Comments about Giottos Giottos MTL 9360B 4-Section Compact Aluminum Tripod with 3-Way Ball Head, Maximum Height 55", Supports 17 lbs.:

I actually was able to check out the Manfrotto 055XProB and the Flashpoint 1022CF but finally settled on this one because it fits my purpose.It is not much lighter than the 055XProB, but in my opinion, not as refined as the Manfrotto. For example, when you raise the column and you have not loosened the screw out all the way, the rubbing sounds like a finger scratching a blackboard; first reviewer is correct that paint could be marred easily. The (aluminum?) built-in hook for a carry strap, I do not think, will stay for long but I have not really tried hooking a strap yet (in the 055XPro, it is part/welded of/to the tripod, here, it is a screw-on). I also prefer the angle selector on the Manfrotto. Aside from these issues, the overall build is as good as the 055XProB....for now, I'll wait and see.This tripod however, is more versatile than the the Manfortto. It does not come with a BALL head like the other reviewer mentioned, however, Adorama's description is correct. It comes with a built-in head (you have to switch use a smaller column and the tools provided) --- a 3-way pan/tilt/angle head, which could be useful if you do not have a head; however the 'angle' control of the head is 'geared' so you are constrained by the gears. You can do more on this tripod (because of the multi-positioning column) than the Manfrotto. I use it with the D90 on a SBH300 head and the pair is great with either an 18-200 VR or a BIGMA 50-500.This is great value if Adorama would knock off a little from the [$] price. You can not go wrong with either this or the Manfrotto tripod, but if you want versatility (BTW, I like this tripod's column guide...or whatever you call it, from the Manfrotto -- easier to switch from vertical to horizontal to angle), this one offers more and a little cheaper. Can't really compare this to the Flashpoint CF I had a handle on except both are more compact and lighter when folded than the 055XProB.

Comments about Giottos Giottos MTL 9360B 4-Section Compact Aluminum Tripod with 3-Way Ball Head, Maximum Height 55", Supports 17 lbs.:

This was my first "real" tripod and I was trying to decide between it and the Manfrotto 055XPROB. I'm happy with my choice. It offers everything the Manfrotto does, but the center column mount has a swivel feature. That swivel action also comes in handy when setting the column in a lateral position as you can swing the camera into the most stable position. I like that the lateral arm adjustment is geared to prevent any kind of sag.

PROS: Construction is very good and you get hardware to tighten all the set screws and bolts on the tripod. The levers feel solid and you can adjust the tension on them. Giotto's includes a short mount if you decide not to use the center column. Since the center mount of the tripod swivels, you can use it as a pan/tilt head and even shoot vertical!

CONS: The tripod has built-in hangers for a carry strap, but sadly, no strap is included. The center column is finished black, but it gets marred very easily. It doesn't affect performance, but I felt it was worth noting.

Adorama's description of the product is wrong. THIS DOES NOT COME WITH A 3-WAY BALL HEAD! Because of it's unique center column mount, the tripod essentially has a built-in 3-Way head. I purchased the Vanguard SBH-100 ball head and it mounts perfectly.

Overall, it's a great tripod with an unlimited range of motion and excellent stability. I think the weight is just right and gives me that perception of strength.