Slik Pro 400DX Tripod Legs - Black - with 3-Way Pan/Tilt Quick Release Head (Height 18.5 - 61", Maximum Load 9.9 lbs) Review

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(More customer reviews)After purchasing this tripod, I had a bit of buyer's remorse. This was because I started looking at the 700DX and thought that might be a better option. BUT...after receiving this tripod, all my doubts vanished.
The tripod felt very solid when I picked it up. The construction is strong yet very manageable in terms of weight. I wanted a good stable tripod for my Nikon D80, zoom lens and flash - mounted. This is the one!
All the adjustment levers and nobs are very well constructed, feels solid and works as it should. The panning head with the dual handles are positioned to make fine controlled adjustments with the camera mounted. The foam on the 3 legs are nice for handling. The clips to unlock the legs to bring the tripod down to the lowest level for low-to-the-ground shot are an ingenius, yet simple design.
Overall, I can't seem to find a fault with this tripod. For the price and quality...it's a no-brainer. If it came with a carrying bag...that would make it a complete success.

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The PRO 400 DX has many of the same professional features of the PRO 700 DX and even adds a few more of it's own.The PRO 400 DX is an all-metal tripod, which is more than suitable for digital or 35 mm SLR cameras and medium format cameras. Speed release leg locks make the PRO 400 DX a breeze to set up and take down. The soft grip padded legs, and a folded length of just 25 inches make this lightweight tripod even more of a breeze to carry.But this is no flimsy camera support, despite its lightweight and ease of use it can hold nearly 10 ponds of camera and lens. Plus the head is removable, so that a variety of other heads, like one of the SLIK ball heads or the Master Classic head for heavy telephoto lenses, can be used in place of the included 3-way pan head with quick release plate.3 position leg angle locks allow lowering the tripod to for very low angle or macro photography work. It has a short center column built in, just unscrew the column into two pieces and it becomes 6.5 inches shorter. That allows the camera to be only 14 inches off the ground with the legs at their lowest position.

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Velbon El Carmagne 530 Carbon Fiber Tripod with Pan Head and Case Review

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(More customer reviews)Being new to photography,I purchased the Velbon Carmagne 530 carbon fiber tripod with PH-250B magnesium head for my Canon A95 camera, based upon several other favorable reviews. I wanted a lightweight but durable tripod that was easy to use. This tripod has fulfilled all expectations with its superb quality and close tolerances--there isn't a sloppy component anywhere and it looks as if it were made for the space program. The matt-black finish is beautiful. The carbon fiber legs (the main sections have a black foam covering) extend smoothly and are secured easily with snap-locks. The locking mechanism that controls the splay of the legs works beautifully, allowing the tripod to be positioned for macro shots of ground-level subjects. The 3-way panhead is adjusted with a locking knob and two removable handles (one of which must be removed to store the tripod in the included carrying case--no big deal). The tripod should be able to support even SLRs with telephoto lenses. Fully collapsed, the tripod is roughly 26" long and is easily transported with the case's carrying strap. Although I may never use the "stone" bag (for weighting the tripod down) including it was a thoughtful touch. More expensive models extend to greater heights, but I preferred the fewer leg sections (three) of the model 530. If you think you'll be doing a lot of indoors and outdoor photography and value superb engineering and quality, consider this tripod. It is worth the price, but be prepared to spend over $200. Now having tried a carbon fiber-magnesium tripod, I would never go back to a run-of-the-mill metal one.

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U)VELBON ELCARMAGNE 530 CARBON TPOD

