Is this manfrotto good for my needs?

[Simko]

Hey everyone,s ince schools out im looking at snatching up some gear, (note my other posts on bags etc.)

Ive locally found a used manfrotto tripod,
as the ad explains it:

Manfrotto
745B Tripod/Head
$275

Im guesssing its this: http://www.videomaker.com/article/12717/

heres a picture of the actual unit, so i think my kit idea was wrong
http://img1.classistatic.com/cps/l/kj/09/4/13/426/r1/1043jh6_20.jpeg
I plan on getting a 200mm zoom lens for my canon rebel, Do you think this tripod will suit my needs? im an amateur planning on doing some nature photography,

if this is a good tripod for me, what should i be looking at when buying a used tripod? or is this a recipe for disaster already?

[Simko]

turns out the head is a 701rc

[Mark_48]

It's basically fluid head for a video camera. The fluid head allows smooth panning and tilting of a video camera, something you don't really need for a DSLR. While it would work, you might be better off with a head that's more specifically designed for still camera use. Also $275 seems a little high for a used tripod, although the fluid head may justify it.

Here's a new Manfrotto tripod/head from B&H that's got a 3 way pan/tilt head. Not sure how the US dollars correspond with CDN.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/505849-REG/Manfrotto_by_Bogen_Imaging_055XPROB_804RC2_055XPRO B_Tripod_Legs_Black_.html

There are plenty of different ones to choose from and the above is just an example and not neccessarily one I particularly recommend.

There are other styles of heads available also, such as a ballhead.
Manfrotto ballheads....
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=search&A=search&Q=&ci=0&sb=bs%2Cupper%28ds%29&sq=asc&sortDrop=Brand%3A+A+to+Z&ac=&bsi=&bhs=t&ci=140&shs=&at=Brand_Manfrotto+by+Bogen+Imaging&basicSubmit=Submit+Query

The choice between a pan/tilt and a ballhead is a decision you make based on what works best for you. If you can go to a camera shop and play around with a few that would be recommended.

Also look for a head that has a quick release (QR) plate which makes it easy to attach and remove your camera.

Give the Manfrotto configurator a try and see what it suggests...
http://www.manfrotto.com/Jahia/site/manfrotto/cache/offonce/pid/4482

[GoneTomorrow]

I prefer the simplicity of the ball heads (I have a 725b), one knob to free the mount, no assortment of knobs and handles to adjust. There is however a small risk with ball heads, when you free the head up, the tension is non-existent (very loose, only gravity) and if you don't have good grip on the camera, it can tip the tripod.

[Rhys]

I have the Manfrotto/Bogen 3021BN with a ProMaster/Hoya 3D head. It's about the best tripod I've ever had. I hardly ever use a tripod though but when I do, it's rock steady.

[kgosden]

For $50-100 more you could get into a nice new carbon fiber tripod. I think $275 is a bit high.

[Simko]

done deal folks, ill skip this one and keep walking around