Review - Takahashi VB Metal Tripod

The Takahashi VB Metal Tripod is a portable high-quality astronomical tripod [Image Credit: Takahashi].

Specifications

Structure:  Aluminum

Height:  22.4 in - 37.2 in [57.0 cm - 94.5 cm]

Weight:  ~ 6.2 lb [2.8 kg]

Minimum Length:  24.4 in [62.0 cm]

Diameter:  2.85 in [7.24 cm]

Tripod Connectivity:  via optional 3/8"-16 Camera Stand

Loading Capacity:  ~ 42.8 lb [19.4 kg]

Introduction

Every now and then there's a moment that occurs while I'm observing with my telescope that makes me say the "shucks" word.  Usually, it's right after I've accidentally bumped my rig while transferring from one side of the telescope to another.  You know how it goes when it's late and you're tired and you think to yourself: "gee, I could simultaneously move both the chair and myself over to that spot rather than move each individually!" Sometimes that works out fine - other times, not so much.

I've actually never had the equipment fall over, and nothing's ever been damaged, it's just mentally unnerving to picture something like that happening, especially if the possibility exists.

Bumping the rig wouldn't really be an issue if I could spread the Gitzo GT3531 tripod's legs out a few more degrees [say 5° - 10°] to centralize the weight distribution.  But since I can't, I've thought about what to do to make the Takahashi Teegul mount more stable for those unfortunate bumps.

One idea was to use a very nice Takahashi metal tripod they've made for years, but it's larger and heavier than what I need for my FSQ-85ED.  As luck would have it, I was perusing the Takahashi Japan website when I came across a bulletin saying they were about to introduce a smaller model - the Takahashi VB Metal Tripod.

Design

The Takahashi VB Metal Tripod is intended for use with some of the lighter Takahashi mounts like the EM-11, P-2, and Teegul, or with any telescope mount that accepts a 1/4"-20 or 3/8"-16 attachment screw. Replacing the standard PM-1 telescope mount adapter with either of the optional 1/4"-20 or 3/8"-16 Camera Stands enables such usage, and is accomplished by removing three 1/4"-20 screws from the PM-1 base, removing the base, adding the chosen Camera Stand, and then reinserting the 1/4"-20 screws. If at some point you intend to use both Camera Stand sizes, a more cost-effective way of doing this would be to buy the larger 3/8"-16 Camera Stand for $79 and then separately buy the Gitzo 1/4-20" & 3/8"-16 Reversible Tripod Screw for $15 that interchanges both thread sizes.

A ratchet mechanism allows the selection of four leg angle settings based on the load type you've chosen: narrow, narrow-mid, mid-wide, and wide. Most photographic tripods come with only three leg angle settings, which is why I'll now be using my excellent Gitzo GT3531 tripod exclusively for photography.

The tripod legs have a width of 36mm and can operate in two stages, collapsed [for tabletop use] or extended [for ground-level use]. The upper legs are fitted with thick soft-touch rubber foam similar to the type used on the TeleVue TelePod Mount, while the telescoping sections have printed "tick" settings to accurately measure out individual lengths. Height adjustments are made by loosening and tightening a compression locking system on each leg.

Two items included with the tripod are a dedicated carrying bag and an accessory support pouch.

The design of the bag is specific to the VB Metal Tripod. Internally padded, it has interior soft velcro straps to fasten around the tripod to hold it in place, and a base that is solid to keep the legs from getting mashed up if packed tightly.

Although the accessory support pouch can be filled with heavier items to provide added stability on uneven terrain or during windy conditions, I primarily use it as a convenient place to store visual accessory caps and cases for eyepieces, barlows, and filters rather than putting them back inside the Pelican 1600 Protector case used to transport the equipment. All of the accessory pieces are placed inside a transparent zip lock plastic bag to prevent debris like dust and leaves from blowing on them during use.

Modifications

Once I received the tripod, it became evident that it was missing a feature that I was accustomed to with the Gitzo. The VB Metal Tripod doesn't have a level to properly set its balance. I've been looking for a good add-on but haven't found one yet that I really like well enough to purchase, and will provide an update once I do.

I also place three Bierfilzl Merino Wool Felt Round Coasters under each tripod leg to dampen out vibrations from the ground and to also keep the leg bases from getting scratched.

Observing

When used with the Takahashi Teegul Mount v2 w/ Lapides Modification and FSQ-85ED, everything makes for an ideal quick set-up/break-down observing system [photos coming soon].

Alternatives

It's really a matter of personal preference when it comes to selecting other tripods on the market today. The Gitzo GT3531 would work well with the Teegul Mount when using a smaller telescope like the Takahashi FS-60CB.

I'm going to say that I spent a considerable amount of time weighing the available options and bought the best one that I could identify for my mount - and it's the Takahashi VB Metal Tripod.

Interestingly enough, Takahashi America informed me that they are not, for the time being, going to import and distribute this model. They were also nice enough to introduce me to Astro Hutech, a California based company that is offering it here in the United States. I had a great experience buying from them, and highly recommend you do as well if this is the tripod for you.

Priced ~ $525 USD [plus $79 for the 3/8"-16 Camera Stand].