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Gitzo GT2531EX Series 2 Carbon 6x 3 Section G-Lock Explorer Tripod - Replaces Gitzo GT2530EX (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought this for my wife to use, along with a Really Right Stuff BH-55 Pro ball head. Now I have tripod envy. It's not that my Manfrotto 190MF3 is a bad tripod--just that this tripod is taller, sturdier, and more stable.
Every tripod has its purpose. I do a lot of macro work, and like that I can squeeze the 190MF3 into small spaces low to the ground. I also like that the Manfrotto is light enough to be easily carried all day on either a photo pack or a regular backpack. But the maximum height of that tripod leaves it either too low (with center column not extended) or less stable, particularly with a wildlife lens or in windy conditions (with center column extended). This Gitzo tripod is rock solid for general purpose work--but the longer legs are more ungainly when low to the ground and it weighs a bit more. The only solution for us is to own and use both.
There are a couple things you should know before buying this tripod. First, the center column on this tripod is set off-center, part of the design for this tripod so that the column can be rotated quickly to a horizontal position. Second, Gitzo stands behind its products, so that is factored into the price. Third, the center column comes preloaded with a hook at the bottom, so one can loop weight to the bottom for added stability. And lastly, the legs lock into any position, rather than into 3-4 fixed positions. I don't have trouble with this latter feature, but I can see that some folks might get fussy when leveling the tripod on even ground since they may not be able to eye-ball leg angles. If you're a klutz with tripods, you might look at one of the sister Gitzo tripods before making a decision.
The RRS ball head was a great find, too. While the Manfrotto is paired with an ultralight Acratech ball head, the slightly heavier RRS ball head locks down more easily, and it maneuvers better due to its tension control.
Different strokes for different folks--there's a lot to like about this tripod. The question you must ask yourself is whether the unique mix of features matches up to the way you do photography. And perhaps whether there is enough equipment to share with your spouse.
"HONEEEYY, I need your tripod! And the 180mm macro lens!"

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The GT2531EX Explorer tripod makes unconventional shots possible. The tripods legs can be set at any angle and moved independently while the center column tilts and rotates freely to any position. The 6X Carbon fiber used to make the GT2531EX maximizes rigidity, vibration absorption, and lightweight performance. Also, the solid machined aluminum upper disk with Safe Lock material that cuts vibration and improves grip between tripod and head. This tripod is recommended for lightweight camcorders and DSLRs with lenses up to 300mm. This replaces the Gitzo GT2530EX.

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Velbon DF-60 Dual Function Light Weight Tripod Review

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(More customer reviews)Like the other reviewer - I checked out tripods at a camera store. Hadn't heard of Velbon, but a quick Internet search showed them to be a recognized name in tripods. I needed a tripod for my Nikon D50 (especially with the 70-300mm zoom lens), and perhaps a video camera, and the DF-60 fit the bill - lightweight, quick to set up, leveling bubble, detachable baseplate, etc. Sure, it's pretty much all plastic, but if you take care of your equipment - shouldn't make that much difference for non-professional use. It's stable enough with the built-in leg brace spreader. The price at the camera store was almost $70 - Amazon beat them by a mile. Received it in a few days. So far - everything I though it would be. Highly recommended if you need a lighweight tripod. Now I need to get a bag so I can sling it over my shoulder.

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Item #: T44800. Product Type: TripodWeight: 4 lbsTripod Head Type: PanTripod Operating Height: 64 in Customers also search for: Technology\Cameras, Camcorders, Digital Frames, and Accessories\Digital Cameras\Camera Lenses, Flashes and Accessories Discount Velbon DF-60 - tripod, Buy Velbon DF-60 - tripod, Wholesale Velbon DF-60 - tripod, 0017915400603, DF-60, Camera Lenses, Flashes and Accessories

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Gitzo GT2541 Series 2 Carbon 6X4 Section Tripod with G-Lock Replaces GT2540 Review

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(More customer reviews)This tripod is the best in terms of the right weight and stability. My gig is kind of heavy, Canon 1DS MK3 with the 70-200mm F2.8L the heaviest lens that I currently have and it supports it without any issue. I also have the Arca-Swiss Z1, which is also considered to be the best and the combination is so good to use. It is not light nor heavy but if this is the one tripod that you must have for all purposes, then I can't think of any other tripod to buy. It is pricey, but if you want the best and keep with you for a long time, then just buy it and forget it.


