I have both the 055 pro and the MF3 CF tripods.These are fitted with either the 501 or 393 manfrotto heads as required.I am an avid digiscoper and also bird "snapper" and my needs may be different from yours.
So, if you grasp the leg sets at the top (near to the head platform), then the MF3 shows less flexing in the lowest leg section.
The clamping set up for the centre column on the 055 is better and less flexible than on the MF3.The MF3 has the facility to enable the centre column to be used HORIZOTALLY and also has a split (short length ) centre column suitable for using pod very close to the ground.Using the MF3 at full height with the short centre coloumn, I do not find it ( with head attached) very rigid, because the clamping arrangement does not appear to grip the lower end of the coloum very well.Having said that, with the column at full length the set up is very rigid. As stated I use both leg set for 500/4 +telecons+heavy DSLR, and have no probs with either, also have digiscoped with both with no obvious probs.
Weight maybe of concern to you, the MF3 is very light and I use this for long treks.Wind/sun/rain/heat and have not noticed any obvious difference in performance ( ie it was very windy and if only I had the 055 ,the images would have been much better).If I had to give up one then, after a lot of thought, it would be draw the shortest straw.Both are good, depends on you needs either will serve you well.For interest, I have fitted the MF3 with spikes, cost about £15 but well worth it.Hopefully Yelvertoft finds something of interest in the above, come back if you need any more.
regards Subzero.
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