Review on Vanguard VEO 2 204AB Black Aluminum Travel Tripod with VEO 2 BH-45 Ball Head: Ideal for Sony, Nikon, Canon, Fujifilm Mirrorless, Compact System Camera (CSC), DSLR Photography by Dwayne Pore

This is my second Vanguard tripod. I like a heavier one, but not for hiking. This works well with my Canon 80D and shorter lenses. However, I have found that I have to overtighten the ball knobs and then struggle to loosen them. Admittedly, the Tokina 14-20mm lens is a bit heavy, but from what I've read I didn't expect any issues with the combination of camera and lens weight. So I'm a bit disappointed. I found the tripod to be fairly stable when using the remote shutter release, but I used it in stable weather so I can't comment on wind effects. I think that can be the case with many inexpensive lightweight tripods. I could suggest a better ball head, but since weight is important when hiking with a travel tripod, you don't need anything too heavy. The height when folded and unfolded convinced me. If it were possible I would have opted for latching type foot locks rather than the rotary type that comes with this one. When turning, you need to find a good middle ground to facilitate length adjustment. I have locking locks on my large Vanguard tripod and find them more convenient to use. If you opt for the Vanguard and can save some extra cash, opt for the carbon fiber model if you like to travel to save weight. Aluminum isn't heavy, but the ounces saved can help.