Look on craiglist there all was tripods on there you don't have to buy new .I pick up a $300.00 tripod for $45.00.
I agree. Don't buy cheap. Also, dont overpay(RRS).
I'm enjoying the Induro carbon series legs paired with Manfrotto 3-way heads ad I also picked up the Induro 5-way head (PHQ-3), which is nicely machined and well damped.
I tend to submerge my legs, so I prefer a leg set that can be easily broken down and hosed off or soaked in the bath tub without requiring tools nor needing to re-grease springs/clamps afterward.
good luck. The good news is there are many tripod makers that have stepped up the game lately.
If you want to reply, then
register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.