3021 Version Identification
3020 ans 3021 are the same tripod, 3021 was the tripod legs only. The 3020 tripod being a 3021 sold with a 3063 head attached; 3125 is the 3021 tripod with 3126 head; 3128 is the 3021 tripod with 3126 head and 3127 Dolly; 3161 is the 3021 tripod with 3160 head; 3162 is the 3021 tripod with 3160 head and 3127 Dolly; 3175 is the 3021 tripod with 3130 head. There are similar codings for the 3221 Black version of the 3021 tripod.
There are at least 5 different 3021 Versions that we identify for parts. The differences are in the Main Castings, Leg Braces, Leg Locks and Center Columns. The 3021 series is different form the 3021N, 3021PRO and the 3021X series. Older Bogen are often marked with 055, the Manfrotto manufacturing number. This is helpful, though newer 055 and MT055 Manfrotto products are not interchangeable with the Bogen 3021 series.
Main Castings
Early Versions cannot take the later leg braces. The eariest Versions are a single casting with parts that hold the leg in place. The later models are 2 parts, a top and a bottom screw together. None of these are interchangable.
Leg Braces
Above Shown Brace D
There are several variations on the leg braces, where the "ears" are turned in versus out, the brace is swedged on, or if there is a single bolt or a double bolt.
Leg Locks
There are flip levers and snap levers to lock the legs. There are two Versions of 3021 flip lever, shownin the red photo: single Spiral and double Spiral. The 3021N and
3021PRO Versions use snap levers have several design variations that are not interchangeable. One Version was recalled and replaced, so if you've ever pinched you thumb you'll know why it was replaced.
Flip levers and snaps are not interchangeable.
