Well, I don't know how many layers of carbon RRS is using (normally it's 8 layers) but Leofoto is using 10 layers of carbon what let them build slightly thinner legs to reach the same stability as thicker 8 layers of carbon! By the way you can also buy longer legs at Leofoto e.g. LM-324CL which will need also a separate Leveling Base (LB-75S) or the LS-324CL with the Leveling Base LB-60N. I would trust Leofoto even more than RRS despite being a Chinese company! Hudson Henry is recommending Leofoto tripods!
Thank you, Richard! As you say, it really depends on how one will use a tripod. No doubt a tripod like the RRS is superior. But what about someone that travels often by air, or takes long hikes to get to that ideal spot for landscapes, or just old like me? 🙂 Photographic budget is indeed important, but in reality, $1300 is not a lot compared to what many cameras and lenses cost these days. Personally if I have the choice of a product manufactured locally, or in China, I chose local! Customer service is also important. I know RRS has great support and I've hear Leofoto is also very good. Question, how easy is it to access that leveling head lock underneath like that? Is the Versa larger apex worthwhile over the smaller apex version? (ultralight)
I find that the knob underneath the apex is very easy to access. You have to be OK with the tripod not going all the was to the ground though. I have used the Series 2 with the smaller apex. I didn't like the leveling base being on top of the apex vs inside and beneath the apex. It's a personal choice. For very long exposures, I feel that the closer the camera is to the apex the better.
I think you're comparing apples to oranges with those two Richard. I have that same Leofoto ultra light tripod(Ranger 284) with their leveling base and in windy locations have had to run back to the car to swap it with my bigger 6lb. Robus tripod. I purchased it with the intent of the lighter weight for hiking but It can't seem to handle much wind or a 70-200 2.8. I still use it in controlled environments but have lost confidence in real world scenarios. I think the sweet spot for me would be something in the 4lb. range perhaps the Robus 5560 with the Acratech head might fit the bill.
I agree with your thoughts on these 2 tripods and should have mentioned, that I purchased the Leofoto for travel but prefer the stability of the RRS series 3.
