Quote Originally Posted by ddt0725 View Post
Sounds like you are real close to deciding! The Vanguard looks good to me if it gives you everything you are looking for such as max. weight, height, etc. To me, 3-section legs are much better than 4. That bottom skinniest section makes me nervous on the 4 section ones.

Have you watched the videos on youtube? Some of those are pretty helpful. If you can get passed the one with the guy that was unpacking the Vanguard and he thought the stone bag was an umbrella for the camera in case it starts to rain, the ballhead at least didn't appear to have any sag with his gear on it.

Good luck! I am looking forward to hearing what you decide and to read a review from you!

Denise
Just when I think I am, I get doubts again. I don't know.

The manfrottos are popular and have the horizontal option, which looks cool, but are not without their detractors and don't include a strap or bag.

The Vanguard has even more flexibility, but it sounds like they should be avoided if comments here are representative.

Induro look good but their range is clear as mud. Those with the higher weight ratings are also heavy.

Three Legged Thing looks very cool,can be converted to a mono and is UK made. But they're more small time by the looks of it, and I couldn't find many reviews. Also, their range is confusing.

I think my criteria are:
Flexible in its use (i only plan on having one pod for a long while, so a jack of all trades)
Stability for current kit (1.5kg)
Fairly portable, (suitcase/large backpack, around 2kg?)
Price, around £200 depending on value for money.
Able to get the camera to around my height 5'10 / 176cm

Sorry just thinking out loud.