A tri-pod in it's simplest form is a three-legged stand for supporting a camera or other apparatus. I've used several tripods throughout the years, and each one excels at one thing or another. Some are light, some are super sturdy, and some are miniature making them easy to pack away or carry on a day trip.

For my general photography use (product photography, long exposures) I've found that finding the right set of compromises leads to the best tripod for my needs. That's where I've found the K&F to excel at meeting my specific set of needs. Here's what I like:

The tripod is light. It's not feather weight, or forget it's there light, but it's light enough to be able to carry around all day strapped to a comfortable camera bag. Weighing in at just 3.3 lbs, it's about as light of a travel tripod built of aluminum I could expect.

Completely folded, this tripod is about 17 inches long. Plenty of "collapsability" to be able to pack it on the side of your bag without it sticking up in the air.

This tripod feels really well built for being a sub $100 travel tripod. When you hold it, it feels and looks substantial. Not heavy, just very tight tolerances, and generally aesthetically pleasing. The anodizing on the aluminum lock-outs and ball head are a really nice touch. It is rated to hold 22lbs/10kg. I'm certain it will hold that easily, if not more. The rubber grips are all implemented nicely with zero movement between the rubber grip and the lock out it turns.

So, the absolute most important factor for me in a tripod, is obviously the stability. While this tripod will extend to almost 69 inches/175 cm, it's most stable when the center support is at the mid to low setting, and only the top three leg extensions are out. It's absolutely rock solid at it's med high, to mid level settings. When everything is extended to full height, a strong wind would absolutely introduce some movement.

Leg lock outs are as expected. They lock out firmly and confidently when unfolding. When extending the legs, the rubber twist locks are easily tightened and I have zero doubt about their ability to stay put.

The 28mm ball head is surrounded by what looks like a teflon sleeve offering smooth camera movements. The head also pans buttery smooth like a geared or fluid head would. The Arca-Swiss mount is a great option and seems to be the new standard in quick mounts. The Arca base also has a spirit level which is handy if your camera doesn't have in-camera level indication.

One leg is designed to be used as a monopod. I don't use that feature, but it's nice to have and easy to transition. Under center post is a bag or weight hook. This can be removed revealing a 3/8 female mount. Great for mounting a second ball head for quick camera position swaps. My only gripe would be that the feet are not replaceable. They are shallow spiked rubber feet that are not interchangeable. They work fine for light duty use.

All in all, I am very happy with this tripod purchase. At $90, I'm not sure you could get a better photo tri-pod for general use photography. It's lightweight, stable, and looks great. Just buy this tripod already, you won't be disappointed.