Scanners are often sold with expensive tripods that are too short for the needs of a collision reconstructionist. I like some height to capture the tops of vehicles (makes them look twice as good in exhibits), and a little extra height helps to space out scan stations at a site/scene.

Below are the tripods currently in our arsenal, going from shortest to tallest.

​Benro TMA48CXL: This is my go-to for consulting. Carbon fiber construction, extends to 7.0’, tough enough that I haven’t broken one yet, and cheap at $440.

​Gitzo GT5563GS with GS5513S Rapid Center Column: This is Lightpoint’s workhorse. Again, carbon fiber construction, but this Bad Larry extends to almost 10.5’ with the center column addition. This allows us to scan the tops of pickups and heavy-duty vans. It’s much pricier than the Benro, coming in at $1,880 for the combo.

​Nedo Extra Heavy-Duty 210683-185: This is what we use for scanning tractor trailers. Aluminum construction with a max height of 11.8’, priced at $468. It makes your heart skip a couple beats when the scanner is skyed out, but it can get the tops of most tractors. Pair it with these casters if you’re looking for some added efficiency and fear.

Thanks for reading, keep exploring!

Lou Peck
​Lightpoint | Axiom