In a message dated 8/12/2004 10:03:48 PM Eastern Standard Time,
 writes:
I have tolerated my Bogen tripod with all of its "idiot-syncrasies" for 16
years.  It's time for a new one.  Any suggestions for anything better out
there?  I am not that concerned about weight.  I am more concerned about
stability supporting a Leica in the wind and also durability and
reliability.  Thanks.

Gene
Gene,
 I think I have the same Bogen tripod, which seems always on the verge of a
breakdown (when its not causing me to be on the verge of a breakdown!). As
someone calls a good bird on the dike at X location, and I try quickly to get get
my scope out and set up, invariably a leg tries to escape its socket, or bends
at an angle its not supposed to bend at, etc. It is infuriating! And don't
get me started on those horrible twist-and-lock black knobs, on the legs, of
dubious design, whose small set screws are forever coming loose.

SO having said all that, please keep us posted here for suggestions for a
replacement, as I'm sure many of us can and will benefit!

Rick Sussman
Ashton,MD