Flashpoint F-1428 Carbon Fiber Tripod, 4 Section Leg Set, Supports 26 lbs., Maximum Height 72".
Enough to handle semi-pro gear
Pros: Sturdy, Case can fit ball head, Good Stability, Lightweight
Cons: No leveler, Meager instructions, Rubber feetspike design
Best Uses: Stabilization, Photography, Reducing Noise (ISO Reduction), Long Exposures
Describe Yourself: Semi-pro Photographer
I was looking for a good quality tripod that can accommodate all the gear that I have. So far, the unit has met all my expectations. It is a solid and lightweight tripod that I consider semi-pro. Original specs state the tripod can stand over 6.5ft tall, without needing to extend the center column. I am about 5'10, and with the extra height added, this allows me to keep the last section of the tripod legs retracted for added stability. I bought this unit to hold the following combination of equipment:
Sony A900 DSLR
Sony VGC-90AM Vertical Grip
Sony SAL-70200G 70-200mm f/2.8 Telephoto lens
Sony SAL-70400G 70-400mm f/4-5.6 Telephoto lens
Sony 2470CZ 24-70mm f/2.8 lens
Sony HVL-58AM Flash
As some of you who are familiar with the SAL70400G lens, it can extend longer during zoom, and can throw off the center balance. This was not an issue when mounted on this tripod :) Total max weight of my gear can be up to ~ 8 - 9 pounds. This tripod held it steady without any issues. This was used in combination with the Flashpoint F-3 Ball Head.
The soft carrying case can also accommodate the tripod and the F-3 Ball head without any problems (unlike the reported lower models) and also has a smaller inside pocket to hold the allen key and small wrench)
Drawbacks of this unit are regarding the missing leveler, as well as the foot design. It includes the spike already integrated with the tripod leg, and if needed, a rotation of the outer rubber part of the leg end extends out and over the spike changing the end into a rubber nub. However, I can see over time the rubber nub wearing down and eventually exposing the spike again after some outdoor use.
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