Compact, robust - convincing

I have long been looking for a new tripod for my DSLR. The offer in this segment is now huge and "complicates" the search for a suitable companion.
Finally, the choice fell on two tripods favorable - medium price range. Here I would like to present the HAMA TRAVELLER COMPACT PRO.
Pre - I run photography as a hobby and can therefore on features like ultra-light carbon, etc. without.

Important for me was against the following features:
- Fast terminals for time-saving adjustment
- Ball Head
- Quick-release plate
- Carrying capacity of at least 2kg.
- Possibility for ground-level shots
- Possibly Reverse position

Used this tripod with the following equipment: Canon EOS 450D / 60D, different lenses in 0.5 - 1kg range (eg Sigma 28-70 EX)

FIRST IMPRESSION:

At first impression, I was impressed by the quality of the stand. It feels valuable and solid on which materials are meticulously crafted - no adhesion points, no protruding degrees, no separate chemical vapors or protruding screws.
The construction is, according to the name, really compact and therefore well suited for traveling. With about 51 cm and a weight of 1.4kg allows the tripod well carry on longer trips (whether in the supplied bag or backpack own photo).

BAG:

The stand itself is delivered in a portable bag with adjustable strap. This provides enough space for the tripod and you can see this quickly. The material is a bit thin and makes a not so sophisticated look like the tripod itself. However, the bag from Hama served its purpose and in the conservation and protection has certainly long about it.

HANDLING:

After a short Eingewöhnphase handling and the construction of the stand are really easy. A description is not included. For experienced photographers certainly not a major obstacle, but whoever At length an original, which would certainly appreciate a Quick Start Guide. Nevertheless, I had no major problems in the construction.

Tripod legs:

The tripod legs can be off in three lengths and have a maximum height of 163cm. For me (1,72m) a good working height. I have the camera display the field of vision and can operate everything well, without having to stoop too strong.
Facilitate the setting up by the three quick-connecting terminals on each tripod leg. Simply open the clip, take off leg, notice terminal - done.
Even with a fully extended height of 1,63m and the tripod provides a stable stand. Nothing is loose, nothing wavering.
In spite of this, the terminals are made of plastic, they work perfectly and close securely.

Load:

The table indicates the load with 10kg. My 450D / 60D held the tripod with different lenses always sure (about 1-2kg load). But that Hama can hold so without problems a 5D with battery grip and 70-200L.

BALL:

Even the 3D ball head makes a stable impression and is meticulously crafted. The camera can be moved through the ball in any direction. It is stated the head by a bolt. No matter which lens on my camera - the ball head is always steady. Even with the lens facing downwards secure stability has always been given. There is nothing to complain about
Especially helpful is a small spirit level on the ball head, so the photographer can at any time be sure to have straightened his camera. Leaning horizons can therefore be avoided.

Quick release plate:

The quick release plate no hassle on and unscrewing the camera more is needed. At the bottom of the camera part of the plate is simply attached and the next time you use the camera can simply click in the holder provided. Determined is back with a lever and also with a small pin.

Bases:

The tripod legs are made of rubber and even offer the tripod a secure grip. Even when fully extended working height I could make no uncertain status.
Positive a piece 'feet can be hochschrauben and come to light small spikes. Thus, the tripod can also even on soft ground such as are used, for example, forest floor, while providing firm footing.

Ground-level shots and reverse position:

With a simple twist motion on the hinges at the top of the tripod legs can be brought to a minimum working height of 52 cm. For ground-level shots so well suited.
Those who like shooting macro shots, which will be pleased with the Retro function of the stand. For this, the ball head is simply wrong on the center column screwed around (where the little hook for a weight is). Again, I have consistently had good experiences. The camera hangs upside down, and sure you can practice the smallest details of our nature in peace.

CONCLUSION:

Not always have things that are favorable to leave a bad impression. Best example is the Hama Traveller Compact Pro for me. With its lightweight and compact design, the stand has become a faithful travel companion.
Facilitates the work will be quick release plate and quick-connecting terminals. The processing was very good in my copy. The release plate is shaking not with me. The possibility for ground-level shots and the reverse position makes the heart beat faster of macro photographers.
Includes a carrying bag, this could be something from the valent material. A small negative point is there for the fact that no quick start guide is included. The stand is easy to handle after a short Eingewöhnphase, for first time this would be certainly helpful.
From me there is a buy rating and 4 out of 5 stars for a good price / performance ratio.

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Thank you.