Review on Manfrotto MT190GOC4US: Carbon Fiber 4-Section Tripod for Ultimate Stability and Versatility by Jason Matthews

I ordered this tripod not long ago but unfortunately had to return it. The new M-lock on the legs is actually a pain compared to traditional Manfrott dials. The original dials are so smooth and simple. It only takes a quarter turn to loosen and lengthen the legs. However, with M locks, you need to turn them 2-3 times to loosen and lengthen the legs. Also, the rubber grip on the M locks is very loose. They aren't glued or anything, they slip out easily when you zip up which is very frustrating as you have to go back and realign the rubber grip with the zip. Another issue I have with this tripod is that the carbon fiber on the tripod is quite odd. If you loosen the locks to lengthen it, it's quite difficult to pull the legs out. This can be due to a feeling of stubbornness in the legs. It's just weird. On the positive side, the tripod is very compact and light. You can easily add any Manfrotto head to this tripod for a portable yet robust system. I would actually call it a travel tripod without the reverse function you see on other travel tripods. This would be the perfect tripod if it weren't for the issues I mentioned earlier.