I've been looking to purchase a tripod and head and am looking for any
information, web sites, etc., that anyone might know about.

I will be using it initially with my old Bushnell Spacemaster, but with
hopes of upgrading to a better telescope next year (like many of us I have
to buy my toys incrementally). I intend to use it primarily for birding, but
occasionally for very amateur photography.

At this point I'm leaning towards a Bogen 3021 tripod which seems to have a
bit more weight and stability than the 3001 I had originally considered, but
isn't as heavy or bulky some of the larger models. I've read a couple of
reviews online and this seems a reasonable choice to me at least.

I'm more confused about the tripod head than the tripod. I haven't found any
information other than sales prices. For some reason I'm leaning toward the
Bogen Grip Action Ball Head 3265, but have no particular reason except it
seems kind of fun to use the grip for adjustments. Does anyone have any
thought about this? I have some concerns that the grip will be more prone to
wear than a more traditional head.

Finally, any thoughts on the carrying strap and the case?

Thanks.

Michael Conner
Bellingham, WA
mailto:mtconner at home.com