The Alta Pro 263AB 100 Aluminum-Alloy Tripod Kit from Vanguard is a versatile and durable tripod designed to support up to 15.4 lb. It measures 28.1 inches when folded and includes an SBH-100 ball head with a QS-39 Quick Release Plate. The tripod's three-section legs feature an independent spread and flip locks for quick setup. The legs can be adjusted to a minimum height of 56 inches and a maximum height of 68.1 inches with the center column fully extended. Each leg is covered with foam for a secure and comfortable grip, and the rubber feet with twist-out metal spikes ensure stability on various surfaces, including soft and uneven ground.
The QS-39 Quick Release Plate is compatible with 1/4″-20 mounts and features a rubberized, non-slip platform. It attaches to the integrated clamp at the top of the ball head’s ball-and-socket joint via a knurled locking knob. The clamp also has two built-in bubble levels for precise leveling in both portrait and landscape orientations.
The SBH-100 ball head allows for swift adjustments by loosening its primary locking knob, enabling the ball-and-socket joint to swivel, angle, fully tilt, or return to its upright position. A secondary locking knob controls the head's 360° rotation, providing comprehensive movement options.
For added versatility, the center column is connected to the tripod by a fulcrum, enabling a 90° tilt upwards or downwards that can be locked into place. The center column assembly also allows for 360° of independent rotation, making it usable as an extendable cross arm or a miniature camera boom. This feature allows an attached camera to be easily raised towards elevated subjects or over scenes. Additionally, the camera can be positioned perpendicular to the tripod and extended beyond the legs, ideal for copy stand or macro photography. For ground-level subjects, the center column can achieve low angles while keeping the user comfortably positioned behind the camera.