Benro A-157M8 Mg-Aluminium M8 Tripod Supports 13.2 lbs with Quick Release, 3-Leg Sections and Magnesium Die-Casting Review

Much has been covered by other comments so I won’t re-hash everything here.
While I like the Tripod I have no clue why the listing mentions ‘Quick Release’. The legs are screw locks, so that’s not quick.
I had hoped that perhaps the tripod top had some sort of mounting plate that could release but that’s not the case.
The Tripod arrived with the wide screw mount, which usually acts as an adapter to various ball heads – sold separatley (I have a manfrotto 3229 which fit nicely).
I don’t remember seeing any details in the small instruction manual that was in the box, so it wasn’t until I read a review here that I realized the entire screw and nut can be removed and flipped over. The other side has a smaller diameter screw that mounts directly to the camera (you’ll lose ability to ’tilt’ if you chose this option and forgo the ball head though. NOTE: I did not see it originally, but the case has a hidden pocket inside with a wench and allen key set as well as a manual.
The Tripod is well built and rigid. I do like the liquid level and small compass. The shaft height does affect the lower limit height with the legs spread out. It would have been nice to see that shaft come in two sections so that the head would have been self supported.
(Min height without ball head – 13in. & with my ball head it’s: 15 1/2 in). The manual says that you can remove the shaft and insert it bottom-up. This will allow you to get your camera very close to the ground while shooting but I’m not a big fan of using my camera in upside down mode.
All in all, this is a solid unit and well worth the price compared to others out there in the marketplace with similar specs.
Benro A-157M8 Mg-Aluminium M8 Tripod Supports 13.2 lbs with Quick Release, 3-Leg Sections and Magnesium Die-Casting Feature
- Magnesium Die-Casting
- Improved dust and rubber-resistant leg lock design prevents dust or moisture from entering the interior of the leg twist-locks.
- Three leg-angle settings (24,55 & 80°).
- The retractable spring-loaded hook can be used to add stability with a sand bag or equipment bag.
- Rubber leg tips provide a secure grip both indoors and outdoors
Benro A-157M8 Mg-Aluminium M8 Tripod Supports 13.2 lbs with Quick Release, 3-Leg Sections and Magnesium Die-Casting Overview
Compared with Benro Generation ll A-series n6 Tripod, the main components of the M8 Tripod introduces Magnesium material which is 30% lighter yet offer superior stability and unti-vibration capacity. The legs use improved 1.2mm thick aluminum tubing and are integrated into a design which maximizes their strength. Magnesium is used to complete the tripod for a result that’s 20% lighter you’ll appreciate it when working in the field. Benro Mg-Aluminium M8 A-157m8 tripods features individual leg angle adjustments, Magnesium Die-Casting ,a reversible center column with spring loaded weight hook, foam leg grips, anti dust and moisture rubber leg lock grips, reversible 1/4-20 to 3/8″ mounting threads, a bubble level, and mounting set screws. • Improved dust- and rubber-resistant leg lock design prevents dust or moisture from entering the interior of the leg twist-locks. • Magnesium Die-Casting • Top-leg diameter of 24mm. • Three leg-angle settings (24,55 & 80°). • The three set screws in the camera platform can be used to permanently secure the head to the tripod, providing additional security. • Rubber leg tips provide a secure grip both indoors and outdoors. • The retractable spring-loaded hook can be used to add stability with a sand bag or equipment bag.
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