Very sturdy tripod, excellent value for money but ...

After my old tripod is already really getting old, I wanted to buy the low-priced but solid tripod both with a digital SLR camera including telephoto lens as well as a video camcorder can be used.

Most cheap tripods are either very or wobbly, only up to about 1 kg load unlike Mantona tripod that should be loaded with 5 kg. Even while unpacking we recognize the style of the professional tripods Mantona because it makes a very solid impression, the legs are stable even in the completely extended state, and the head comes with a quick release system and a spirit level. A carrying case is also included in the price and in an inside pocket of this is a hex key with which you can adjust the stiffness of the legs (Of course, no instructions are included).

The Quick panel sits very firmly and can be replaced relatively easily if you get the trick. To date, no clearance has been formed and the camera has shifted in all tested by me documents. I have tested the 430 tripod with a Canon EOS 550D with EFS 18-135mm lens and Speedlite flash EXII.

The ball head has no 2. adjustment screw friction but I did not expect at this price.

Have As for the biting nuisance odor which some described to me so I can only say: yes, it is really obtrusive (1 star deduction) and even after one week standing outdoors noticeable. To me, that almost one reason was the tripod to send back because the smell is transferred to the hands. NB The smell comes from the neoprene padding on 2 of the three tripod legs, reminiscent of Chinese plasticizer. I go even assume that in order to achieve this price, Mantona can customize the tripod in China.

What the tripod is missing is a spirit level on the ball head because it is important that the camera is correctly oriented when the stand (1 star deduction).

Overall, I must say that this stand has an excellent price-performance ratio and much stand for little money at this price Amazon offers.

Pros:

- Very stable in all positions (all metal)
- Suitable ball head for both cameras and videocams (and interchangeable)
- High load capacity of 5 kg
- Quick change system sound and no tolerance
- Carrying case and Allen key included in the price

Cons:

- No water level on the ball head
- Extremely pungent smell