Manfrotto 190XV, 700RC2

The Manfrotto 190XV tripod--which comes with the company's 700RC2 mini video head--shares the same high-quality features as the standard 190XB model, but comes with top leg sections that are finished in a dark green color that's styled for the outdoor enthusiast. The 190X tripod series builds on the success of the 3001 series, but has been redesigned to offer better ergonomics and improved function. The 190XV is distinguished by its revamped aluminum frame, which is lighter than previous incarnations and slightly more compact. As a result, it's more convenient to bring this tripod along on shoots without weighing yourself down. Plus, the ergonomics of the leg-angle release mechanism and the quick-action leg locks have also been greatly improved, making it a breeze to open, position, and close the tripod in just a few seconds. Best of all for cold-weather photographers, the 190XV includes leg warmers on two of the legs, so you can handle the tripod in extreme weather conditions. And should you need to balance the tripod on an uneven surface, you can set each of the legs to a different spread angle over the tripod's center of gravity--a must for nature shots on outdoor terrain. The tripod can reach a maximum working height of 57.5 inches and a minimum height of 3.1 inches using the low-angle adapter built into the center column. The 190XV is ideal for outdoor use with cameras up to SLR size with a medium pro zoom lens attached. The compact and lightweight two-movement 700RC2 video head, meanwhile, is principally designed to support the latest digital video equipment, but is also suitable for spotting scopes and still photography cameras with medium and long tele lenses. The 700RC2 is equipped with a fixed-length pan bar with a soft handle, along with separate locking mechanisms for the 360-degree pan and the +90/-75 degree tilt. The fixed system of fluid cartridges contribute by ensuring smooth and constant movements on both axes. Add in a quick-release 200PL-14 video plate system with a VHS pin and a secondary safety catch and you have an ideal video head for almost any application. The 700RC2 also works with the optional 200PL-38 plate.