For years I have cautioned folks against buying cheap tripods, there is no sense in putting $1000 of camera and lens on a cheap tripod that is not going to be able to hold your camera steady and worse may tip over. And then I discovered this Tripod, a friend on a tight budget was in need, the reviews on Amazon were excellent and I can now say after 9 months of use that this really is an amazing deal. For $45 you get a solid and stable tripod with ALL the features of a Gitzo or Manfrotto at a 1/4 of the price. Features:

• Adjustable height 18.5″ – 62″ (5 feet!!)
• Feet switch from rubber to spikes with a few twists
• weight 2.9 lbs
• Bubble level and compass
• Multi-angle leg adjustments
• Gear hook for increased stabilization
• Quick release w/ safety catch
• Padded carrying bag w/ shoulder strap
• Uppermost legs gently padded, helps when carrying and temps drop
• Removable Ball Head – lets you upgrade the head if you ever feel the need

Buy From Amazon Dolica 62-Inch Proline Tripod and Ball Head