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When Gitzo launched the Mountaineer tripods in 1994, they were the World\'s first carbon fiber tripods. Ever since then they have set the standard for performance and quality. The main feature of the range is the new 6X carbon fiber tube, made of a unique structure of 6 crossed layers that maximizes rigidity, vibration absorption and lightweight performance. 6X tube has a high density structure made of top quality ultra-thin carbon fibers (7?m or 0.007 mm). Built-in Anti Leg Rotation is now a feature of the whole carbon fiber range. Mountaineer tripods have been further improved with features and details that increase performance, versatility and quality. The ground level set feature allows you to remove the center column to save weight and get the camera closer to the ground. Uses existing components: the upper disc with reversible 1/4 - 3/8 bolt and the column hook assembly: Remove column and fix the disk directly to the upper casting using the column hook. The column hook allows you to hang a stabilizing weight (e.g. a full camera bag or a sand/water bag) from the bottom of the tripod center column. Useful with long heavy lenses, on uneven ground or in windy conditions. minimum height: 6.69 in; series: 2; weight: 3.00 lbs. This replaces the Gitzo GT2540.

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Gitzo GT2541EX Series 2 Carbon 6x 4 Section G-Lock Explorer Tripod - Replaces GT2540EX (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased this tripod after reading the other two reviews here and seeing this tripod at a local camera shop. I did lots of research before choosing the 2541EX, but ultimately decided to purchase this tripod for the following reasons:
1. The build quality of the tripod is fantastic (which you would expect for a Gitzo)
2. The flexibility that the center column provides
3. It is quite light, but very sturdy (love that carbon fiber!)
4. It compacts down to just over 20 inches-- it will fit inside my carry-on.
I have a Really Right Stuff BH-55 ball head paired with this tripod, and I doubt that there is ANY shooting situation that this tripod combined with that head cannot handle. My research told me that there might be a better match for my RRS head (one that can support more weight), but this tripod was listed as suitable, and I have found it to be rock solid with all my lenses (I have used it with the Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 IS and the Canon 100-400mm and had no issues with stability or performance).
Operating this tripod quickly becomes second-nature. The knobs are well designed and big enough for virtually any size hand. The center column rotation uses a "gear"-like mechanism, so it locks in place very securely. That said, the teeth of the gear do slightly limit the number of positions in which the center column can be set (although this can be easily compensated for by changing the position of the legs).
Speaking of the legs, I love the manner in which the legs spread out, although those who are used to having predefined "stops" might find the 2541EX takes a bit to get used to. That is, you are not likely to open each leg the same degree, so getting the tripod level is a bit more challenging. However, when combined with a ball head, this really is a non-issue. The flexibility that is provided by the ability to open each leg to any degree far outweighs the challenge to get it level by using predefined stops. After all, unless you are shooting on completely level ground, those predefined stops become very inflexible.
Initially I was worried a bit about the G-Lock feature of this tripod, as I have another tripod that uses a similar approach to leg extension which sometimes gets tightened to the point that I need a wrench to loosen it again. However, after using this tripod, I no longer have those worries. The G-Lock system works extremely well.
Another feature that I appreciate is the replaceable rubber feet of the tripod. While I haven't had to do that yet, it is comforting to know that if one gets damaged or I need to use spikes instead, the 2541EX can accommodate replacement with ease.
All of this quality, flexibility, and performance definitely come at a cost, however. The current going rate for the 2541EX seems to be $675, which is daunting to say the least. However, a solid tripod is invaluable for achieving tack sharp photos. After working with this tripod, I believe that it will satisfy me for the rest of my life, so given that, the high cost isn't so bad. That said, I did only give 4 stars for price vs. quality because of the hefty price tag. Still, I have absolutely no regrets about purchasing this tripod.

