SLIK Camera Tripods

1 | Glenis

September 9th, 2009 at 2:39 am

A decent, small, lightweight tripod suitable for airline travel or hiking. The post inverts and can be used to hold a camera in place for copying photos when a scanner is unavailable.

FYI, I am 5’2″ and the top of the fully extended tripod is about level with my eyes.

Cons: This model lacks a quick-release lever. Might be too short for tall folks.
Rating: 4 / 5

2 | B. Levin

September 9th, 2009 at 3:38 am

I was looking for a hiking tripod to use with my entry level dSLR for my upcoming trip to Hawaii. I started with the Slik Sprint Pro. Even though it is small, it was still just a couple of inches too long for convenient packing in my camelback. Also, at full extension it seemed a bit flimsy. So I took the Pro back and got the Mini. I am very happy with my decison. The tripod is the prefect size for hiking. I can pack it easily in my Camelbak or strap it to the side of the backpack. It is so light you don’t think about it being there. It seems sturdier than the Pro model, but that is only because it just doesn’t extend as high. It is not a full size tripod (hence the mini designation) but it is tall enough for nearly any purpose.

The ball head worked fine. Not issue with the ball slipping. But I am currently looking for one with a quick release system. I think it will end up being more convenient to attach and detach from the tripod while hiking. Also, a couple of times I noticed that the camera had loosened on the screw. Nothing bad happens from thi except that you have to tighten the camera mount again. I think attaching a quick release plate very securely one time would solve this problem and remove the annoyance. The issue is finding a ball head that has a quick release and is still super light. The stock ballhead is VERY light so finding any other head of the same weight is nearly impossible. I’m still not not sure if I am going to go that route or leave things as is.

I can’t recommend this tripod enough if you are looking for something small and lightweight for hiking. It’s just great.
Rating: 5 / 5

3 | bvanstaa

September 9th, 2009 at 5:05 am

This is an excellent product.

It is the “mini,” of course, so I wasn’t expecting serious height. At full extension, it comes up to my stomach (I’m 5’8″), so it requires some bending to use. The legs have three set positions and each leg has four segments. This means that the tripod collapses into a foot-long package, which is an excellent travel length. The ball head is simple and basic, which is fine for travel. But my favourite aspect is how sturdy this tripod is, and I have nothing but good things to say about that.

I slung it on hikes, trains, planes, and trams all over Europe and never felt bothered by its presence at all.
Rating: 5 / 5