Manfrotto 161MK2B Super Pro Tripod Mark 2 - Replaces 3258 3058 (Black)

Unreal! I shoot architecture professionally. I bought this mainly for exterior use (and yes, you need to schlep along a step ladder or some such to use it to its max). The build quality is great, though I do try not to over-tighten the lock nuts - Manfrotto products used be bomb proof but in the last few years they've gone to lesser quality materials IMO - Regardless this thing is impressive and the scale of it is hard to understand until you see it - by way of example I'll share that my 7 year old son, and a handful of his friends can easily fashion a teepee-like fort out of this and all stand up inside. I use it for interiors when ample space is available as it provides for an amazingly firm support at any height and is just as happy at chest height as it is at 105". The geared center column is beautifully machined and purpose built. Honestly, I'm surprised such noteworthy quality and scale is available at such a relatively reasonable price.

I finally bought it at this best price and delighted. Using big binos with 45-deg eyepieces makes a HD crank tripod a MUST else break your back. Comfortably supports Vixen 125mm or various 100mm models with their yoke adapters. Crank also great for sharing views with short or tall friends without losing pointing. The automatic feature preventing inadvertent drop down on the post is friendly and welcome. Without that, similar tripods are an accident just waiting to happen. Well-built and fall into the “good investment” cat. Recommended Manfrotto carry case MBAG120PN also good to haul and protect. This tripod just BARELY fits the bag - practice inserting and removing a couple times before taking it to the field.

I was probably expecting too much from a tripod this high, but it really is quite shakey. We were able to get good shots with a 5lb camera, but we did have to use a very light hand to avoid having the movement from the head get transferred into the tripod legs.It's not a bad tripod, I just expected more from Manfrotto, but it is very very tall

If you do video/photo at events that require you to shoot over the heads of your audience and stability is key this is the tripod for you. It is heavy and works best if you set it and leave it. I love the fact that you can make fine height adjustments using the center column. With the legs independently adjustable, you can setup even on uneven surfaces and get the perfect shot. Overall I am happy with the Manfrotto tripods I own.

Per the Manfrotto web page this is Manfrottos heaviest duty photo tripod.I bought mine from a used listing on Amazon so saved substantially on the cost. The version received was silver finish rather than the listed black but I prefer the silver anyway.Construction is precision such as there is no noticeable slop in the geared center column when raised whether the lock is tightened down or not. No visible or feelable slop in the leg hinges either. All in all an impressive tripod but heavy enough so it is not what I would call a readily portable unit.

I Love Manfrotto Products BUT This ONE Came MISSING PARTS, DAMAGED Metal Leg Pole Dented And ONE Leg Wouldn't Extend, Missing Screws and Near Top Black Paint All Scratched up. The Shipping Box was in Great SHape so This time Folks it was NOT do to S&H. Sold By an Outside Camera Company, Filled & Shipped By AMAZON, SAD. This is a Heavy Tripod and I have Now Re-Ordered with a company that stands by the sale & Product. Thanks

Absolutely rock-solid.If I was FORCED to find something negative to say, it would simply be that "it's heavy!".But then, again, if it wasn't - it wouldn't get the job done.

All the height I needed in a tripod and is extremely solid. When struck vibration are nearly nonexistent. Very flexible tripod to use.