Ive been shooting with my D850 for years and usually my old Gitzo is a tank but Im heading to the Dolomites in three weeks and realized my current travel tripod is a total joke for this weight. I tried testing it with my 70-200mm f/2.8 lens and the vibrations are just terrible even with the timer on. Its weird because I thought it would hold up but the center column is just too flimsy for a full-frame pro setup like this. I need something carbon fiber that actually packs down small but wont tip over in a light breeze. Looking to spend maybe $600 tops. What are you guys using for heavy Nikon rigs when you have to hike?
Unfortunately, travel pods are often flimsy for a D850. Had issues with movement until trying the Feisol Tournament CT-3442 Carbon Fiber Tripod. No center column is key for reducing that torsional flex.
Dolomites will be amazing! To keep that D850 steady without breaking the bank, check out The Center Column website for real lab tests on stiffness. These are fantastic budget-friendly beasts with great torsional rigidity: