fiat76 Loc: PA, MD, and SC

I will try to be brief: I upgraded my camera and lenses, and I need to invest in a sturdier tripod (currently have a Promaster 7100). I searched the UHH archives for previous posts (some several years old) and gleaned some good advice/websites/reviews. I am a photography enthusiast, and I shoot flowers, landscapes, macro, and soon, a baby (grandbaby due on May 18). My current longest lens is a 70-300mm. I don’t jump out of airplanes, spend days hiking in the Tetons, or trek in the Arctic. Features I would like: portability/compactness, twisties on legs to tighten, feet with spike options, a short center column, Arca Swiss quick release, 4 leg sections, able to convert to a monopod, ability to adjust legs to use low to the ground/uneven terrain. Dithering about: carbon fiber (more expensive, lighter) vs. aluminum (less expensive, sturdier), ball head or three-way head, and do I need an L-plate for my camera? Brands I have reviewed: Really Right Stuff, Manfrotto, Vanguard, LeFoto, Induro, Gitzmo, ZOMEi, Buddiesman, Bogen, Promaster, Fotopro, Sirui. As you can see, some are the Rolls Royces of tripods, some are Hondas, and some are Dodge Colts. Does anyone have any suggestions as to a mid-range tripod ($) that will meet my needs, even if it just means with your advice, I will be able to focus on two or three manufacturers. Thank-you in advance. You can PM me if you wish.

PixelStan77 Loc: Vermont/Chicago

Gitzo or Sirui Carbon Fiber.

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

I like my 3 Legged Thing Eddie Evo 2 CF travel tripod. Meets mostly all of your needs, however, it has been discontinued. When new, they sold for about $600. I'm assuming when you said 4 legs, you meant 4 leg sections?

fiat76 Loc: PA, MD, and SC

yes...4 legs.sections...whoops!

cessnalvr Loc: West virginia

I bought a nest from carters camera cottage. So far i like it. Give him a call or send him a message

LoneRangeFinder Loc: Left field

Here’s my suggestion: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/994932-REG/sirui_bsrn2204x_n_2204x_carbon_tripod.html?ap=y&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIwZSx5fKH2wIVEMJkCh20XgLNEAQYASABEgLMJfD_BwE

Although I’m not suggesting one I have, I do use a Sirui Ballhead with an Arca-type head, and they are quality made. I have handled these in my local retail shop. These are lightweight, small size. The twist locks seem to hold very well & you will not regret an Arca type release.

Happy hunting. You’ll get many suggestions—all well-intentioned.... if Gene51 chimes in, please consider his suggestions.

Silverman Loc: Michigan

I found a USED Sunpak 6060XL Tripod at "Goodwill" store for $5.00, it seems to be well built, sturdy, with excellent added features, so check Ebay and other used Photography equipment sites, you may find a real bargain.

fiat76 Loc: PA, MD, and SC

thank-you, LoneRangerFinder!

fiat76 Loc: PA, MD, and SC

Just started searching for used equipment!!!!

Silverman Loc: Michigan

Sunpak Pictures Plus 6060 Medium Duty Tripod
Brand New
5.0 out of 5 stars - Sunpak Pictures Plus 6060 Medium Duty Tripod 1 product rating
$14.99Buy It Now+$12.33 shipping
3 new & refurbished from $14.99

This is EBAY

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

This doesn't meet many of the OP's requirements. Only holds 4.4 lbs as well

duane klipping Loc: Bristow iowa

What do you consider mid range? Also the more sections you have on the legs the more shake that can be introduced. I stick with 3 sections for this reason. With all that said I have a Vanguard and am very happy with the performance, price was around 130.

fiat76 Loc: PA, MD, and SC

3 legs vs. 4 legs....3 legs for more stability makes sense! Thanks for your input.

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

What height pod would you need? you didn't say...

fiat76 Loc: PA, MD, and SC

I am only 5'3" tall. Without the center column being extended significantly, I would like to be able to look into my viewfinder/LCD display without stooping over excessively (when I am not shooting close ups). I would like to be able to splay the legs to shoot low to the ground rather than reversing the center column; however, I might invest in a mini-tripod (a Gorilla) for those situations, and in that case, splaying the legs to shoot low would be a moot point.
Thanks for responding! My Promaster 7100 has a maximum height of 61"; 3-legs.