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BookmarkThe SLIK 504 QF II shares its leg set with the ABLE 300 DX, but it comes complete with a solid SLIK 2-way fluid pan head incorporating an easy to grip pan handle with full angle adjustments. The panhandle is long enough to give excellent leverage for smooth panning. There is a bubble level built into the base of the head so the tripod can be leveled quickly after being set up. The head also has a video quick release plate for fast mounting and un-mounting of the camera.
The legs of the 504 QF II set up and fold down securely, just loosen and tighten leg lock knob to extend or shorten them. 3 position leg locks make for easy set up on uneven ground or steps. These leg locks also allow the height of the tripod to lowered dramatically. Combine this feature with the 504 QF II/300 DX Short Column (optional accessory) and the tripod can be lowered to just 14 inches (350 mm) the for very low angle or macro videography in the field.
This lightweight video tripod folds down to just 27 inches, and with a weight of 5.6 lbs it's an excellent tripod to take on location.
I have a Nikon D90 slr. This camera has the ability to take video as well as stills. So I needed a tripod that would meet the needs of both. As a video tripod the Slik’s fluid head is silky smooth and makes panning a joy. Both horizontal and vertical movements are very smooth. This is helped by the long control arm that gives more leverage to your panning movements. The Nikon D90 is a heavier camera than the typical video camera and the extra weight is no problem for this tripod. I think it could handle a camera twice the weight of my camera.
As a still camera tripod it can rotate and hold my camera 90 degrees for a vertical shot. I was also pleasantly surprised to find out how easy it was to get a low shot. The legs can be spread in 3 different positions allowing the tripod to go lower with each adjustment. The lowest position is more practical if you have the optional short center column.
The tripod is a bit heavy at 5.6 lbs but it would cost considerably more for a tripod that weighs significantly less with the same abilities. Also the leg locks take a little more effort as they require a twisting motions as opposed to a snap lever. However when the legs are locked they are very secure.
The bottom line is this is a great tripod for a great price. What could be better?
I was looking for a tripod with fluid head for my HV30 and based on recommendations from photographers and Videographers, I decided to go for the Slik Tripod.
This product is very solid, easy to adjust and does not take room when folded.
Keep in mind that the HV30 is very light camcorder, so if you have a heavy camcorder, check the specs to see if it supports your cam’s weight.