In my experience, you can't go wrong with a Velbon DV7000. Usually �100 new, but if you look around on Ebay/Amazon you can pick them up for about �75. Maybe �50 for second hand if you're lucky.

Sturdy, pretty well made, smooth head... probably the best you can get before you start paying the more expensive prices.

I own Vanguard Alta Pro 263AT! Could not get better value for the money

Vanguard's Alta Pro 263 AT Aluminum Tripod is lightweight (4.4 lb) and an extremely versatile camera support. It features a unique Multi-Angle Central Column System (MACC) which allows you to position the center column at angles from 0 - 360� in variable vertical and horizontal positions. This gives you amazing flexibility in how your camera is positioned

For video. Just got a Manfrotto 290 Xtra for $225us. Extends 5'4". Light. Smooth head for panning and tilting. Fairly long arm. Traditional set-up. Would advise checking out tripods with camera in hand to test out and see what suites you best.

I'm done with Manfrotto. Some of their components keep cracking. They are $50 to replace. I just replaced one eight months ago and the new part cracked again just from sitting in my garage. Cheap pot metal for a $700 tripod. Contacted customer support and al they did was link me to their component site to purchase another spare. FK THEM.

I am not back in the market for a video tripod but also want a very good, study one I can use for time lapse in addition to panning.

For video. Just got a Manfrotto 290 Xtra for $225us. Extends 5'4". Light. Smooth head for panning and tilting. Fairly long arm. Traditional set-up. Would advise checking out tripods with camera in hand to test out and see what suites you best.

I'd love to check out some tripods in person, but no stores near me seem to have any, or any good ones.  Thanks

Quote from: Asthebelltolls on February 10, 2017, 18:26

For video. Just got a Manfrotto 290 Xtra for $225us. Extends 5'4". Light. Smooth head for panning and tilting. Fairly long arm. Traditional set-up. Would advise checking out tripods with camera in hand to test out and see what suites you best.

I'd love to check out some tripods in person, but no stores near me seem to have any, or any good ones.  Thanks

But you can see the problem with asking a forum. Opinions all over the place. So how do you truly know what'll best suite your individual needs? BTW. I've used Manfrotto and Sachtler tripods for over 40 years and have never had a problem.....