera even at full height and precarious angles.

The built-in mid-level spreader adds anti-torsional rigidity and stops the tripod legs from accidentally being knocked wider apart. Compared to a ground-level spreader or dolly, the mid-level spreader has the advantage that it stays well out of the mud and dirt and is more suitable for use on uneven terrain.
The geared center column allows for safe and precise height adjustments.
The three set screws in the camera platform can be used to permanently secure the head to the tripod, providing additional security.
The twist locks are slightly slower to use than the more common "Quick Action" flip lever leg locks, but give total control over locking force. In addition, they are much easier to service out in the field.
UPC: 719821288152

Manfrotto 161MK2B Specs

Key Specs
Head Mount Type
3/8"-16 Male
Primary Material
Aluminum
Load Capacity
44.1 lb / 20 kg
Maximum Working Height
105.1" / 267 cm
Max Height with Center Column Down
95.3" / 242.1 cm
Minimum Working Height
17.3" / 43.9 cm
Closed Length
41.3" / 104.9 cm
Weight
17.5 lb / 7.9 kg
Legs
Head Mount Type
3/8"-16 Male
Primary Material
Aluminum
Leg Lock
Screw Knob
Leg Sections
3
Independent Leg Spread
No
Foot Features
Retractable, Spiked
General
Load Capacity
44.1 lb / 20 kg
Maximum Working Height
105.1" / 267 cm
Center Column
Yes (Round): Center Brace
Max Height with Center Column Down
95.3" / 242.1 cm
Minimum Working Height
17.3" / 43.9 cm
Closed Length
41.3" / 104.9 cm
Bubble Level
Yes
Weight
17.5 lb / 7.9 kg
Packaging Info
Package Weight
20.5 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
42.5 x 9 x 8.5"

Manfrotto 161MK2B Reviews

Geared column design flaw

By William
Rated 3 out of 5
Date: 2025-04-09

The tripod itself is quite robust and dissipates vibrations quickly. It can definitely handle heavier loads, BUT there is a design flaw in the geared column. The flaw becomes apparent only when lowering the central column. Instead of smoothly descending as you turn the crank, the tooth on the gear (or on the central column) disengage and whatever you have on the tripod drops down one full tooth with a loud thunk. The distance dropped seems to be equal to one gear tooth, but that is worrisome if you have delicate equipment. Each turn of the crank, another gear slip, thunk, thunk, thunk. B&H authorized a return, but the second tripod does the same thing. That means this is not a defect, it's a feature. I have maneuvered the placement of the load in relation to the central gears and I have also greatly reduced the speed at which I turn the crank. This reduces, but does not entirely eliminate, the problem. I ordered this tripod for the express purpose of a heavy duty support with an equally sturdy geared column. The 161MK2 definitely delivers on the heavy duty support part, but the geared column performance is erratic when lowering even a modest load (only 14 pounds in my case). If your equipment can withstand a succession of 5 mm drops or if you don't need to lower the central column, this tripod might work. But if you need a solid geared central column, this is probably not the best choice.

Tripod beast

By Kifleyesus
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-08-05

This tripod is not lightweight but I was still able to move it around without much issue. It's sturdy so it can easily withstand bumps from people or crazy kids. I also like the maximum height it can reach. You will feel comfortable leaving your camera on it and walking away.

See any errors on this page?

Is there somewhere to buy a replacement pad for ...

Is there somewhere to buy a replacement pad for the foot of one leg?
Asked by: Megan
Manfrotto usually sells the set of 3 rubber feet directly. Unfortunately, B&H does not sell those replacements at the moment.
Answered by: Llinelva D
Date published: 2021-10-04

question

Hi Folks,This tripod looks great, and I think it will fit my needs very well. But I notice the center post has a 3/8 x 16 bolt. Is there any way to adapt it to a 1/4 x 20 head? Thanks very much.
Asked by: Anonymous
If the head you are using does not have a reducer bushing in place (allowing conversion from 3/8 to 1/4-20, via removal), you can use one of these pieces:Impact Small 3/8 Female Threaded Adapter to 1/4 -20 Male Threaded PostB&H # IMCA103 Mfr # CA-103
Answered by: Chris L.
Date published: 2020-05-30

What do I need to buy to shoot overhead with this ...

What do I need to buy to shoot overhead with this tripod (which extension arm and any other necessary brackets, etc.)? Thanks so much.
Asked by: Joyce
There are several options for shooting overhead such as this Manfrotto arm: B&H # MA131DB MFR # 131DB https://bhpho.to/3rRQoZ9 You will beed a head if you choose the Manfrotto arm. Another option is this Photek arm which incudes a head: B&H # PHT2500 MFR # TRI-X-2500 https://bhpho.to/3sRwcIg The Photek arm extends to 32 inches which is about 8 inches longer than the Manfrotto arm.
Answered by: Dan W
Date published: 2021-04-05

Can you mount an iPad to the top of this ...

Can you mount an iPad to the top of this trip-pod?
Asked by: Greg
Yes, one can mount an iPad onto the Manfrotto 161MK2B Super Professional Tripod Mk2. The top of the center column in that tripod is a 3/8th inch mount. Many iPad connecting heads are available. One that will fit right on top would be the IK Multimedia iKlip 3 Video Universal Camera Stand Tripod Mount for Tablets::https://bhpho.to/2Wi1qu4
Answered by: Leonard E
Date published: 2020-05-10

question

Is the geared post also a larger diameter (sturdier) than the 475B model?
Asked by: Anonymous
Yes, the geared post is also larger/sturdier to accomodate heavier loads than the 475b model.
Answered by: Yos O.
Date published: 2018-08-27

Can the center column be removed and can I add ...

Can the center column be removed and can I add another one from another brand?
Asked by: Kif
The center column on the Manfrotto 161MK2B Super Professional Tripod Mk2 cannot be replaced by a column from a different brand.
Answered by: Dan W
Date published: 2025-10-05

Will the 161mk2b accommodate the Manfrotto ...

Will the 161mk2b accommodate the Manfrotto Nitrotech N12 Video Head?
Asked by: steve
My engineer says the Manfrotto website says they both use a standard 3/8" screw/thread, so he says it looks like they are compatible.
Answered by: Anonymous
Date published: 2020-01-09

I noticed verified buyer/reviewer "Kelley Shoots ...

I noticed verified buyer/reviewer "Kelley Shoots Food" has an image demonstrating a 90degree position on the center column. According to the specs this camera does not have a 90 degree feature. Does B&H offer and option to use this at 90 degrees?
Asked by: John
You can get Manfrotto 131D Lateral Side Arm for Tripods BH #MA131DB
Answered by: vilson
Date published: 2021-01-12
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