Sigma Tripod Socket TS-81 Availability Announced

From Sigma:

We are pleased to announce the availability of TRIPOD SOCKET TS-81 that is the optional lens foot which can be attached to the SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports. It is compatible with the Arca Swiss quick release plate and the clamp. The deliberately designed length of its rail provides the flexibility to adjust the center of gravity making it balance perfectly, even while zooming or using accessories, such as a tele converter and battery pack. Consideration has been given to the portability and transportation of the lens when Tripod Socket TS-81 is attached. The lens hood can still be reversed and the lens stored in its original padded case, even with the Tripod Socket TS-81 attached. Incorporated into the Tripod Socket are safety stopper screws to prevent the lens from falling. There are 2 sizes of screw holes, 1/4 and 3/8, making it compatible with tripods other than Arca Swiss, too. When it is compared to the supplied tripod socket, it offers more space between the lens and device, and the change of grip has improved the usage as a handle for carrying.

 
That last line addresses what I think is a significant design problem with the supplied tripod foot on this lens. While the standard foot is robust and low profile, the second joints of my medium-sized fingers do not fit through the low clearance foot, making it very difficult to carry this lens via the tripod foot. For the same reason, it is also difficult to control the lens by the foot while using a monopod or tripod. While I have not yet used the TS-81, I really like the concept. I previously asked for such a foot as a standard feature.

Note that this is not the announcement of a new product; the TS-81 was already announced. Sigma is saying that it is now available. However, we are not finding it available at retailers, even for preorder. We'll let you know when it shows up.

Posted: 5/15/2015 2:24:24 PM ET   Posted By: Bryan
Posted to: Canon News, Sony News    Category: Sigma Announcements
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