Benbo Trekker MK3 Tripod

Product Information

But then I HAVE had it for over 20 years and used it for photography and video on every continent except Antarctica. The big advantage for the Benbo Trekker MK3 is the ability to get different angles and move into unique shooting positions that may not be available with other tripods. If you just need to stabilize your camera, the Trekker MK3 may be a bit overkill on its features and functionality. Conclusion Our used products are subject to wear and tear in comparison to brand new products. This also applies to accessories that are supplied with the camera including batteries which may have a lower optimum performance level/life expectancy.

Lenses – Should have no marks on the elements andoptically clear. There may be light dust present that will not effect theimagery. Whether used in the standard configuration with a vertical centre column, down at ground level with legs splayed out, or with one of the legs pointing upward finding support from a tree or wall, Benbo tripods can always be relied upon to give complete stability. I decided to upgrade to a Gitzo carbon fibre model and I must say the Gitzo is in a different league,not really any lighter than the Benbo Mk. 1 but it's considerably more stable. The tubular aluminium construction of the legs offers the best possible combination of weight and rigidity. Each leg can be independently positioned, made possible by the tripods unique, highly flexible main joint, which enables each leg to swing through a complete 360 degrees (see picture). The centre column can also be swung through 360 degrees, producing a combination that allows the camera to be positioned at almost any point. It has to be said that these tripods are more flexibile than any other kind and they do allow you to take pictures that would otherwise not be possible.

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Lenses – The lens has dust inside that may affect images. The rubber zoom/focus ring is coming away from the barrel of the lens. It's difficult to say if a Benbo will meet your needs as it really depends on the type of photography you do,the weight of your equipment and your budget. Right out of the box you’ll notice that the Trekker MK3 is a different kind of tripod. It doesn’t have the traditional joints on the tripod legs with a standard shaft extending up the middle. Instead, the Trekker MK3 utilizes a central pivot point, on which all legs and the supporting arm rotate.

At 4.4 lbs, the Trekker MK3 is not what I would call lightweight, but the included carry case is helpful for extended treks with the tripod. Still yet, with pricier carbon fiber models available in the 2 lbs range, the Trekker MK3 may not be the right fit for those looking for portability as a key feature.The biggest weakness of the Trekker MK3 for me was the head. The MK3 includes a small ball head, which is nice that it’s included, and certainly better than what you get out of a el-cheapo tripod; however, it’s just not up to snuff for fine tuning your composition. Since I saw the MK3 as a potentially great little macro tripod, I was disappointed with such a weak head which really doesn’t offer the fine tuning that I expected from it. A hook at the bottom of the centre column allows a camera bag or sandbag to be attached when greater stability is required. I've got both the Benbo Trekker and the Benbo Mk 1 although they don't get a great deal of use since upgrading to a Gitzo. The Benbo Compact Trekker Tripod is a compact, lightweight version of the Classic No1 aluminium tripod and is ideal for use where the tripod needs to be carried a greater distance. The updated leg head castings allow the legs to be folded compactly when transporting the tripod. Features tubular aluminium legs which offers the best combination of weight and rigidity possible. The flexibility of the leg joint mechanism combined with the ability to swing the centre column through 180 degrees, this allows the camera to be positioned at almost any point relative to the tripod legs. So to summarise,I'd say the Mk 1 is pretty good,the trekker is a bit too light and flimsy.If budget allows a sturdy tripod by Gitzo or Manfrotto would be a better option,IMO.