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The Explorer is another of Gitzo's tripods for special applications - a versatile support that opens up new shooting perspectives. Thanks to its unconventional design, the legs can be set at any angle and moved independently, while the center column tilts and rotates freely to any position. The Explorer unleashes its potential when used with a Gitzo off-center ball head, a combination that makes it the ideal tripod for creative photographers looking for unconventional shots: close to ground, upside down, or in tight or awkward spaces. Ideal applications are outdoor macro and nature photography, still life and architectural. Explorer tripods in both Carbon 6X and Basalt, feature G-Lock - Gitzo's leg locking system that increases system rigidity by 20%, and allows quicker and stronger leg locking. Carbon 6X Explorers feature a solid machined aluminum upper disc with a new Safe Lock material. Explorer tripods also come with a convenient anti-dust bag for storage and packing. This is the best choice for DSLR or for lightweight camcorders. This series is recommended for lenses ranging from 200mm to 300mm. Series 2 offers excellent load capacity endurance, and very good torsional rigidity. Series 2 is the ideal solution for photographers looking for a solid, and yet lightweight tripod. This replaces the Gitzo GT2540EX.

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Slik 330 DX Pro Series Black Tripod 3Way Pan/Tilt Head & Quick Release with Tripod Case + Cleaning Kit Review

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(More customer reviews)This is my second DX330... I've had one for several years and have packed it all over. I can strap it under my small Tamrac backpack and go. I've dented the tubes (small dents) and it still works without issue. The feet are durable and even though there are not spiked feet, the rubber ones work great outdoors, especially on rocks. I can perch my pod between boulders without issue and my camera has never fallen. The head is simple, but works. The handles screw into one another for easy packing. I don't use the bag, and I've never lost any parts.
This is actually for my mom, as mine is still working without a hitch. Just get it!

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Kit includes:♦ 1) Slik 330 DX Pro Series Black Tripod 3Way Pan/Tilt Head & Quick Release♦ 2) SLIK 24" Tripod Carrying Case - Medium Bag♦ 3) Precision Design Deluxe 6 Piece Lens & Digital SLR Cleaning KitThe lightest of the Slik PRO series, the PRO 330 DX makes setting up easy with secure, quick-release leg locks, gearless center column for fast height adjustments, and 3 position adjustable angle legs for easy set up on uneven ground or steps. This adjustable angle feature can also be used to lower the camera for extremely low angle or macro photography out in the field.
The PRO 330 DX can hold nearly 8 pounds of camera and lens. Perfect for the photographer with a digital camera or lightweight SLR camera and lens. Plus, the head is removable, so that a variety of other heads can be used in place of the included all-metal 3-way pan head with quick release.This Padded Tripod Case is made to carry a tripod (including head) up to 24" long. It is made of Heavy-Duty Nylon. The case has a large zippered exterior pocket, shoulder strap and handles.
This 6-piece cleaning kit contains everything you'll ever need to properly clean your lenses, including a Hurricane Air Blower, Lens Cleaning Tissues, Lens Cloth, Lens Cleaning Liquid, Brush and Cotton Swabs.

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Gitzo GT2531 Series 2 6X Carbon Fiber 3-Section Tripod with G-Lock - Replaces GT2530 Review

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(More customer reviews)I've been looking for a light, strong tripod to take out on hikes for nature photography. I had an older Gitzo that was the next level up (3-series?), but at nearly 5 pounds it was just too heavy. The 2531 is a light but feels very solid. I think the 3 leg section tripod is definitely the way to go for the 25XX series, as 4 sections I'm sure would not feel as stable. I used it with a 5DII and 300 2.8 lens this morning, and while stretching the specified limit on this model, it performed fine. The leg locks are much easier to use than my older model. Be careful with the tripod feet, as I lost a couple on my first outing as they are known to get loose easily. I think a accidentally loosened them while thinking I was working a leg lock, but Gitzo customer service sent replacment feet no questions asked.
Yes, its expensive, but I was happy to pay it for just the right tripod.

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When Gitzo launched the Mountaineer tripods in 1994, they were the World first carbon fiber tripods. Ever since then they\'ve set the standard for performance and quality. The main feature of the range is the new 6X carbon fiber tube, made of a unique structure of 6 crossed layers that maximizes rigidity, vibration absorption and lightweight performance. 6X tube has a high density structure made of top quality ultra-thin carbon fibers (7?m or 0.007 mm). Built-in Anti Leg Rotation is now a feature of the whole carbon fiber range. Mountaineer tripods have been further improved with features and details that increase performance, versatility and quality. Attachment: 1/4-Inch and 3/8-Inch screws; rapid center column; closed length: 25.59 in.; leg angles: 24°. 60°; 3 leg sections; load capacity: 26.46 lbs.; material: carbon fiber 6X; maximum height: 63.39 in.; maximum height (with center column down): 54.33 in.; minimum height: 12.99 in.; series: 2; weight: 3.15 lbs.

