Is The New Manfrotto 190XB As Good As The Old 3001BD?
In my 10/10/07 entry I informed you that Manfrotto had redesigned their popular 3001BD midweight tripod and given it a couple of new model numbers, the 190XB (black) and 190XV (green). I had a chance to spend some time at The Outdoorsmans this weekend and in the traditional Nelson process of upgrading gear and passing the old gear on to the next generation, I purchased the new Manfrotto 190XV.
In accordance with the plan, I handed my 3001BD down to Cooper Nelson who in turn handed his even older 3001 down to Ty Nelson. Beau Nelson, the youngest plan participant pretty much got screwed on the deal all the way around since his older brother had nothing to pass down to him.
In accordance with the plan, I handed my 3001BD down to Cooper Nelson who in turn handed his even older 3001 down to Ty Nelson. Beau Nelson, the youngest plan participant pretty much got screwed on the deal all the way around since his older brother had nothing to pass down to him.
This process of handing gear down to the next, younger generation can be complicated but basically keeps the gear acquisition and evaluation process moving forward, properly equips the kids (and hooks them on the gear treadmill ensuring the future of our gear intensive dynasty) and of course helps the economy. You see, it isn’t about getting the King the latest and greatest gear on the market so he can show off to his colleagues, it is about giving really. It is about selfless, philanthropic, altruistic acts that contribute to the community and the greater good. The genius of the system is that the woman folk of the clan have to recognize, begrudgingly, the efficiency of the program, which mitigates their natural drive to complain about the money spent on new gear upgrades by plan administrators.
When you step back and look at it, the plan really does make a lot of sense. Besides, landscaping, which is where the money would have been spent, is completely over rated and leads to chores and chores as everyone knows leads to disharmony in the familial unit.
When you step back and look at it, the plan really does make a lot of sense. Besides, landscaping, which is where the money would have been spent, is completely over rated and leads to chores and chores as everyone knows leads to disharmony in the familial unit.
Sorry, I digress. As I predicted, the new Manfrotto 190XV tripod is just as good as the old model 3001BD. Maybe even a little better. The XV is a dark green which is kind of cool and when compared to its predecessor, it seems to be a touch more slender all the way around. As much as I hate change simply for the sake of changing, I proclaim this new model my new choice for a mid-weight tripod. It is perfect for carrying in the truck or Ranger and even on short humps. However, anything longer and you have to go to the Outdoorsmans Tripod with their Lightweight Pistol Grip Head. There simply is not anything else on the market that performs as well in as light a package. If you are a hardcore hunter that spends a lot of time glassing, this is the best set up.
The Outdoorsmans has come up with a few new pieces that work with their system. There is the Dual Mount which holds both your spotting scope or range finder and binos and a Rifle Rest. Both clip in easily and securely to the tripod head. The other thing I learned while I was there is that Leica is bringing out a new Televid 82mm Spotting Scope that is supposed to be the best thing since whipped cream. You better call them and put your name on the list. They are going to be popular.
I am sure you can figure out a way to make all that fit in a Christmas stocking.
Thanks.
I am sure you can figure out a way to make all that fit in a Christmas stocking.
Thanks.
Wade Nelson
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