Miles Collins

Award winning tripod from Manfrotto

Manfrotto seem to have done it again with this 2007 TIPA award winning tripod. Recently redesigned with the horizontal centre column made easier to handle. If you extend the column as far as it will go vertically it can be quickly swung round to horizontal without removing the head or taking the column apart, this is ideal for speedy positioning set ups.

I like the flip lever leg locks, well made and easy to use they can be quickly set at alternate angles to accomodate for rough ground etc. They have also included leg warmers on two of the legs to help when using in extreme weather conditions. If low level macro shots are your thing the tripod can be used as low as 3.3″ (8.5cm) by using the low angle adaptor which is built into the centre column, going up it reaches a maximum height of 57.5″ (146cm)

I use the 804RCD 3-way head with the tripod. It has newly designed handles and a spring feature to help in the tilt motion of the head if you are using heavy, off-centre loads. Each arm has seperate locking controls; panoramic, front and side tilt. The three way head is made from a new light weight material called Adapto which is similar in strength to aluminium but much lighter.

Combined the two make for a very impressive pro-level piece of kit.