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DMKFoto Professional Tripod with Giant Ball Head Review

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(More customer reviews)We purchased this tripod after having a bad experience with a plastic, Walmart tripod. The tripod legs seem sturdy enough and have smooth action.
The ball seems sturdy as well, although it is a little clumsy to use and seems stiff. It all comes with carrying bag. I would say that all in all, this is a decent tripod as a starter, although if you use it a lot, you will probably want to upgrade the ball to a higher quality one down the road.

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SpecificationsGrooved center column eliminates column rotation Leg warmers for two legs to facilitate extreme weather condition Dual center columns: one with weight hook for added stability and one for low angle close up work (less than 10 inches from the ground) Push button leg angle adjustment for 3 leg-angle setting (28, 65 & 88 degree) 3 Sections with Quick Flip single action height adjustment Key Features The legs have a load capacity of 16 lbs. The ball head has a weight capacity of 22 lbs.This is the latest aluminum extrusion technology from E-Image. The legs are made from large diameter (29 mm) tubing. At only 5 lbs and 12 ozs this combo's weight is compatible to much more expensive carbon fiber, with a fraction of its cost. It's sturdiness and strength also rival those more expensive unit made from carbon fiber. Size/Height for studio and outdoor work Low shooting angle for close up work Quick action adjustment Light weight and versatility Strength and sturdiness This tripod and head combo consists of the most sought after features in professional tripods:

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Manfrotto 190CXPRO4 4-Section Pro Carbon Fiber Tripod without Head Review

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(More customer reviews)The real choice is between the three section model (pro 3) which is lighter and less money but longer when collapsed. I went for the compactness of this four section tripod and it has proven a good choice. Compared to other carbon tripods this one wins on functionality and quality for the money. The ability to shift the center column to horizontal, upside down and all ways in between is tremendously easy. So too are the locking catches that allow you to spread the legs to different angles with a push of the catch. My only complaint is the lack of spike feet. Instead the legs are terminated by cheap rubber caps that will wear out quickly when used on irregular hard surfaces outdoors. I was unable to find alternate feet that are available for 16mm diameter legs of other Manfrottos (the bottom legs are 11mm on the pro4). Hey Bogen you got to fix this for that much money.

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Bogen Manfrotto Carbon Fiber 190CX Tripods are the lightest Tripods that Bogen Manfrotto offers. These Bogen Manfrotto 190CX Carbon-Fiber Tripods are designed for smaller spotting scopes and cameras and is perfect for long hikes and camping. Bogen Manfrotto 190 CX CarbonFiber Tripods are comprised of 100% Carbon Fiber for high quality standards and high levels of performance, rigidity and lightness.

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Gitzo GT1541T Series 1 6X 4S G-Lock Traveler - Replaces GT1540T (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)Lightweight carbon fiber tripod, folds extremely small. I normally use a bigger stronger carbon fiber Gitzo tripod with an Acratech head for my Nikon D2X. I got the 1541T (with a lightweight Really Right Stuff head) for travelling light with hand luggage only. Certainly, my normal tripod better suits the weight of the Nikon with a decent lens, and the 1541 cannot match its strength and stability. However, the 1541 scores so highly on portability that it is well worth considering for situations where saving weight and space is paramount. And for a lighter camera such as the D700 it could be a first choice, as it has all the usual Gitzo virtues of versatility, speed of adjustment, high rigidity-to-weight ratio and high build quality.

