I bought this after seeing one at the Black Swamp Birding Festival in Ohio last year. So the obvious disclaimer is that I'm a birder and using this tripod with a scope and not a photographer. That said, I needed a tripod that would fit into my suitcase for flights and still be sturdy enough to use in the field. I have had it out in the field with my 80 mm Kowa scope and the results are encouraging. First, I have a 45 degree angle scope and am 5'9" tall. Any taller and a straight line scope would be too low. So, take this into account. It will not get up as high as my Monfrotto tripod. I note it is supposed to be able to manage a little over 8 pounds. I use a Monfrotto 3130 (I think) fluid head that weighs about 2.5 pounds and the Kowa scope at a little over 4.5 pounds. That is 7 pounds total. The tripod managed this well. It was sturdy enough to use without being a problem. That said, if doing distance work with a camera this might be an issue in the heavier camera set. I found the tripod easy to use I would prefer the lever locks on legs but realize that would have added weight or possibly length and it has to fit in a suitcase so I can manage with the threaded clamps provided. With wind I would have needed a weight but with a hook to hang such this would have worked well. So, I would recommend this tripod but be aware it is a light weight and compact unit (meaning not tall). It is well made as advertised and will hopefully serve well. I do know that the best review comes after months of use I'll repost if issues come up. So far, all is well 4 stars because I cannot speak to how well this will do over time. 5 stars for having it only a short time and being happy with it.