Benbo Trekker MK3 Tripod

Product Information

It has to be said that these tripods are more flexibile than any other kind and they do allow you to take pictures that would otherwise not be possible. Everyone needs a good tripod and head combo. I’ve spent some time lately with the Benbo Trekker MK3 tripod. In this review you’ll find my impressions of this kit, what it can do for you, and what kind of photographer that I think the Trekker MK3 is built for. The Benbo's are not bad,for natural history work they're excellent as they're so versatile in the number of positions you can set them up in. The tubular aluminium construction of the legs offers the best possible combination of weight and rigidity. Each leg can be independently positioned, made possible by the tripods unique, highly flexible main joint, which enables each leg to swing through a complete 360 degrees (see picture). The centre column can also be swung through 360 degrees, producing a combination that allows the camera to be positioned at almost any point.

Lenses – The lens has dust inside that may affect images. The rubber zoom/focus ring is coming away from the barrel of the lens.Right out of the box you’ll notice that the Trekker MK3 is a different kind of tripod. It doesn’t have the traditional joints on the tripod legs with a standard shaft extending up the middle. Instead, the Trekker MK3 utilizes a central pivot point, on which all legs and the supporting arm rotate. While this tripod is a decent performer, it took some time getting used to the set up. It is not a tripod for the impatient.

The smaller Trekker will suffice if you only use a reasonibly small and light camera/lens combination but it isn't really man enough for the bigger heavier lenses from 300mm upwards IMO. It's difficult to say if a Benbo will meet your needs as it really depends on the type of photography you do,the weight of your equipment and your budget. I used the Mk 1 version for a number of years,mainly with a 400mm lens,it served me well and I was always quite happy with it.

Condition guide

This pivot point allows for some unique setups. When I started working with the Trekker MK3, I immediately recognized the usefulness of the this pivot point in getting shots from a very low point of view. Some tripods out there allow you to remove the center support post for mounting your camera and position it on the tripod in a horizontal manner, which helps you to get a low point of view. With the Trekker MK3, all you have to do is rotate the camera support post on the pivot point and you can be at ground level. If you shoot a lot of macro things, you have probably already figured out that this would be a good tripod for getting the right angles on your low-level macro. For the most part, I was pleased the flexibility of adjustments using the horizontal arm for macro work. The Benbo Compact Trekker Tripod is a compact, lightweight version of the Classic No1 aluminium tripod and is ideal for use where the tripod needs to be carried a greater distance. The updated leg head castings allow the legs to be folded compactly when transporting the tripod. Features tubular aluminium legs which offers the best combination of weight and rigidity possible. The flexibility of the leg joint mechanism combined with the ability to swing the centre column through 180 degrees, this allows the camera to be positioned at almost any point relative to the tripod legs. A hook at the bottom of the centre column allows a camera bag or sandbag to be attached when greater stability is required.

Lenses – Should have no marks on the elements andoptically clear. There may be light dust present that will not effect theimagery. At 4.4 lbs, the Trekker MK3 is not what I would call lightweight, but the included carry case is helpful for extended treks with the tripod. Still yet, with pricier carbon fiber models available in the 2 lbs range, the Trekker MK3 may not be the right fit for those looking for portability as a key feature. Whether used in the standard configuration with a vertical centre column, down at ground level with legs splayed out, or with one of the legs pointing upward finding support from a tree or wall, Benbo tripods can always be relied upon to give complete stability. So to summarise,I'd say the Mk 1 is pretty good,the trekker is a bit too light and flimsy.If budget allows a sturdy tripod by Gitzo or Manfrotto would be a better option,IMO. The big advantage for the Benbo Trekker MK3 is the ability to get different angles and move into unique shooting positions that may not be available with other tripods. If you just need to stabilize your camera, the Trekker MK3 may be a bit overkill on its features and functionality. ConclusionCameras – LCD screen is heavily worn either by de-lamination or has scratches to it. Rubber grips are starting to come away from the body. But then I HAVE had it for over 20 years and used it for photography and video on every continent except Antarctica. The biggest weakness of the Trekker MK3 for me was the head. The MK3 includes a small ball head, which is nice that it’s included, and certainly better than what you get out of a el-cheapo tripod; however, it’s just not up to snuff for fine tuning your composition. Since I saw the MK3 as a potentially great little macro tripod, I was disappointed with such a weak head which really doesn’t offer the fine tuning that I expected from it. Our used products are subject to wear and tear in comparison to brand new products. This also applies to accessories that are supplied with the camera including batteries which may have a lower optimum performance level/life expectancy. I decided to upgrade to a Gitzo carbon fibre model and I must say the Gitzo is in a different league,not really any lighter than the Benbo Mk. 1 but it's considerably more stable.

Additionally, getting the pivot point tight enough can be deceptive at times. You are generally going to be fine with a snug turn of the handle while shooting upright. However, when you need to hit odd angles that really leverage the pivot point, you have to be ready to crank down on the pivot handle. I was a little disappointed that this wasn’t as smooth of an operation as it should have been. The Benbo Trekker MK3 tripod I tested here was a kit that comes with the Benbo compact ball head for immediate use right out of the box. Additionally, you get a vinyl carry case that features a carry handle/shoulder sling and is secured by a zipper. Benbo Trekker MK3 Key Specs I've got both the Benbo Trekker and the Benbo Mk 1 although they don't get a great deal of use since upgrading to a Gitzo.