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Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head

  • Price: $169.95
  • B&H # OBAC1320BA1
  • Mfr# AC-1320/BA-1

Product Highlights

  • 17.6 lb Load Capacity
  • Maximum System Height of 65"
  • Collapses Down to 27"
  • All Anodized Aluminum for Max Stability
  • Cast Aluminum Chassis
  • Lightweight - Weighs Just Over 4 lb
  • 5 Bubble Levels
  • Removable Head

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The Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head provides a sturdy base of support for any DSLR or point-and-shoot camera, or a compact camcorder. The head/tripod combination weighs only 4.2 lb and bears 17.6 lb, to support DSLR cameras even as they're equipped with long zoom lenses and multiple accessories.

The AC-1320's three-section aluminum legs are composed of high-tensile-strength, extremely lightweight extruded aluminum. The legs and center column extend to a maximum height of 65". When folded, the entire system contracts to a compact 27". Two flip locks on each leg enable extremely fast deployment and retraction of leg stages. Three leg angles are possible, and pull-out/press-in locks secure the legs in their notches. The legs' angles are independently adjustable to accommodate shooting on uneven terrain. At the widest leg angle, the tripod sits extremely close to the ground to facilitate low-angle shooting.

The AC-1320's rapid center column extends with a twist of the butterfly knob. For protection when it's retracted quickly, there's a rubber damper that protects the center-post collar. Locking screws underneath the collar enable you to fasten the head securely to the center-post collar. By twisting the spring-loaded hook at the bottom end, the center column becomes removable and reversible, for a second method of achieving extremely low-angle shots. The center column's hook holds a counterweight, in case you need additional system stability in windy conditions.

The included quick-release plate attaches to your camera via its standard 1/4"-20 screw. A retractable, removable video pin provides additional stability for camcorders. The quick-release plate easily snaps and locks into place on the BA-1 head. The safety lock on the quick-release mechanism prevents the camera from loosening inadvertently.

The BA-1 head's single-action knob allows you to unlock all axes of movement in one fell swoop, so you can quickly orient your camera properly, retighten the knob, and return to shooting. The ball-locking mechanism is remarkably strong for reliably stable performance. A friction-lock coating on the tripod collar's base plate extends this rock-like solidity to the head's connection point with the tripod itself.

The head's four bubble levels (one is a spirit level) will tell you whether or not your framing hews to the horizon, in both portrait and landscape orientation of the head. (There's a second spirit level on the tripod chassis.)

The head pans a full 360°, and degree markers around its base help you properly orient your shooting. The BA-1 features a 90° groove for tilting the camera to portrait orientation.

Tripod features reversible 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 screw to fit almost any head
Spring-loaded counterweight hook at the bottom of the center column
Leg warmers on two legs mitigate the effects of extreme heat & cold and provide grip
Two included Allen keys attach to a tripod leg, so you're always ready to tighten components
Padded carry bag provides a snug fit for the tripod/head combination and features two heavy-duty zippers, an interior pocket with a zipper, and a shoulder strap
Adjustment locks keep legs at the chosen angles
Center column is grooved to prevent rotation
Angled rubber feet
General
Load Capacity 17.6 lb (8 kg)
Maximum Height 65" (165.1 cm)
Maximum Height w/o Column Extended 55.2" (140.2 cm)
Minimum Height 17.3" (43.8 cm) 1
Please Note:

Lower heights are possible with column reversed

close
Folded Length 27" (68.6 cm)
Weight 4.2 lb (1.9 kg)
Head
Head Type Single-lever ball head
Quick Release Yes, with 1/4"-20 screw & retractable video pin
Legs
Material Aluminum
Head Attachment Fitting 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 via reversible screw
Leg Stages/Sections 2/3
Leg Lock Type Flip-lock
Independent Leg Spread Yes
Spiked/Retractable Feet No
Center Brace No
Center Column
Center Column Type Rapid (grooved, reversible, non-rotating)
Center Column Sections 1
Bubble Level 5 (1 on chassis, 4 on head)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
ObenAC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head
 
4.7

(based on 38 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (26)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (12)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Easy to use (30)
  • Durable (29)
  • Lightweight (22)
  • Compact (13)
  • Stable (7)

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Landscape/scenery (32)
    • Family photos (20)
    • Wildlife photos (15)
    • Travel (11)
    • Sports/action (10)
      • Reviewer Profile:
      • Photo enthusiast (19), Casual photographer (6), Semi-pro photographer (6), Pro photographer (5)
      • Was this a gift?:
      • No (37)

    Reviewed by 38 customers

    Sort by

    Displaying reviews 1-20

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    Previous | Next »

     
    5.0

    More bang for the buck

    By Milehi Bones

    from Colorado

    About Me Photo Enthusiast

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Durable
    • Easy to Use
    • Lightweight

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Landscape/Scenery
      • Sports/Action
      • Wildlife Photos

      Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

      Just what I was looking for and included ball head. After narrowing choices, I called B&H to ask a few additional questions to make a decision. The CS rep was well versed and made the decision easy. Unlike, other places pushing higher priced items, this one turned out to save me over $200 for same features- Thanks B & H!

