Flip-lock vs twist-lock on tripod legs - opinions?

Musetek

Hi all. I have the Bogen 3021B Pro tripod, which has the flip-lock type locks on the legs. They do loosen with use, and I tighten as needed (with the provided tool).

I'm not convinced it's the steadiest platform out there, since I've had it set up on flat, solid surfaces, using a wireless shutter remote, and actually watched the whole thing - camera and all - vibrate with every shutter release. Now obviously using Mirror Up helps with that, but it makes me wonder if I need a new tripod. It certainly wasn't the most expensive set of legs out there (not including CF), but it was far from the cheapest. I.E. I think I'm justified in expecting better performance.

My question is: do you have a preference for flip-lock vs twist-lock, in terms of stability of the platform? Or do you believe this particular variable shouldn't be a factor in stability (in other words, it's just my specific tripod)?

Interested & grateful for all replies. :thumb

Dan7312

I've had both snap lock and twist lock tripods. I prefer the twist lock, but that is really just a personal preference. The stability of the tripod depends on its overall design and construction. Ages and ages ago I had a Linhof tripod that had snap locks and is was solid as a rock.

With snap locks it's easier to tell if your legs are properly locked. You can't check a twist lock by just looking, you have to give it a twist.

Snap locks are noisier than twist locks, if that's important to you.

Even on a solid tripod I've found that I need to use both mirror lockup and a cable release to do macro, i.e. 1:1, images, otherwise there is some shake. Also the more you extend the center column the more shake you will get.

All things being equal I think most people will say carbon fiber will shake less than aluminum. I also think that is true, but I've not done a direct comparison to see if that is the case.

Musetek wrote: »

Hi all. I have the Bogen 3021B Pro tripod, which has the flip-lock type locks on the legs. They do loosen with use, and I tighten as needed (with the provided tool).


Interested & grateful for all replies.

eoren1

I had a set of flip locks snap off in super cold weather and also caught my finger in them once...it's been twist locks ever since

pathfinder

Whem it comes to tripods, bigger and heavier is better I think. Less fun to carry, though.

I own both flip lock tripods, and twist lock tripods, and chose which to use on other basis, i.e.: weight, Aluminum versus carbon fibre. Carbon fibre is a lot more friendly in cold weather. Aluminum is durable in the back of a pick up truck.

Musetek

Thanks for the responses, guys.

The noise factor is definitely something to think about, although if you're careful you can mitigate that to some degree. If I'm setting up to shoot wildlife, I usually extend the legs before I move away form the car - makes for a more awkward carry, but is less traumatic to the beasties.

I try to avoid the center column. I have a tripod that, legs fully extended with camera mounted, is about as tall as I can manage (and sometimes I'm on tiptoes trying to see dials etc.) so generally no need for the central column. But yeah, it doesn't help with stability.

Roger that on the nipped fingers! Does turning the air blue count as a chromatic aberration?!

So what I'm hearing is: flip vs twist shouldn't make any difference in stability, and CF may perform better (less shake) than aluminium. Agree / disagree? Any other comments?

Art Scott

eoren1 wrote: »

I had a set of flip locks snap off in super cold weather and also caught my finger in them once...it's been twist locks ever since

as to the flip lock over twist lock...really has no bearing on stability.....a really good flip lock will be made of good metal...i am a fan of twist locks...as I found that everytime I closed the flip locks they grab the web of which ever hand i was closing with and they scared the crap out of wildlife, so I cound I was carrying it extended and I hated that...they also make lots of racket in churches...so I have sworn them off and will stay with twist locks...

for some reason I think Manfrotto builds the 3021 Pro to pinch the hand that locks it....I no mine did it really well everytime I used it.......

cab.in.boston

Flip locks also have the possibility of catching on camera straps, clothing, tree branches, etc, as you're walking. Maybe not the most important factor, but you don't want to accidentally set down your camera bag near your tripod and inadvertently hook a strap over the lock, pulling down the pod. Again, not the deciding factor, but something to think about. I have twist locks on my Giottos legs, and I like that I can operate them easily with or without gloves, no pinchies, no problems. But in general I think that it's personal preference. Used with proper technique, either type of lock will be secure.