Celestron - TrailSeeker 70.5" Tripod

I was really hoping this tripod was going to work for me but it didn't. First off, trying to attach my camera to the quick release platform was a bear. The pop-up button on the platform kept popping up and locking into place so that I couldn't seat the camera. If I opened the quick release handle up it would go up. So if I closed the handle at a little I couldn't get it in. As far as I recall anyway, as I have returned it. The whole point of a quick release is to be able to get off the tripod quickly, and then back in. I tried it out at home but made the mistake of using it to videotape our church service and I just couldn't seat the camera. Fortunately, I had brought my regular tripod so used that but ended up missing the beginning of the service. Also, because the legs are easily moved, they do not lock into place, and getting them even in a hurry is frustrating. If you just want to use this for still photography or bird watching in a set-up and forget it type of situation it would be fine. But certainly not if you need to move around and make adjustments. The fluid head seemed fine, although I didn't really get a chance to use it much. It was a little stiff perhaps but not jerky so that is a plus. It did have a small weight hook on the bottom which I wanted so I could hang my ext battery on but it was not enough to persuade me. I'm staying with my lightweight Zomei for the moment, even if the head is not as smooth as I would like.

I use the tripod with my 20X70 binoculars; it really helps to steady the large binoculars to star hop and for watching perched birds. Lightweight but very sturdy.

EASY TO USE AND SET UP. USE IT WITH MY CELESTRON M100 HD

I have a fairly heavy Celestron C90 Mac spotting scope and this holds it very well. The legs are strong and adjustable in ways that other tripods that I've owned aren't. Even on a windy day, the bag hook on the bottom allows you to add some weight and stabilize the tripod quite nicely. The carry bag is well built and makes it easy to carry it out into the field.