I use it for a DVD recorder and a camera. It is a nice solidly made tripod. It is simple to use and stores away nicely. I would purchase it again.

The elevation control (the tilting controlled by the large twist handle, not the thing which raises or lowers the center column) is a little shaky - when you tighten the control to lock elevation in place it will always be off from where you aimed.
Also, I wouldn't count on the levels for any serious work/projects. I've used this tripod for panoramas, but in order to get usable level shots I need to eyeball the center column and pan head for square a couple dozen times, adjust the legs accordingly.

That's perfectly reasonable for a cheap (under $30) tripod.

What's not reasonable is that after a dozen or so uses one of the leg latches broke and now I can't extend the middle section of the tripod. I expect better than that even for a toy tripod like this one.

Usually when something is so light you would think it's cheaply built. Not this. Very good product and smooth as silk. Everything overall is awesome.

I HAD A TRIPOD, BUT I NEDDED SOMETHING SMALL TO TAKE WITH ME ON TRIPS WHEN I TRAVELED BY TRAIN OR PLANE. THIS WAS THE ONE!! IT FITS INSIDE OF MY SUITCASE WITH NO PROBLEM. GREAT LITTLE TRIPOD!!

The Sunpak 8001UT Tripod is a great product. The quality you receive for the price is excellent! I have been using this as my main tripod for my Rebel XT with several different lens (35mm f/2,70-200mm f/4L), It is able to function just fine using even the heavier 70-200mm. The quick release mount works as one would hope, Quick, Safe and they even give you an extra plate for other cameras or to let a friend use while out shooting. The tripod is very light weight yet sturdy and durable even when fully extended.


During the last 8 months I put this tripod through intense use. Climbing mountains, Hiking in all sorts of weather conditions, Dropping it off ledges, Using it as a walking stick, In water, In Sand and in snow. It has stayed strong during all of this. But just last week I was simply walking with it in my hand and one of the legs broke. It seems the plastic piece that connects he hinge to the leg snapped off. Unfortunately I am unable to fix it.

With that said, This tripod is quite a good deal for its price. I believe you get much more than you pay for and then some. I have recommended this tripod to my friends I shoot with and they are also very happy with it. I will be buying another one of these real soon!

pros:
-light
-great price
-durable
-feels safe with your expensive camera on it
-Can stick it in a regular backpack
-Extra quick release plate
-bubble levels
-small spikes on bottom of legs

cons:
-does not come with free money
-does not dispense beer
-does not clean house

A great product!