Re: [Leica] ?: Table tripod / ball head recommendations

[CapsTeeth@aol.com]

In a message dated 3/20/00 5:49:52 PM Eastern Standard Time, moore@rscs.net 
writes:

<< I'd like to find a table tripod to use with an M.
 I like the size and style of the Model 14100 (3 folding legs)
 that's listed in the current Leica catalog.  Does anyone have
 comments on this and also the ball & socket head? >>

I collect them.  They are nicely made.  The Canon table-top tripod (also 
formerly made with the "Nikon" name on it) is also nice because the legs 
swing out to set stops, whereas the Leica tripod you have to set the legs the 
distance apart you want them and then tighten the nut.  But the Canon 
tablepod's ballhead is worthless.  Fortunately, it's removable and you can 
use a Leica ballhead on it.  The current Leica ballhead is *expensive*, and I 
think it's too tall for putting the whole thing in a pocket.  But all the 
Leica ballheads are exquisitely machined, almost as magnificent to hold and 
work as the Leica itself.  Find a used short one (I won't bore you with code 
names and catalog numbers), and either a Leica or the Canon legs (or a 
Minolta TR-1, which is almost a clone of the Leica, with a permanent ballhead 
of nice construction.)

 
 <<Are there any "gotchas" to look out for when buying them used?>>
Not really.  The latest tripods have rubber feet, and they can be bought from 
Leica for any of the M-era tripods.  The oldest (black, crinkle-finish) have 
feet that are too small for the rubber tips, but you can get little tips at 
the hardware store that fit.  Otherwise they tend to slip and also scar up 
whatever they're rested on.
 
 <<I've seen several sizes of ball/socket heads -- any major
 differences among them other than the obvious size?
  >>
Yes, some have reversible (or spring-loaded) threads top and/or bottom for 
1/4 and 3/8 size.  Helpful for using the same ballhead on a full-size tripod 
and/or a camera with the 3/8 hole.  My favorite is the "short" 14121, which 
has reversible bushings on both ends and stands about 2/3 the height of the 
later 14121 which is indentical to the current ballhead 14110.

Doc