Best Survey Tripods: 2021

best survey tripods 2021

A sturdy tripod is an indispensable tool for construction, surveying, and any other task that requires precise measurements. When used in surveying, a tripod can support a theodolite, level, or total station. Investing in a heavy duty tripod is essential for professionals, and this survey equipment is the top of the line.

Nedo 210710 - Industrial Line Elevating Tripod

This survey tripod is specifically intended for use with 3D laser scanners. Its versatile design allows a laser scanner to be mounted at either the top of bottom, and it boasts a range of other features, such as:

5mm Allen key
Four 1m rack elements
5/8" to 3/8" adapter
Lightweight, 20 lb. design

With its one year manufacturers warranty and rugged construction, this tripod is perfect for surveyors who need a stable foundation for their laser scanner.

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Seco 90550 - Tri-Max Standard Quick Clamp Tripod

The Seco 90550 - Tri-Max Standard Quick Clamp Tripod is at the top of the class for heavy duty tripod equipment. Designed to resist vibration and creeping, this unit also features the following:

Precision turned head
Fully extended height of 71”
Resistance to wind and humidity
Hinge spindle design

The most notable feature of this tripod, though, is its signature quick clamp—allowing the user to easily set it up, adjust it, and retract it.

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Nedo 210683-185 - Extra Heavy-Duty Elevating Tripod

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Elevating tripods are one of the most useful pieces of survey equipment you’ll find, with a mechanism that allows heavy duty attachments to easily be adjusted and lifted. The Nedo 210683-185 - Extra Heavy-Duty Elevating Tripod offers this and other benefits, too:

Aluminum quick release covers
All terrain usability
Fully extended height of 119”
19 lb. weight

These features, as well as the unit’s double telescopes, make it an ideal addition to any survey’s toolbox.

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Dutch Hill Surveyors Tripod with Composite Head GT2000

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With a foot point made of stainless steel and legs made of composite fiberglass, the Dutch Hill Surveyors Tripod with Composite Head GT2000 is built to perform. Its other features include:

Parts that are mechanically fastened
100 lb. capacity rating
Quick lock clamp on legs
Extendable wide frame design

Weighing in at just 12 lbs., this unit is a lightweight and simple tripod that’s sturdy and rugged, nonetheless.

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Bosch Aluminum Contractors Tripod BT160

If simplicity is what you seek, the Bosch Aluminum Contractors Tripod BT160 is the tool for you. This small, lightweight, and affordable tripod features the following specifications:

38” when retracted
63” when expanded
Quick clamps on legs
5/8" x 11 base thread size

A durable aluminum construction further solidifies this as a high quality heavy duty tripod. Add this to your survey equipment for easy and accurate performance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need a survey tripod?

best survey tripods 2021

A surveying tripod is essential for a few reasons. If you plan to use devices such as lasers, levels, or theodolites, a tripod is imperative for stabilizing the instrument.

What does a surveying tripod do?

When used in conjunction with surveying tools, a tripod resists vibration to stabilize the tool and ensure accuracy of the measurements taken.

How do you ensure a surveying tripod is level?

Rather than fully extending its legs during setup, extend them partially and then adjust as needed until the bubble level is even.

How is a surveying tripod different than other tripods?

While other types of tripods—for example, camera tripods—may be able to hold a tool, surveying tripods are specially designed to withstand the elements and stabilize heavy attachments.

How do I choose the right surveying tripod?

Finding the right survey tripod depends on what your unique needs are, but the most important factors to consider are weight capacity, extension height, and resistance to the elements.

Heavy Duty Tripods for Surveying

In order to get the job done right, you need the right tools at your disposal. This is why it’s so important to invest in a surveying tripod that is durable, versatile, and suited to your needs. These five options are the best you can find.

Engineer Supply specializes in providing professional grade equipment and accessories for engineers, surveyors, and construction professionals. With a vast inventory to browse, you are sure to find whatever you are looking for. Call (800) 591-8907 to learn more.