[Yes] Short Summary: It is lightweight, great height, fits in carryon and works great. Integrated head works fine.

Long version:

I have had several travel tripods. First the Gitzo GT1542T that I sold to get the RRS TVC-24 - as it was more stable but not much more weight. The TVC-24 was great as a single tripod to have - but I wanted a taller and stronger tripod for bigger lenses/car travel (600mm f/4, etc.) and a slightly lighter travel tripod for airport travel. And at times it was too short. So I sold the TVC-24 for two different tripods: RRS TFC-14 (lightweight air travel tripod) and a TFC-34 (everything else / car based travel, reasonably tall).

The TFC-14 was great but the height was a little too short. And then the new RRS Ascend 14 Long was introduced. I bought one with an integrated head. Subsequently I have also bought the Ascend platform center column from RRS so I can convert it to either the integrated head version (ASCEND-14L-BH) or the platform head verion (ASCEND-14L-PF). So I am in position to write reviews for either.

I used it for a European vacation and found it a dream to use because of it's height. We had traveled carryon bags only during this trip. I can fit the tripod in a 21 inch wheeled carryon if I remove the center column with the integrated head.

The TFC-14 + BH-30 was around the same folded length as the new RRS Ascend 14 Long with an integrated head. This short folded length makes it very easy to carry it attached to a backpack.

[Carbon Fiber] I bought this from B&H awhile back. It's become my one tripod for everything since it's tall enough for wildlife photography while compact enough to take anywhere. I did buy a separate platform head which comes in handy when I want to use a gimbal head for wildlife photography but I think the integrated head completes the intended original vision for this product

[4 Positions] This compact travel tripod is small and light - almost looks like a toy when folded up. However, when extended it works magnificently. It is stable and the included head is easy to use and works well. The 30 pound load capacity is phenomenal given the small size of this unit. I ordered the cap cover from RRS that covers the flat screw knob that controls rotation. This makes it easier to find and use. Price is frightening, but the unit is solid.

[Ball Head] Quick to use after initially getting used to it. Quite light for its size and as stable as they come. I am really enjoying using it.

[Ball Head] I wanted to invest in a light-weight, sturdy, high-quality travel tripod to last me the rest of my life. And this fit the bill perfectly.

I've purchased many high-quality carbon fiber tripods over the years, and this is by far the best built one I've used. The build is super-solid and sturdy. And as a bonus, it's an attractive looking piece of equipment to boot!


The lightweight and compact form factor makes traveling a breeze, and when fully set up, becomes a 'full-size' tripod-so no hunching over like other travel tripods for someone like me who is nearly 6ft tall.

Bonus: If the head is separated, it will just (barely) fit vertically in my domestic carry-on max/bigger luggage case by tucking it into a corner. Note: It won't fit the smaller international carry-on luggage size though.

[4 Positions] Yes, its expensive, let’s get that out right upfront. However, the design and quality of build our second to none! I have been down the road with several travel or compact tripods. I spent more money than this overall and wish I just bought this ascend 14 right from the start. For me, it is the perfect combination of compact size, flexibility by having a center column and stability. It is small enough to take on travel or for every day general photography, but I’m giving up very little in terms of stability. I have a much larger, systematic tripod, which I doubt I’ll use much ever again!

I have no idea what the profit margin on this tripod is, but I can’t help think that if it was priced around $1200 RRS would rule the tripod market.

[Carbon Fiber] I bought the Ascend to use as a travel tripod when I need to carry it on an airplane and/or on a backcountry backpacking trip. It is the most rigid travel tripod that I have experienced. The long version is tall enough for me to use without having to stoop down and the legs are standard RRS quality construction without any limitations. I have just started to use the tripod and need to really see how the integrated ball head works. On first glance it seems very capable for the size and weight, but use in the field will test the point.