Well, leave it to corporate marketing muckity mucks to fiddle around with something that has worked very well for a long time.  As I have recommended in previous articles, my choice for a mid-weight tripod is the Manfrotto 3001BD.  In an effort to "keep things fresh" that model, which has been produced for more than 20 years and is one of their best sellers, has been discontinued.  There are two models that have replaced it.  Knowing the quality of past Manfrotto (Bogen) products, I am confident that these new models will be just as good as the old one.  I do not yet have one in my hot little hands but I will soon.

The new models are Manfrotto 190XB (black) and 190XV (green).  Both are right at 4 lbs, have 3 leg sections with clamps and a center post.  That is just about the same specs as the old model which leads me to ask why the change?  Because some Vice President in the company wanted to that's why.  Great products.  Dumb management 
 
You can see both of these at Bogen Imaging www.bogenimaging.us under Manfrotto.  You can purchase these on line through Eagle Optics www.eagleoptics.com .

For lightweight tripods, I still like The Outdoorsmans www.outdoorsmans.com Tripod with their Lightweight Pistol Grip Head.  Thankfully, they have not changed the name of their product.

Thanks.

Wade Nelson
Editor

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