Benro Tripster 1 Series Carbon Fiber Travel Tripod & Monopod Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Benro Tripster 1 Series is a versatile reverse-folding travel tripod designed for photographers requiring stability and portability. This model, constructed from carbon fiber, is suitable for a range of cameras from small lightweight models to full-frame DSLRs. It features a unique design that allows for conversion into a full-size monopod, enhancing its utility in various shooting environments. A carrying bag is included for convenient transport.

Product Features

• Lightweight Carbon Fiber Construction: The tripod legs are made from carbon fiber, offering high strength while maintaining a low weight for easy travel.
• Reverse-Folding Design: Legs fold 180 degrees upwards, allowing the tripod to collapse into a compact size of 14.2 inches for convenient storage and transport.
• High Load Capacity: Supports camera gear up to 18 lbs, accommodating full-frame DSLRs, mirrorless systems, and telephoto lenses.
• Monopod Conversion: One of the tripod legs can be detached and combined with the center column to form a full-size monopod.
• Arca-Swiss Style Ball Head: Equipped with a BGD0 double action ball head featuring an Arca-Swiss quick release plate for secure and fast camera attachment.
• Accessory Mount: A 1/4"-20 accessory mount is located on the tripod shoulder for attaching additional equipment.
• Rubber Twist Locks: High-performance rubber twist locks with anti-rotation legs ensure fast and secure leg extension and retraction.
• Three Leg Positions: Each leg can be independently positioned at three different angles to adapt to uneven terrain.
• Adjustable Center Column: A two-stage adjustable center column provides additional height and flexibility.
• Interchangeable Feet: Rubber feet can be replaced with included spiked feet for enhanced stability on soft or uneven surfaces.
• Integrated Bubble Level: The ball head includes a bubble level to assist in achieving level horizons and preventing uneven pans.

Setup

1. Unfolding the Tripod:

   Grasp the tripod firmly and extend the legs downwards from their reverse-folded position. Ensure all leg sections are fully extended and locked into place using the rubber twist locks.

   

   Image: The Benro Tripster tripod shown in its compact, reverse-folded configuration, ready for transport.
2. Adjusting Leg Angles:

   Press the leg angle adjustment lock located at the top of each leg. Position each leg independently to one of the three available angles to achieve stability on various terrains. Release the lock to secure the leg in position.

   

   Image: A close-up view of the tripod's leg hinge, highlighting the leg angle adjustment mechanism for adapting to uneven surfaces.
3. Extending Leg Sections:

   Twist the rubber twist locks on each leg section counter-clockwise to loosen, extend the leg to the desired height, and then twist clockwise to tighten and secure. Repeat for all leg sections.

   

   Image: The Benro Tripster tripod fully set up and extended, demonstrating its maximum height and stability.

4. Attaching the Camera:

   Ensure the Arca-Swiss quick release plate is securely attached to your camera's 1/4"-20 tripod socket. Open the quick release clamp on the ball head, slide the plate with the camera into the clamp, and tighten the clamp securely.

Operating Instructions

Ball Head Operation

The included BGD0 double action ball head provides precise control over camera positioning.

• Ball Lock: Use the main knob to loosen or tighten the ball, allowing for free movement or secure locking of the camera angle.
• Pan Lock: A separate knob controls the panning motion, enabling smooth 360-degree rotation for panoramas. The graduated pan scale assists in precise alignment.
• Friction Control: Adjust the friction of the ball movement to match the weight of your camera setup, preventing sudden drops when the ball lock is loosened.
• 90-Degree Notch: The ball head features a 90-degree notch, allowing for quick switching to portrait orientation.
• Integrated Bubble Level: Use the built-in bubble level on the quick release plate to ensure your camera is perfectly level.

Image: A detailed view of the BGD0 ball head, showing the ball lock, pan lock, and friction control knobs for precise camera adjustments.

Center Column Adjustment

The two-stage center column can be extended for additional height. Loosen the collar at the base of the center column, extend to the desired height, and tighten the collar to secure. For low-angle shots, the center column can be inverted or removed entirely.

Monopod Conversion

The Benro Tripster tripod can be easily converted into a full-size monopod for situations requiring greater mobility or when a full tripod is not feasible.

1. Detach a Leg: Locate the leg with the foam grip. Unscrew this leg from the tripod shoulder by twisting it counter-clockwise.
2. Remove Center Column: Loosen the center column locking collar and pull the center column completely out of the tripod chassis.
3. Combine Components: Screw the detached leg onto the bottom of the center column. The ball head remains attached to the top of the center column.
4. Extend Monopod: Extend the monopod to the desired height using the twist locks on the leg sections.

Image: The Benro Tripster shown configured as a monopod, demonstrating its alternative use for portable camera support.

Stability and Terrain Adjustment

• Weight Hook: A weight hook is located at the bottom of the center column. Hang a bag or other weight from this hook to increase the tripod's stability, especially in windy conditions or when using heavy camera setups.
• Interchangeable Spiked Feet: For enhanced grip on soft ground, ice, or uneven surfaces, the standard rubber feet can be unscrewed and replaced with the included spiked feet.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: After use, especially in dusty, sandy, or wet environments, wipe down the tripod legs and joints with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
• Lubrication: Periodically check the twist locks and leg mechanisms. If they become stiff, a small amount of silicone-based lubricant can be applied.
• Storage: Store the tripod in its included carrying bag in a dry, cool place to prevent dust accumulation and prolong its lifespan.

Troubleshooting

• Legs not extending/retracting smoothly: Ensure twist locks are fully loosened. Clean any debris from the leg sections and apply a small amount of silicone lubricant if necessary.
• Tripod instability: Verify all leg sections and angle locks are securely tightened. Ensure the weight hook is utilized if additional stability is required. Check that the camera is properly mounted on the quick release plate.
• Ball head movement issues: Check the ball lock, pan lock, and friction control knobs to ensure they are adjusted correctly. Clean any dust or grit from the ball head mechanism.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

The Benro Tripster 1 Series Tripod comes with a standard limited warranty of 3 years from the date of purchase for the original owner. If the product is registered online, the warranty is extended by an additional 2 years, totaling 5 years in applicable regions. For further support, please refer to the official Benro website or contact customer service.

Visit the Benro Store for more information.

Product Overview Video