I've bought the tripod, since I have been looking on eBay, Amazon and photo shops for a cheap but equally sturdy tripod. Many tripods that I have looked at me, gave me either the head or the legs provide. Quite different in the Mantona tripod. It's already at first glance a very solid impression, the legs are at the fully extended state stable-standing (although not even a center brace is fitted).
It should be noted, however, I have this that I very sluggish find the joints (!!), but maybe this is improving with time and repeated fold the legs.
The center bar conveys the same impression as the mainstays, very stable and wobble-free.
One great advantage of the ball head, the camera can be moved in all positions. He llsst into two tilt "Kulen" in order to make horizontal photos.
A small spirit level indicates whether the legs are horizontal, but I do not have another one that is installed in the head to align the camera korreckt (from me can be so wrong as it wants the "framework", the main thing is the camera horizontally ).
The quick release plate is stable, and mounted screwed slip even to the camera. Me as a layman, it is not possible to compare the changing systems of more expensive tripods but the Plate slip in any of the tested by me camera locations.
Whether the tripod really carries the specified load of 5kg, I can not test my Nikon D3000 with 18-55mm lens is keeping it all however.
As can be seen in the photo, the legs can fold almost horizontally, thereby achieving the minimum working height of 45cm (floor to the top of the removable disk).
The maximum height is 150 cm, but under the Promisse that the stability is considerably waning because then the "leg ends" are very little apart.
To really do not have very stable state, you should be satisfied with the maximum working height of 140cm. Nevertheless, a perfectly good working height in my opinion.
Summary:
Pros:
- Very stable, in every respect
- Ball head provides infinite adjustment of the camera
- Quick change system very reliable
- A carrying case is included
Cons:
- Joints of the legs stiff
CONCLUSION: In my opinion the Mantona tripod is an excellent solution for any photographer whose budget is tight, or initially wants to buy a tripod that several 100 devours.
The ball head is designed for infinite adjustment of the camera position and is therefore in any environment is the perfect tool for ausergewöhnliche perspectives.
Those looking for a tripod for less money, will be angry in retrospect never about buying and conjure up a lot of nice photos on the memory card!
Note to the recession of my "predecessors":
- I can undercut the minimum height of 55cm with 40cm!
- The clamps on the legs I do not feel particularly stiff and they are to me as they are rather than what not tight enough ;-)