Quote Originally Posted by ham View Post
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.
The main problem I had when I was looking for my tripod is that I had no local stores to try any of them out. It is really tough deciding on written specs and opinions of others. For just about every model, you will find one person that likes it and one person that doesn't. I would say your safest bet is to find somewhere that has a variety locally and try a few.

Vanguard - In my other thread, "I think I solved my tripod/angled center column dilemma", many thought the Vanguard was good for their needs from what I read. I guess good value for the price but of course their are better models with higher prices.
Manfrotto - I didn't even realize they don't come with a bag. Thanks for pointing that out, although now that I think of it, I haven't used my bag once.
Induro - I have walked many long hikes and always thought about how light my Induro is to carry and it's retracted size is perfect for hitching on to my bag.

Maybe, you might want to take a look at what some of the higher end models are priced at on the used market. Maybe you will find a good one in your price range.