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

       
      5.0

      I am very happy with this product

      By Kris

      from Nashville, TN

      About Me Casual Photographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Compact
      • Durable
      • Easy to Use

      Cons

      • Storage case small

      Best Uses

      • Family Photos
      • Landscape/Scenery
      • Travel

      Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

      The only thing I am not to happy about is trying to get the tripod into the carrying case - its pretty tight and takes some time to get it in. If it was a bit bigger I would have no issues at all.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

       
      5.0

      Very Nice Tripod

      By Von Baron

      from Orcutt, CA

      About Me Photo Enthusiast

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Compact
      • Durable
      • Easy to Use
      • Lightweight

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Family Photos
        • Landscape/Scenery
        • Video

        Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

        This is a very nice tripod. It is sturdy and appears to be well made. It is pretty light for carrying and comes with a nice case.

        • Was this a gift?:
        • No

        Share this review

         
        5.0

        Works great!

        By Ron H.

        from Sedro Woolley, WA

        About Me Photo Enthusiast

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Durable
        • Easy to Use
        • Lightweight

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Landscape/Scenery
          • Video
          • Wildlife Photos

          Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

          I like that it is lightweight, strong, adjusts well - just what I wanted.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Share this review

           
          5.0

          Great Product

          By fishhook

          from San Saba, TX

          About Me Semi-pro Photographer

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Durable
          • Easy to Use
          • Lightweight

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Family Photos
            • Landscape/Scenery
            • Weddings/Events
            • Wildlife Photos

            Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

            Bought this tripod because the tripod I was using was not steady enough to hold camera when using my canon 70x200 lens. It works great holds it steady at any angle. This is my first tripod with a ball head. It is great.

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

             
            5.0

            recommendation very helpful

            By Comfygirl

            from Fort Dix New Jersey

            About Me Casual Photographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Durable
            • Easy to Use
            • Lightweight

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Sports/Action
              • Video

              Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

              This was recommended by customer service on line and it is everything it claims, lightweight and sturdy.

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

               
              5.0

              Great tripod for the money

              By TAB

              from Birmingham, AL

              About Me Photo Enthusiast

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Easy to Use
              • Lightweight

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Family Photos
                • Landscape/Scenery
                • Travel

                Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                Lighweight, sturdy.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Share this review

                 
                4.0

                Really nice product

                By tmpeg

                from Florida

                About Me Casual Photographer

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Compact
                • Durable
                • Easy to Use
                • Lightweight

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Family Photos
                  • Landscape/Scenery
                  • Video

                  Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                  great tripod for the dollar,no problems with it yet..nice carry bag for it also.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Great Product

                  By Art

                  from Ga.

                  About Me Photo Enthusiast

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Durable
                  • Easy to Use

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                      Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                      Love the quick disconnect. Strong and secure connection.

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Share this review

                       
                      5.0

                      High quality, low price

                      By Uphillrider

                      from Amherst, MA

                      About Me Photography Student

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Compact
                      • Durable
                      • Easy to Use
                      • Lightweight

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Family Photos
                        • Landscape/Scenery
                        • Sports/Action

                        Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                        I use this tripod for home movies and indoor action shots. It sets up fast, is easy to carry and works great! I would definitely recommend it to a friend.

                        • Was this a gift?:
                        • No

                        Share this review

                         
                        5.0

                        Worth the money

                        By Gregg

                        from Colorado

                        About Me Photo Enthusiast

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Durable
                        • Easily Adjustable
                        • Easy to Use

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                          • Landscape/Scenery
                          • Long exposure
                          • Timelapse

                          Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                          I purchased this as an upgrade for a flimsy [@]special. It is very easy to use and very sturdy. It is made of quality materials and even the plastic peices are high quality and don't feel cheap.It is a great entry level tripod.

                          Share this review

                           
                          5.0

                          Great Tripod

                          By Nooyorker

                          from Philadelphia

                          About Me Photo Enthusiast

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Compact
                          • Durable
                          • Easy to Use
                          • Lightweight

                          Cons

                            Best Uses

                            • Family Photos
                            • Landscape/Scenery
                            • Sports/Action
                            • Travel
                            • Wildlife Photos

                            Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                            Best buy for the price. Good quality and capable of holding my 50D with 70-200mm LensM

                            • Was this a gift?:
                            • No

                            Share this review

                            (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                             
                            4.0

                            Great Tripod for the cost

                            By Ben

                            from Seattle, Wa

                            About Me Photo Enthusiast

                            Pros

                            • Easy to Use
                            • Lightweight
                            • Stable

                            Cons

                            • Ball head hard to turn
                            • Bulky

                            Best Uses

                            • Family Photos
                            • Landscape/Scenery
                            • Travel
                            • Video
                            • Wildlife Photos

