New backpacking tripod

[rainrunner]

Though I haven't taken any panorama shots with the tripod, it does swivel very smoothly when I loosen the securing screw to reposition the camera.
So far I am very happy with the tripod. It is very easy to set up and take down, and seems very secure with my camera and telephoto lens.

Here is a picture with it attached to my daypack when we hiked up to the summit of South Sister this weekend.

[scole]

Good to hear. Thanks for the update!

[Waffle Stomper]

Nice to hear about the field test. On my list now.

[scole]

Thought I'd post a follow up in this thread. Because of it, I ended up buying one and just returned from an overnighter with it.

Pros-

• * I found the max height sufficient for pretty much most of my needs in the backcountry. I am 5' 10" and do have to bend over a bit to look through my viewfinder but I'm ok with that. They do make a model with a higher max height if you need it (the XC-525 but it adds another 1lb).
  * I liked and used the level bubble that's integrated into the leg.
  * I like the safety "lock" feature that prevents the camera base plate from sliding out if the head clamp is loosened.

Cons-

• * Only one portrait orientation cutout on the head. I wish it had one on both sides.
  * I feel that the bubble levels built into the tripod head are too small and useless. It's easier to use a bubble level mounted into your camera's hotshoe.
  * The twist locks. Maybe it will change over time but they seemed a little too easy to unlock when you didn't want them to.
  * Partly due to my own muscle memory with my primary tripod head's layout but more than once I nailed myself in the face with the large lock knob that secures the base plate to the head.

I won't list this as a con but just know that once you loosen the ball head it will flop QUICKLY. I didn't have any accidents but it's good to know. I'm satisfied enough with it.

[rainrunner]

The biggest con I have seen so far on this tripod is that when you align the camera up for a shot then tighten the ball head securing knob, the ball head will sometimes sag a bit from where I had it set. Once it is set it stays where it is, but the minor drop can be aggravating when you are in a tight shot, and have to re-align the camera again.

I found I don't have a problem with the level bubble on the side of the quick release mount. It works for me especially when I am taking night pictures.