Manfrotto 3021BN Classic Tripod without Head (Black)

by Manfrotto

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 27 x 4 x 4 inches ; 5 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 5 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B00006I52Y
• Item model number: 3021BN
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (6 customer reviews)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: April 18, 2005

Product Description

Manufacturer Description

The Bogen-Manfrotto 3021BN is one of the most versatile and popular tripods in the Manfrotto range. This specific version is lightweight and portable enough to take into the field, and is ideal for medium format and SLR cameras whether digital or film. The 3021BN provides speedy set-up coupled with added security with quick action, lever-type leg locks, low angle adapter and leg warmers.

Key features include:

• Four leg angle settings
• Center column with an innovative three faced design
• Low-angle adapter built into the center column for ground level shots
• Rapid action lever leg locks with just 45-degree run
• Leg warmers on two legs which keeps hands protected in cold weather and protects the body when carrying the tripod on shoulders.

Product Description

Sturdy and Lightweight Anodized Aluminum / Designed for Still, Video and Sports / Up to 70" with Center Column Extended. This is the tripod only. Camera head is not included and must be purchased separately.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Sturdy+Versatile Tripod, January 11, 2007

By 

E. Kelly (USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Manfrotto 3021BN Classic Tripod without Head (Black) (Electronics)

I'll be coming up on one year of owning a DSLR (D50) in February, so I'm relatively new to this photography business. I have, however, really felt that photography is my niche and have learned so much. One is that anyone serious about photography needs a good, sturdy tripod to get the job done. The 3021BN answers the call nicely.

In terms of build quality, only the higher end Manfrotto/Gitzo tripods can really outshine this one, which is a great thing. One could argue that it's one the heavier side of tripods, but I'm not really a picky person. As a student, I'm pretty much accustomed to the heavy loads of my books and whatnot, so it doesn't bug me. 5.6 pounds really isn't that bad if you hold it with one arm or get a case for it (which, for a good one can run you $40-$60). Of course, you'll have to factor in the weight of a head, as well.

It feels great in the hands and you can really feel how light the second and third set of legs are when you extend the tripod out all the way. Some might think that's a sign of cheapness, the bottom sections being light. On the contrary, they're as strong as can possibly be and I've yet to see them bend or become distorted, even when shooting in the hot+humid Florida weather. Aluminum has its payoffs I suppose.

Really though, it's sturdy as heck. I love shooting with really small apertures and I've yet to see any camera shake at 1/2" at f/22, as an example. The same goes for all of my night shots: no problems on grass or pavement.

Since this is my first tripod, I really can't gauge this with the higher end tripods. I have, however, used some off brand and cheaper tripods owned by others, and I can tell you that almost ANY Manfrotto is an awesome sign of quality.

As for cons with this tripod, I really can't think of any. Simple to use, simple to set up, and it's sturdy. That's all I can really ask for.

Enjoy.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars I knew the old 3021, the old 3021 was a friend of mine!, January 26, 2007

By 

JanSobieski (United States of America) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Manfrotto 3021BN Classic Tripod without Head (Black) (Electronics)

And you sir, are no old 3021!! Bogen has incorporated a few new bells and whistles into this new 3021 which are largely superfluous, but the overall build quality of this tripod has been undermined by the engineers in their attempt to shave a few ounces. The new leg clamps are now plastic, replacing the metal ones of old. The center post has now been squared off into a triangle with rounded corners making the post wobbly until one tightens the clamp which is now plastic as well.

The overall effect is a tripod with less sturdiness and durability than the 3021 of old which was built like a tank. Thankfully, the base plate which holds the tripod head remains constructed of metal which is more than I can say for the 3021Pro whose base plate is now constructed of PLASTIC!

Despite my disappointment over the cost and weight saving measures taken by Bogen in crafting this new 3021, this still remains a fine well constructed tripod offering from Bogen. You can purchase it with confidence, BUT, it's still no old 3021!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome, March 26, 2007

By 

photog sara - See all my reviews

This review is from: Manfrotto 3021BN Classic Tripod without Head (Black) (Electronics)

So happy with the new tripod. Works like a rock. Flip levers are very fast.