Manfrotto 190XDB 3 Section Aluminum Tripod with Manfrotto 390RC2 Pan & Tilt Head

This is my first Manfrotto and I'll have to say I'm sold. If it were composite and a bit lighter for packing into the woods I would have given it a 5-star rating. For the price, I don't think you can go wrong though. My loaded Nikon D80, with Speedlight and medium lens was no problem to hold steady. Head movement is smooth but holds tight in adjusted positions. Quick release is a nice feature and also seats well in the head with minimum movement. Overall, good investment - great value for the money.