I bought this as a more portable alternative to the Davis Sanford Fm18 (which is one of the best tripods I have ever owned). The 2800 is very sturdy, pans and tilts smoothly, overall it is a great portable tripod. I use it with a canon 7d with battery grip, a flash and some pretty heavy lenses, as well as a canon Xh a1. My only reason for giving this tripod 4 stars is the fact that the knobs are made of fairly cheap plastic. Which will make you fearful that they will break (even know I don't think they will) plastic just does not inspire confidence. With that said the 2800 is a great portable tripod. If you are looking for a heavier duty tripod the Davis Sanford Fm18 is nearly perfect.