I got to work with the Proline/Dolica tripod today. It is a very impressive little pod.
Firstly, the legs adjust to 3 different angles, the most extreme of which allows the legs to go perpendicular to the center column. The ball head mechanism is very smooth and precise, allowing fine adjustments with ease. Due to the various angles the legs are capable of doing, Macro work would be nice on this tripod.
In appearance, the pod is high tech looking and easy to use. The legs are very stable and lock quickly and nicely with the quick snap clips. The legs have padded, foam grips to ease carrying. And a neat feature is the very bottom of the center column which has a hook from which you could hang more weight if you felt it was necessary. I see immediate applications for this. If hiking, you could grab an available rock or two and suspend it from the hook via any means which is handy--a sock, for example. Then you could simply discard the rocks when you break setup and move on out. Very cool!
The feet have 2 stabilizers from which to choose. One is a chrome spike for biting into tough terrain. Another, for indoors and possible nice hardwood floors, is a rubber which grips without marring. The more you look, the more you might be amazed what your $39 is doing for you here.
A neat carry sack accompanies the pod. It has shoulder padding and is adjustable. There is a miniature compass. along with miniature bubble levelers on ball head and legs. Did I mention the whole setup only weighs 2.9 pounds, and is rated to support in excess of 13 pounds? Amazing!
I think there is more, but I do not want to write a book. Please, ask me if I can answer any questions you might have about this incredible value.
2 THUMBS UP!
Cons: Well, this will be a stretch, but if I must. The quick release mechanism could be more nimble. Also, the carry sack has a strange, chemical smell to it which is not overwhelming, but strange.
BTW, shipping was free.