Slik F 740

I tried to order this Tripod through Flipkart but then it went "Out of stock" so I had to get it locally for Rs. 2600. This is really a value for money and I got this after a lot of research. I liked Simplex Professional Tripod as well (costing 5000) that was quite heavy, but it was too heavy and bulky to be carried around on trips. This tripod feels solid, stable yet light enough to be easily carried using one hand without tiring it at all. It also comes with a nice Nylon carry bag that takes it nicely and hangs on shoulder. IT supports all Amateur and professional Digital Cameras, DSLRs, Video Cameras, HandyCams etc. and it stands rock solid. Its operating load is written as 1.46kg but I read someone has tested it with 20kgs of artificial weight. 1.46 is a tiny weight that is hard to believe on this good tripod. So on the day I bought it, I fully extended the legs and center column, narrowed the width of legs a bit using center knob, locked it in place, then placed a cloth on camera fixture (to avoid scratching) and started putting Barbell plates 5 Kg each on top of it. I put 10Kgs, and No problem at all, No bending, no vibration nothing at all is felt on its legs and it stood solid. Tilting was a little stiff so I had to take out the Tilt adjustment screw and apply grease within after sanding the plastic bracket a bit and now its smooth enough. Spirit level helps on uneven surface and it has got a nice one. Rubber Feet ensures that it doesn't slip. Standing height is more than Adequate and I don't think one ever going to make it stand at its full height 99 percent times. There is a lock for EVERY movement in this Tripod, hence it will not move once you lock it which is really nice and this feature is not included in many other Tripods like Sony's.

Before I start off, keep in mind that this review is from a first time buyer, not a pro. So please do not expect very in-depth info on the tripod.

The Slik f740 is surprisingly light. I have not really compared it to anything but a few other tripods I have seen in stores. The quality of the legs is quite good (metal) and it feels quite sturdy. Some users claim it can carry much more than what it's rated for but I'm not too sure. Up to 1.5kg (as rated) can be used with confidence. The main head, and the crank etc are plastic. The finish of the plastic is quite frankly not good with a lot of rough edges and bad plastic, but it looks durable. The movement (crank and the standard 3-way) is not as fluid as I expected it to be (its a bit jerky). I'm not sure whether this problem is specific to this tripod or it's normal for something of this price. Just reducing the tight-ness helps but does not eliminate it. It has locks for most of the movements too. A bubble-level is also present but due to it's size, I have grave doubts about its utility. For the targeted audience I think it works.

The range, as in the height of the tripod is quite good and goes from about 50-160cm (including the centre-post and its not scientifically measured!)which is more than usable for most situations. It also comes with a quick release mechanism. Also included is a carry bag.

It is a wonderful tripod for the first-time buyer with almost everything one could ask for. It's cheap, has a lifetime warranty and does what it's meant to do. It might not have the fanciest tripod head or motorized pan etc but if you are like me, who cares? So, should you buy one? If you are anything more than a casual photographer...hell yeah!