Actually the max load is for the entire tripod (for all 3 legs included). I don't know how that divide by 3 rule factors in. Funny.
No matter. You have a very good setup already, much better than what I started with... actually much better than what I have now even. Time to work your equipment and start producing those wonderful pictures! :thumbsup:
My advice. Start shooting now... buy slowly.. dun kan jeong....
I don't know about the division logic (it was just casually highlighted to me after I've decided on which model - to be certain that it will support future heavy weights), but I certainly didn't consider that as the main criteria for buying the pods - my primary concerns were more of (not in any given order):
1) sturdiness
2) height (I'm not keen on getting a hunchback)
3) vibration management
4) weight - don't want too light, nor over heavy
5) and the monopod advantage
6) more than able to handle expected and current load
I don't think mine is better than yours - I just think I've found the right one for myself (even though it doesn't have the horizontal extension for macro) - so your pods definitely have an edge over mine. But it is definitely not about comparisons - and yes, I've started using it the minute it left the shop... Even made full use of it during the Garden show on sunday! :sweat: Can't wait to shoot more butterflies.
As for BBB... don't worry I'm not rich - so it can't be rushed no matter how kang cheong I can be (do I really sound like I am?? lol!). The most ex lens may take 1 to 3 years to realise! For the time being I can only be contented with shorter focal lengths... and a more urgent search for the UWA (realised I missed out a lot of fireworks opportunities).
If you really want to know, the current BBB decision was juggled between a reasonably good f/2.8 lens and the tripod/ballhead setup... Obviously I went for the latter.
But given that TS is considering what kind of tripod to get shows that he understands the importance of the tripod/ballhead. Nevermind if the purchase is an overkill, just as long as it does more than it is supposed to handle.