2013-12-20T19:00:00
Rated 5 out of 5
Lightweight and solid
This was purchased with a Swarovski spotting scope, and they work perfectly together. The built-in shoe on the scope locks solidly into the tripod head. I sometimes attach a camera body for digiscoping and the tripod functions well as a solid support without an added rail (another expensive option). Complete movement damping would require weighting it or strapping it down, but it's pretty good as is. The legs extend smoothly with lever locks, and a center post slides up and down somewhat less smoothly. The head has quick and smooth locks for tilt and swivel, and includes a bubble level if needed.
I have another tripod - a good brand-name, a smaller model and about 1/3 the price but there is no comparison for use with a heavy scope-camera combination. The Swarovski is pricey but is a very high-quality piece of gear.
EDMUND F.