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With such a good ratio of compact folded length to extended open height, the Traveler is the ideal tripod to carry with you around the world. Gitzos unique patented 180 folding mechanism accommodates the head inside the folded tripod legs and makes this the smallest folded tripod for its open size and number of sections. Matching this compactness with the sturdiness of lightweight carbon fiber and good speed in setup makes the Travelers the ultimate tripods. FEATURES: GROUND LEVEL SET - This feature allows you to remove the center column to save weight and get the camera closer to the ground. Uses existing components: the upper disc with reversible 1/4 - 3/8 bolt and the column hook assembly: Remove column and fix the disk directly to the upper casting using the column hook. No tools needed. RAPID COLUMN - The center column locking collar above the tripod shoulder makes it easier to adjust the column quickly. Series 1 and above are built with an anti-rotation grooved center column for improved stability. REVERSIBLE COLUMN - The rapid column can easily be inverted for an alternative shooting angle or low level macro work.

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Manfrotto 190XPROB 3 Section Aluminum Pro Tripod Review

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(More customer reviews)I've had plenty of opportunity to field test my 190XPROB since buying it several weeks ago. It has more than met expectations. Paired with a good ball head (mine is the Bogen-Manfrotto 486RC2 Compact Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System), it will satisfy most value-conscious serious amateur photographers. My rating reflects this combination of quality and price.
For the record, my dSLR and heaviest lens together weigh about eight or nine pounds.
Stability without center column extended: The 190XPROB easily supports my camera with macro, normal zoom, or mid-telephoto zoom lenses attached. The tripod legs are independently adjustable to four different positions, allowing many different shooting configurations. The tripod has been stable in all of them.
Stability with center column extended vertically: The 190XPROB reliably supports my camera and heaviest lens when the center column is extended to a bit more than half its length. The tripod also provides stable support with the center column fully extended, providing a little extra care is taken when positioning the tripod and vibrations (e.g., from wind or traffic) are minimized.
Stability with center column extended horizontally: Being able to change the center column from vertical to horizontal is one of the outstanding features of the 190XPROB -- very handy for macro work. The tripod is stable in any leg configuration with the center column extended to about two-thirds of its length. With the legs spread in the two or three widest positions, the tripod is stable with the center column fully extended horizontally.
Ease of operation: Simplicity itself. The flip lever leg locks open and close easily, lock securely. The tripod legs slide smoothly. Leg length adjustments during use are painless. The center column raises and lowers easily, rotates smoothly. Attaching a ball head is no problem at all. Very fast set up in the field.
Weight and carrying: At four pounds, the 190XPROB is not the lightest of tripods. Your ball head may add another pound. But this is a very compact tripod when folded and even with the legs extended one section -- it's easy to carry by hand or across a shoulder. I don't really notice the weight at all.
Features & suggestions: Two legs have durable leg warmers, a nice extra once the weather turns cold or rainy. They allow a firm grip on the tripod. There is one bubble level (but I much prefer using a double level attached to the camera's flash hot shoe). The tripod comes with rubber feet that are fine on floors or pavement, but a set of spiked feet (Bogen - Manfrotto Retractable Spiked Feet Adapter Set (3))adds stability on grass or uneven ground outdoors. There is one small hook from which additional weight can be suspended to reduce vibrations, but it is positioned on the side of hub rather than on the under side. This could make it awkward and a little inconvenient to use.
One caution: The 190XPROB is 48 inches tall with the center column closed (57 inches tall with the column fully extended). A ball head may add a couple more inches. As tripods go, this is not very tall, though it suits me fine for several reasons. If you're much above six feet tall, you might want to consider a bigger tripod to avoid spending too much time bent over while looking through the camera viewfinder (this wouldn't be a problem if your camera has a live view LCD function).

