compact yet sturdy tripods?

[Ken Fong]

Can anyone recommend a good choice for a full-size (not tabletop) tripod that is both compact yet sturdy?
It would be used for travel and will probably be checked in at the airport.

Thanks in advance,
Ken

[excessnoise]

After wasting my money on the "best" Ambico with plastic head, I bought a Manfrotto 3021Pro from B&H for under $190 US. Extremely rigid/study. Adjusts/locks in 4 positions (almost flat). Center post can be mounted sideways. They have lighter/smaller ones, i.e. model 3001, 3011. Not sure of the weight difference. 3021 is a little heavy (6.5lbs with a HD 3055 ballhead) but not bad. I think the head is 2.5lbs by itself. I haven't hiked 20 miles with it so that could change. I'm extremely happen with it thus far.

[CyberDyneSystems]

I have the Manfrotto/Bogen 3001 PRO and it is pretty sturdy!

It was an even $100.00 at Ritz

I really like the "Macro boom" for lack of a better word for it... the center pole can be removed from the legs and attached perpendicular to the ground,.. with the legs spread you can use this for a great low angle macro platform.

I personally feel that this tripod is up to the task of any lens up to the size of a 400mm prime. (maybe NOT that monster f/2.8 400mm!! )

400mm would be pushing it I'm sure,. but i do use it for a 500mm.... but it is not the best choice for such an application.

[RichardtheSane]

CDS, what is the lowest that tripod will go without removing the centre column?

I am looking for a tripod that will go down pretty low, but without too much alteration to the structure.
TIA

[Ken Fong]

Thanks all for the recommendations!
-Ken