Kessler Pod as R1 MX tripod?

[Brennan Robideaux]

Just thought I might bring this up. Has anyone ever considered (or done) using a Kessler Pod and Hercules head as a standard tripod for the R1?
http://www.kesslercrane.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=100078

Might be a little robust but I mean for $979 you get sticks and a head that can support 50+ pounds, it seems like a pretty good idea. Save money and get a ton of support+the ability to easily attach other kessler gear. I'd like your thoughts.

 

[Juan Melara]

Did this a few years back.

You'll do it once and then probably never again unless its the only thing you have on hand. Tripod + head are large and weigh almost 30 pounds, making it largely impractical for solo field work. Might work ok in a studio setting though.

From memory the head was actually ok.

 

[Terry VerHaar]

For what it is, this is a nice set-up. But, as Juan says, it is a very heavy beast; probably not the best solution.

 

[Clovis Ong]

couple that with a fully decked out red one.... and you got a very physically demanding set.

 

[chris morgan]

i've got the k-pod (picked up the 4' kessler crane about a year ago) and i'll use it (along with the hercules head) as a standard tripod from time to time, particularly if i don't want it to budge.

it also is a fairly legit looking bit of kit - i've had more than a few clients comment on it. feels like a dropship landing gear or something.

but, as most have noted, it also weighs about as much as a dropship landing gear. and it's fairly ruthless towards delicate human fingers as well - mine's bit me a fair few times.

all in all, enjoyed using, will use again.

 

[Iain Philpott]

I have one but purely use it for the Pocket Dolly / Pocket Jib. Its fab but I have to agree with the comments posted above - it weighs a ton! Great in a wind. Hercules head is not great for 'fine' but you can always use the legs with another head. Works well doubling up/using a ball relocater to shoot from really low. The tripod is heavy enough not to tip over. And with their dolly wheels and seat makes a reasonable dolly. All in all if you don't have to carry it to far it works well. the added benefit is compared to what else is on the market it is a positive bargain considering how well it is made.

 

[Christopher Mills]

RE: weight.. yeah 30lbs is pretty heavy.. though I bet that puppy is stable!

the sachtler 20s1 setup looks to be around 16-20 lbs with arms, spreader and appropriate plates for an R1...
but its $9k used...
for the price, I might consider it as a starter that I could later use with a small jib or slider from same maker..

It flat out take a certain amount of mass to be a good tripod though.. your super light weight ones are not only cheaply priced, they don't function well in one of the key areas of import on a tripod/head combo.. They fail to stay firmly on the ground in a sharp up or down angle or move... thus killing your shot.. and maybe dumping your camera..

 

[Brennan Robideaux]

Thanks guys. Really helpful tips. I think I will try this setup as a starter for my RED one until I can afford lighter/more efficient compass, miller, or O'Connor tripod.

 

[Tim Whitcomb]

Two words... Fluid Head.

I too own the Hercules Head for my kessler Crane but as its NOT a fluid head you wont get smooth pans and tilts. Its DESIGNED FOR THE CRANE... and hence should only be used in a pinch
but I would highly discourage it as a tripod head. You want the tension of a fluid head to provide resistance when panning and tilting to avoid jittery shots.

I am about to list a nice older but fuly refurbished Miller 80 head that has no problem rocking the Red One.

 

[Brennan Robideaux]

How much?

 

[Tim Whitcomb]

How much?

under $1000 with 150m bowl tripod and spreader - sent you PM