Customer Reviews

Manfrotto 3021BN Classic Tripod without Head (Black)

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

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.

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!

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

The Tripod is nicely made and works fine. It's a little heavier than I'd thought and I might have gone with carbon fiber if I'd had them to compare, but the price is good and it's a good tripod.

Sturdy construction. I combined this with the BOGEN 808RC4 Professional Three Way Head w/Quick Release. The head combined with the legs is a great combination.

Although I have yet to take my 3021BN out in the real world I am loving it already, I recently ordered a Bogen ballhead which, when it arrives I am immediately going out to do some low light shooting. For now it sits patiently in its box. When I field test it I will be back to give a definite report...I must say I was impressed with the speed of its delivery--less than four days after I ordered it! Stay tuned.