This tripod overall is very sturdy and solidly build. One of the good points of this tripod is its weight and solid build construction, very good rubber footing design that is better than some of the expensive products out in the market. The buble level indicator is also good to have. I purchased this tripod for my Canon 40D because I need something that wouldnt be blown off by the wind or if someone inadvertently bump into it and won't topple down so easily. Also I was looking for tripod that would hold a mid-size telephoto lens with the D40. Unfortunately, I had to return the product back to Amazon, because the pan handle was bent as you screw tighten the pan handle it becomes a little bit distracting of which I am not sure if its a design or manufacturing problem. Also I find the 2 quick release plates that come with it are not metal (looks like hard plastic) and I wouldnt recommend risk mounting any Camera with telephoto lens (e.g Canon 70-200 2.8 IS USM) specially when tilting the quick release plate from horizontal to vertical for long periods. You get what you pay for and I would recommend paying a little bit more to get the quality for your purpose. Also if you want mobility speed for your application e.g wedding photography this is not the tripod for you. Anyway I got my refund back from Amazon after 3 weeks and just purchased a Manfrotto tripod for keeps.

Sadly, I returned this tripod and ordered a replacement. Sader yet is that I am now returning the replacement tripod also. Why? Because of a fatal flaw in the design. The tripod as a whole is quite nice--if just a tad heavy. However I need this tripod for panoramic shots using a panoramic head attached to the removable plate. The fatal flaw is that the head does not fully lock, so that when the camera is attached to the pano head the vertical tilt does not stay locked, and can topple the entire head. My much less expensive and "fancy" old tripod has a ratcheded vertical tilt so that when it is fully locked down it can not move even if forced. I actually called the company to see if this is a design flaw and they assured me that the replacement would fully lock. Alas, it doesn't. I would not recommend this for anyone using a pano head...as it will tip over.
DL in PS, CA

If you are looking for a great, reasonably-priced TALL tripod. this is it. I'm very happy with it and it's got a cool black finish.

I have had the tripod for a few weeks. I selected it because it had a decent capacity (11 pounds) and was quite sturdy. It arrived quickly, the product is as advertised. It is a bit heavy, not something you would go backpacking with, but I did not buy it for that purpose. I wanted something that I would put the Nikon digital SLR on and not have to worry that a gust of wind would tip it over. The legs are a little stiff when you go to setup or take down. That might change as I use it, not a huge issue. The knobs and crank seem to be well made, the head operates smoothly. I have been very satisified with the purchase.