The other day I was noticing that, as I put weight on my bogen 3221 tripod (*ist D, Sigma 300/4 and 1.4x TC and StudioBall QR) one of the upper leg sections was loose. The tripod was sinking below me. So I went home, got a socket wrench and tightened the locking mechanism. Well, after a turn or two I heard a loud "POP!" and that was the end of that. The clamp thingy had cracked. Strangely enough, the tripod still holds the camera and lens without moving, but I can't put pressure on it to steady it.
So I bought a new tripod. A 3021B Pro. While I was at it, I ordered the foam leg protector things as well. Oh, and since I was in a money spending mood I ordered a 681B Monopod with 3232 swivel head. Oh and I needed a QR base plate for the monopod too so I bought a StudioBall QR base. And then I remembered that Kirk had new QR plates for the D so I got one of those too (for the D-BG1 to be exact). The tripod, monopod and accessories arrived in a day or two and I am more than happy with them. I've never used a monopod before so it is taking some getting used to, but so far so good. I am going to the zoo Sunday and it will get a workout there. As for the foam tripod leg things, well, the tripod is already padded so I don't need them. So they are for sale: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=162680&is=REG Bogen 3430 Tripod Leg Protectors fits 3011, 3021 and 3401 Tripods. I'm sure they will fit any tripod with the same upper leg section dimensions as those indicated. Brand new, never used, but not in original packaging US$25.00 plus shipping. International is fine too. Christian
