Tripod for binoculars

[COSMOSLOVER]

Hi All,

I've just ordered the astronomical binoculars and realized I may need to use them with a tripod... Which tripod would you recommend? I'm not willing to spend a lot of money but at the same time don't want to buy smth that won't last or be difficult to operate...

I'm looking at these two at the moment but not sure if they will be any good:
SLIK SPRINT Video MK II Tripod:
https://www.dccameras.com.au/slik-sprint-video-mk-ii-tripod.html

Manfrotto MKCOMPACTADVBH Compact Advanced Tripod With Ball Head:
https://www.dccameras.com.au/manfrotto-mkcompactadvbh-compact-advanced-tripod-with-ball-head-13916.html

Could you please help? Thank you very much, Lana (complete newbie:))

[dannat]

How tall r u? You'll want a tripod atkeast your height.which binos did u order? A fluid head is much easier to use than a 3 way own tilt

[Premordial]

Hi Lana, its also worth checking out parallelogram mounts for your bino. I've used one before and they make observing a breeze. I'm still hunting for one which suits. May end up making one. Plenty of designs on the web.

[tempestwizz]

I agree with Premordial. You would need a system that allows you to look UP.
Standard tripods would be ok for terrestrial viewing, but when you are trying to look up at 45 degrees or more, it is hard to get your head behind the eyepieces. Maybe borrow a tripod from a friend briefly to work this out for yourself.

[COSMOSLOVER]

Apologies guys,- I didn’t login yesterday!
I ordered Celestron binoculars:
https://www.bintel.com.au/product/celestron-skymaster-15x70/

Being 181cm tall, it would be nice to be looking through binoculars without the need to bent down of course:) although I might end up using a chair for prolonged viewing.
The binos are supposed to arrive tomorrow... which ones with fluid head could you recommend?
Thanks very much again!

[COSMOSLOVER]

Well...
Here it is - Manfrotto MK290XTA3-2W XTRA Aluminium 3 Section Tripod Kit With Fluid Head

https://www.dccameras.com.au/manfrotto-mk290xta3-2w-xtra-aluminium-3-section-tripod-kit-with-fluid-head.html

Hopefully, it will work well. The max height is 170 but I'll find a solution:)

Thank you very much for your advice!

[Tsan]

How did it all work out? Do you think the tripod adapter that comes with the bins needs to be changed with something more sturdy?

[Finski]

I have the same binos and need a tripod, anyone know of some cheaper options?

[tmz]

The mount that comes with these are rubbish

Cheers, tm

[COSMOSLOVER]

It all worked out well:) Had a chance to view the "super blue blood" moon in the bush in Yallingup. What a sight it was! The night sky was unbelievable to say the least. In summary, I'm happy with binoculars and tripod but will be changing the tripod mount to a more sturdy aluminium one!

Sorry no idea about cheaper options I wanted something on a budget as well but ended up spending quite a bit more...:shrug:

[FI93]

I have a crook neck that grinds after too much looking up bino 's.
There are plenty on mirror mounts on the internet where you look DOWN while sitting in a nice comfy chair.
The beauty is that even small children can look without discomfort, standing on ladders/chair etc or being held in dads arms.
I made one and the kids love it.;););)

[COSMOSLOVER]

Thank you for a great idea Norm!:)