OConnor 35L vs Sachtler Speed Lock CF HD?

[Peter Richardson]

I have narrowed my tripod search down to these two (with a 1030HD sitting on top). I have some experience with the 35L's and, for the most part, I liked them. Anyone have experience with both sticks and care to comment? Thanks!

Peter

[Frank Mirbach]

I can only say I´ve been working with heavy duty Sachtler´s for years now and those things never let me down on any shoot. Don´t know about O´Connor, but you can´t do wrong with a Sachtler.

[mdo]

I'm going to be buying the Sachtler Speed Lock CF, which can be seen HERE. (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/201202-REG/Sachtler_5586_Speed_Lock_CF_Carbon_Fiber.html)

Why do you want to go with the HD ("heavy duty") -- it holds 209 pounds. The non-HD one holds 88 pounds. Seems like that should be enough, although it is only $400 more for the HD.

My brother, who does freelance work in DC, swears by the Speed Lock. The one-lever release per leg apparently makes a big difference. I haven't used it, but I'm looking forward to it.

[Ken Willinger]

The speed lock Sachtlers are great. I have both the light and the heavy set. The HD is great for extra stability in extreme situations (high wind etc.) but I use the regular set on a daily basis as it's a lot lighter to haul around. The one-lever release changed my life! It's so easy...you will love it.

[Jim McKinney]

Lighter is nice. Until the day you really wish you had heavy duty.

[mdo]

What would be some examples of conditions were the heavy duty model would make sense. Just weather-related scenarios like high wind?

[Peter Richardson]

Thanks for the great feedback guys. Looks like the regular Speed locks would be fine. I'm trying to get a set here in Portland to try out, but will be down in LA this week, so maybe I'll do some head to head (no pun intended) there. The OConnors, from memory, are pretty great in terms of sheer speed, but all the little teeth on the legs seem like they could gum up easily. HOw is stiction with the Sachtlers?

Peter