I have a very stable Studex tripod, but it's very heavy, so I am looking for a lightweight travel tripod. In my search, I came across Benro's "Traveller Flat" tripods, available in aluminium and carbon versions, that are unique (as far as I know) in having the legs mounted in parallel (rather than forming a triangle), which allows them to fold completely flat. The design leaves no space for a centre column, but I am more concerned about stability.
Do you have any experience, either with one of the Benro models, or with a similar design? How do they compare with traditional tripods of similar weight?
I am looking to use the tripod with a spotting scope, and occasionally with a camera, up to 300mm.
Here is the link on the manufacturer's website, but you can find many more images using google's image search: http://www.benro.com/Products.aspx?cid=208&pid=209&nid=247
Do you have any experience, either with one of the Benro models, or with a similar design? How do they compare with traditional tripods of similar weight?
I am looking to use the tripod with a spotting scope, and occasionally with a camera, up to 300mm.
Here is the link on the manufacturer's website, but you can find many more images using google's image search: http://www.benro.com/Products.aspx?cid=208&pid=209&nid=247