[Ballast Hook] I need a rock-solid tripod. I typically zoom to between 2000 mm and 3000 mm to shoot bird portraits. At this magnification any vibration in the tripod results in soft photos. I purchased the FT-6852A because it was designed specifically for extreme strength and stability as an optics platform for long lens photography and similar activities. I have found that it is indeed very sturdy and damps vibration fast. With it, I routinely take tack sharp photos at 3000 mm equivalent. Since I pan the head between shots, I added a FLM leveling base to the top of the center column (under my pan/tilt head). This addition does not affect the features of the center column. The center column (being both separable and reversible) provides two ways to shoot from ground level; and, (being 32 mm in diameter) it also provides a way to quickly change the tripod height
without degrading image sharpness. Finally, the tripod comes with a nice padded case that holds the tripod with both my leveling base and pan/tilt head attached.My photos have definitely improved since I bought the FT-6852A. I can transport it easily, set it up quickly, and take sharp photos at very high magnification.

[Arca-Type] Very original product suitable for a standard monopode with an unexpensive thread adapter

[Carbon Fiber] So I’m an old person  anymore.  I still get out a lot though for photography.  I wanted to still be able to carry along  a tripod and effectively use it.  It had to be really lite, fit in my day pack, and support my 7D2 with 150-600 C lens.
As I already had a decent ball head, I only needed the tripod.  I use the tripod with four sections extended  and sitting on my 16” camp stool.  Perfect for an old guy like me.  I have now spent many a day at my favorite duck pond photographing.  This set up is just right for me.  As a bonus, if you fully extend the legs and raise the center column  and push the legs together, you have a very useable monopod.  Providing you aren’t much over six feet tall.
I’m getting a lot of use out of this tripod.  Just the ticket for an older American like myself.

[Fluid Head] Well built and accurate dimensions. It has adequate surface area to secure my dslr with a 600 mm lens.

[Rapid] I wanted a compact tripod for an upcoming overseas trip and this looked like a good fit. I already have two Induro tripods and heads but they are still bulky for airline travel, hiking and city vistas. This Field Optics model is surprisingly sturdy and keeps my DSLR very stable. The lower overall height is fine as I intend to use it low down for waterfalls, landscapes and city lights. The reverse folding center section makes it very compact so its easy to drop into a camera shoulder bag. I added a skinny ballhead to keep the overall weight down. Very happy; lets see how it performs next month in the UK.

[Ballast Hook] I was very skeptic getting this considering the lack of reviews. But after getting it, I am fairly impressed by it!

I have other tripods for different uses, but this one is my main go-to tripod for travel or when needing something small and very lightweight. It fit into my external bag pocket where my other tripods couldn't. Bonus!

Its pretty sturdy, goes up to about upper chest height, has fast locking and opening, and does the job.

Just slap on a good ball head and you're good. Supports my camera with a 70-200 2.8 no problem.

[Yes] After using this tripod for two weeks I have decided to update my review to five stars. Yes this tripod could be sturdier but it is extremely well made for the price. The quality of this tripod is comparable to my much more expensive and heavier Gitzo tripod. Considering its weight and price I do not think one could expect more.



I really like that MicroLite folds to such a compact size and weighs less than two pounds. You do sacrifice height and total stability, but if you need something very light and compact in a full size tripod this may be the one to get.

[Ballast Hook] B&H is the best!

[3/8"-16 Male] I was a bit uncertain about buying this tripod due to the utter lack of almost any reviews anywhere on the web. But don’t let that discourage you in the slightest!

This tripod is ridiculously light. It folds down to just a bit over 1 foot long, yet when extended fully I only have to bend slightly and I’m 6’ tall. It is carbon fiber which for anyone that’s felt it before does give it a plastic like feel but it is very strong. Also the locks on the leg extensions and middle shaft unscrew to unlock, but never stop so if you were to keep unscrewing they would come off. But understanding that, just unscrew them a small bit, extend into position and then retighten them down to lock. The leg locks that allow you to flip them 180 degrees have a pleasant clicking into place so you know when you have them in the right location. And when flipped around for maximum compact size, with a small head (like my Sirui C-10S Ball Head) that extends a bit beyond the legs, it still fits easily in the included bag. The bag is well made and almost feels as heavy as the tripod, with solid stitching and included shoulder strap.

Having said all that I should make clear that because of this light weight, long legs, and flexible carbon fiber build, it can have a bit of a wobble. On long exposures you will want to use a remote or app to trigger the shutter. You could drop the middle shaft so the camera is sitting on the legs, which does help a lot, but then it’s sitting rather low. I know that sounds like a big negative, but I’ve noticed this on a lot of tripods with tall center shafts so I’m not dropping a star. Besides this is meant to be a travel tripod and this WAY out shines its faults.

Overall, understanding how to use this tripod will allow for ease of use. And its ridiculously small form and light weight make it an unbelievable travel companion that I am VERY happy I purchased. I look forward to taking longer trips with it in my pack and almost forgetting it’s even there.

[Rapid] I bought this to replace my 3-legged thing I bought a year ago.  

The 3-legged thing tripod has lost several components, including the weight hook under the center column. The worst is the center column can be accidentally pulled off and can never be put back properly again.

I choose this model for its light weight, which is barely over 2 lbs. Also, it has an excellent price.

The first impression when opened the box is its surprising robust construction, very sturdy. 

I knew it is short, that I planned to use it with waist level finder on my medium format camera and the angle finder on my Leica. It is what I wanted, but after opened it, I think a little taller could be better.

Its weight is slightly heavier than I thought. It does match the spec, but I just realized that my 3-legged thing is about 1 pound lighter. So, if you want something really light weight, get the carbon fiber version. And better yet, get a taller model from this manufacturer.

Overall, I am very happy about this manufacturer for its quality. ButI recommend to get the taller and carbon fiber version. 

No, I would not return it or make exchange. It is more than good enough for me.