2012-12-09T19:00:00
Rated 4 out of 5
Very Solid and Smooth Operating
I bought this tripod and head to reduce the weight I carry on long hikes and to increase the maximum height of my old aluminum tripod. The Sirui N-1204 CF & K-10X Head definitely accomplished that with a combined weight of less than three pounds and a fully extended height of 66 inches. The legs are very solid and the head held my heaviest camera and lens combination (Canon 5d mkII & 100M-400M lens) without a problem. The fit and finish is extremely good and all the needed accessories (case, carrying strap and short center column) are included.
While I prefer flip locks, as they provide visual evidence that the legs are locked, I found the "one quarter turn" twist locks to be very smooth and easy to use on the Sirui tripod. I'm sure I will prefer these twist locks over flip locks when I get use to them. I am extremely happy with my purchase and would highly recommend it, however, it could be improved.
(1.) The "tension Adjustment" on the head changes in use and has to be reset quite often. (2.) The center column "hook" and "locking collar" must be tightened periodically as they tend to come loose. (3.) Like most imported product instructions, they are rather limited and at times inaccurate. While it may be only with the supplied tripod head, you shouldn't tighten the locking screw "a" on the tripod as they instruct you to do in "final locking" as this will inhibit the panning of the tripod head.
In spite of these shortcomings I would definitely buy this tripod again however I might opt for a larger head if I were buying it again.
steve b.
