Velbon Maxi 347GB Tripod and Case - Black

I already own a Velbon CX 530 tripod but I wanted a more compact one that would easily fit into a backpack or, if strapped on the outside, would not be gigantic and unwieldy. Having searched the web and looked at a variety of options, including Slik, Manfrotto and Giotto, I chose this one. I found several reviews from professional photographers who were impressed with its sturdiness and I also wanted one that would be under 45 cm folded and over 140 cm extended. It's a lot to ask for because common sense says that the smaller it is folded, the less it will be when extended, but Velbon have excelled themselves with their four-section trunnion leg system and a centre column which gives just under 43 cm folded and 158 cm extended. The feet of each leg have a rubber cup which can be screwed in to allow a spike to extend and the pan and tilt head is an absolute joy. It's reasonably lightweight (2.6 lbs - 1.2 kg) and looks great. Top marks to Velbon for this little beauty!

Really light and easy to set up. I bought 2 (one for my brother). There are two downsides tot his tripod: - the QL plate attaches to the camera with a screw that needs to be re-tighten constantly. - the click mechanism to attach the camera is a bit funny at times and I would recommending triple checking the camera is safely attached before getting your hands off it. I would still recommend buying it, as it is good value for money; if you are aware of these two areas and take precautions, you should have no trouble.

Was able to take this to Spain even with the low budget airline baggage allowance. So light you don't know you are carrying it so excellent for long walks. However, this means it IS light and won't be suitable for a heavy telescope or long range camera lens. I use it with Nikon ED50 fieldscope - also very light - and it's ideal. Got an extra quick-release plate so digital camera can go on it too.

chose this tripod as it goes full height - which is usefull when doing interviews. Not bad for its price... but not THAT smooth when doing tilt or pans....

Basically a good product, let down by a poor quality bag with a short handle (it cannot be carried over your shoulder) and a rather awkward head plate system.