My main issue with the 190XPROB is that it's a bit heavy for hiking--after several miles toting it, it starts to feel like I'm carrying around 3 lead pipes. With the center column being the way it is, I can't remove it to save some weight. Using the center column in the horizontal position can also be a pain when I'm shooting low to the ground. With that being said, it is quite stable.
As for my shooting habits, I tend to be more of a weekend warrior as far as frequency is concerned.
Since it will be a bit before I'll be in a position to buy another tripod, moneywise , I'm going to see about getting another tripod strap (the first one got lost) and see if that'll help matters any.
Something else I've thought about doing is instead of replacing my tripod is to get a smaller lighter second tripod that would be easier to travel with when space and weight considerations are really important, such as longer hikes and travel by plane. My current tripod could still be used for shorter walks and car travel.
Believe me, I'd rather spend my money to feed my LBA habit
, but at the same time, I don't want to find myself continuously frustrated by my other gear.
Heather