Leofoto Urban LX-254CT Professional Light Weight Carbon Fiber Tripod+XB-32 Ball Head Set, Center Column Included

Tripods are always about compromises.I was looking for a tripod, which would be1. reasonably sturdy for a full frame camera with an up to 105 mm lens2. could be packed _inside_ small backpack / daypack (sometimes you do not want to look as a person carrying expensive photo equipment),3. height would be enough to use viewfinder standing upright4. weight not much, preferably below 1.5 kgThis one, Leofoto Urban series LX-254CT matches all points above.It was delivered in just few days from China, very fast, perfectly packed.The build quality seems excellent.I am also impressed with the XB-32 ball head.The height with the raised central column is enough for a tall man. In windy conditions, i would not raise it though.It folds to ~ 17.5'' ( 44 cm ) length.It comes with a very good soft case (tools are in the pocket), case length is ~ 19'' (49 cm), a bit too long to go to inside a daypack. The tripod without the case fits ok.It takes considerable volume, folded diameter is about 4 1/4'' (11 cm).Leofoto web site says that legs angle is 23 degrees, but I measured 21.5 degrees only.It feels narrow, would prefer slightly wider (and less taller).Expect it will be good for travel or shorter hikes.I got one more Leofoto after this one - Ranger series LS-224C with EB-36 ballhead (not on Amazon, it was not available here), to take on longer hikes. Ranger packs smaller, it is lighter, less max holding weight. LS-224C legs diameter is 3mm smaller than LX-254CT sections. It does not have center column, making it sturdier, shorter and more compact. Cannot use viewfinder with the Ranger, only the flip screen.Ranger LS-224C folded length (with EB36 ball head, clamp turned to the side) 18.5 '' (47 cm) folded diameter ~ 3'' (7 cm).Like both tripods so far.

I had been looking for a lightweight reasonably priced tripod to supplement my primary Gitzo tripod. The Leofoto LX-254CT with XB-32 head has been a joy to use as it has lightened my camera bag load by a third.

Un des plus légers, peu encombrant et manifestement de qualité robuste (à confirmer dans la durée)