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The Manfrotto 190XPROB three-section tripod is ultra stable, flexible, and easy to use, making it a great choice for professional photographers everywhere. The tripod is distinguished by its Manfrotto-patented horizontal center column, which has been completely redesigned to create a more user-friendly feel. By extending the column to its highest vertical position, users can now swing the tripod round to horizontal without removing the head or disassembling the column itself. This makes switching between framing and positioning setups more convenient than ever. In addition, Manfrotto improved the ergonomics of the leg angle release mechanism and the quick-action leg locks, making it a breeze to open, position, and close the tripod in just a few seconds. The tension of the locking mechanism is even user-adjustable, so you can find the right tension for your comfort level.
The tripod's unique design allows the photographer to use the center column horizontally as an extending arm or vertically (both right-way-up and upside-down). When used horizontally, the center column can be turned 360 degrees around the tripod, making it useful for macro work, low-angle shooting, extreme balance points, and off-center work. This also makes the tripod a helpful accessory for chair-bound photographers, who can sit beside the tripod instead of behind it, putting them much closer to the camera viewfinder.
Should you need to balance the tripod on an uneven surface, you can set each of the legs to a different spread angle over the tripod's center of gravity--a must for nature shots on outdoor terrain. This also allows you to adjust the tripod to several different heights, with four preset independent leg angles and a spring-loaded step mechanism for extra stability.
Specifications
Color: Black
Includes tripod head: No
Closed length: 22.4 inches
Minimum height: 3.3 inches
Maximum height: 57.5 inches
Maximum height with center column down: 48 inches
Load capacity: 11 pounds
Material: Aluminum
Leg cross section: Round
Column cross section: 3-faceted
Leg sections: 3
Bubble spirit level: 1
Leg angles: 25, 46, 66, and 88 degrees
Center column: Rapid
Section center column: 1
Column tube diameter: 25mm
Attachment: 3/8-inch screw
Leg tube diameter: 25, 20, and 16 mm
Suggested dolly: 127, 127VS
Weight: 4 pounds
Warranty: 2 years

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Manfrotto 055XPROB Pro Tripod Legs (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)Isn't it both amazing and quite frustrating that we as consumers must weed through what seems like hundreds of reviews just to gather enough information about a single product that ONE review should be able to produce? After literally reading hundreds of reviews for a camera body, lenses, tripods, etc, I feel like the work and time should go towards saving someone else from the toil of doing the same.
First of all, if you're like me, you're out looking for the tripod recommended by Scott Kelby's great, simple book, The Digital Photography Book. He recommends the Bogen 3001BD as the most affordable tripod which is still of good build quality. This recently has become the Bogen Manfrotto 190XPROB which is very, very similar to the 055XPROB. The differences are as follows:
055XPROB - can support 15.4 pounds
190XPROB - supports 11 pounds
055XPROB - leg diameters 29.4, 25, 20 mm
109XPROB - leg diameters 25, 20, 16 mm
055XPROB - min/max. height 3.9"/70.3"
190XPROB - min/max. height 3.3"/57.5"
055XPROB - weighs 5 pounds
190XPROB - weighs 4 pounds
Otherwise, they are the same basic tripod. Both are made out of patented aluminum and have the same features such as Bogen's fold-down center column which allows you to get great macro shots as close as a few inches from the ground and they both have the newer flip type leg locks which are a little stiff when new but hold the legs nice and tightly.
In summary, if you're looking for the best, cheapest tripod for your point and shoot or entry level digital SLR, I'd recommend the 190XPROB for the few dollars in savings, the pound you save in weight, and all of the professional quality and features of a Bogen tripod. If you are like me and are using that entry level DSLR and are looking to upgrade in the future with a larger camera body, larger lenses, flashes, etc, I'd recommend the 055XPROB for it's larger size (I'm 6'1"), heavier construction and higher load capacity. All in all, they are both excellent tripods that are nearly identical. If you ask me, I'd go with the 055XPROB regardless; is the fifteen dollars and the pound in difference really worth gaining, in sacrifice of a sturdier tripod? I don't think so. I hope this helped.
I purchased this product from Amazon on Jan 13th. The shipping was amazingly fast and the price was the best I could find on the internet, hands down. The one I ordered actually shipped from one town away so it arrived next day! It was a perfect transaction.

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The 055XPROB makes the famous Manfrotto-patented horizontal center column feature even easier to use. By extending the column to its highest vertical position, it can be swung around to horizontal without removing the head or disassembling the column itself, so switching between framing and positioning setups is more convenient than ever. The ergonomics of the leg angle release mechanism and the quick action leg locks themselves have also been greatly improved.

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