                            Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                            I use this product mainly for photography and a mix of video. I have used it for a few assignments that I have had to do. I was excited to get it and used it the moment I opened the box. I was originally looking for a tripod with a tilting center column, but when I saw that you could flip the column I couldnt complain. The only real issue that i encountered is the fact that when you flip the column upside-down, you cannot get a level shot. Other then that, this is an amazing tripod

                            • Was this a gift?:
                            • No

                            Share this review

                             
                            4.0

                            Less moving parts, very light yet sturdy

                            By Abishesh

                            from Jersey City, NJ

                            About Me Photo Enthusiast

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Compact
                            • Durable
                            • Easy to Use
                            • Lightweight

                            Cons

                              Best Uses

                              • Family Photos
                              • Landscape/Scenery
                              • Travel
                              • Weddings/Events
                              • Wildlife Photos

                              Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                              My D300 with Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX and SB-900 seem light for this tripod. Very easy to use and spirit levels are very useful. Good product overall.

                              • Was this a gift?:
                              • No

                              Share this review

                               
                              5.0

                              Great product highly recommended

                              By Doug R

                              from Southern New Hampshire

                              About Me Photo Enthusiast

                              Verified Buyer

                              Pros

                              • Compact
                              • Durable
                              • Easy to Use
                              • Lightweight

                              Cons

                                Best Uses

                                • Family Photos
                                • Landscape/Scenery
                                • Sports/Action
                                • Travel
                                • Wildlife Photos

                                Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                                This is my first "real" tripod and I can't say enough good things bout it. I spent the better part of a week researching other brands, Benro, Manfrotto, etc. and finally decided on this unit. Construction is top notch right out of the bag and easily supports my D90 with the 70-200mm lens. Even the bag (which is usually an aftermarket purchase with the others) is of top notch construction. If you are at all on the fence about buying this product don't hesitate and jump right on over. I'm glad I did.

                                • Was this a gift?:
                                • No

                                Share this review

                                 
                                5.0

                                More than I expected

                                By Bobbie

                                from Flolresville, TX

                                About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                Verified Buyer

                                Pros

                                • Compact
                                • Durable
                                • Easy to Use
                                • Lightweight

                                Cons

                                  Best Uses

                                  • Family Photos
                                  • Landscape/Scenery
                                  • Sports/Action
                                  • Wildlife Photos

                                  Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                                  Salesman picked this out for me...I was surprised how easy it is to use and how well built it is.

                                  • Was this a gift?:
                                  • No

                                  Share this review

                                   
                                  4.0

                                  Rugged Pod

                                  By Slayman

                                  from Birmingham,AL

                                  About Me Pro Photographer

                                  Verified Buyer

                                  Pros

                                  • Compact
                                  • Durable
                                  • Easy to Use
                                  • Lightweight

                                  Cons

                                    Best Uses

                                    • Family Photos
                                    • Landscape/Scenery
                                    • Weddings/Events

                                    Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                                    I have been using an old tripod that will barely hold cam/flash combo. I have a good bracket and this sturdy tripod handels the load with ease. Nice carrying case. Entire unit fairly lightweight.

                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                    • No

                                    Share this review

                                     
                                    5.0

                                    Great Tripod!!!

                                    By Photo Dude

                                    from Portland, Oregon

                                    About Me Pro Photographer

                                    Verified Buyer

                                    Pros

                                    • Durable
                                    • Easy to Use
                                    • Lightweight

                                    Cons

                                      Best Uses

                                      • Family Photos
                                      • Landscape/Scenery
                                      • Weddings/Events

                                      Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                                      I'm a photographer for a few major footwear brands in America. I use the tripod a lot for my model/talent photography as well as product shots. It works great! Great quality for the price! I would definitely recommend it to anyone who needs a good tripod at a reasonable price.

                                      • Was this a gift?:
                                      • No

                                      Share this review

                                      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                                       
                                      5.0

                                      Great tripod!

                                      By Matt

                                      from Oneonta, AL

                                      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                      Verified Buyer

                                      Pros

                                        Cons

                                        • Weight

                                        Best Uses

                                        • Family Photos
                                        • Landscape/Scenery
                                        • Travel

                                        Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                                        I spent a lot of time researching and looking at different tripods in the sub-$200 range, as I wanted to do more landscape and night photography (but didn't want to spent $500+ just yet). I finally settled on this oben tripod & ballhead combo.

                                        It has been great so far and the ballhead has no problem holding my 7D+battery grip+70-200mm lens. The included case is quite nice as well.

                                        While it's not the lightest tripod ever, you will definitely get your money's worth with this tripod.

                                        • Was this a gift?:
                                        • No

                                        Share this review

                                         
                                        5.0

                                        A Great Tripod

                                        By Karpman

                                        from Colorado

                                        About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                        Verified Buyer

                                        Pros

                                        • Durable
                                        • Easy to Use
                                        • Great Picture Quality
                                        • Lightweight

                                        Cons

                                          Best Uses

                                          • Landscape/Scenery
                                          • Wildlife Photos

                                          Comments about Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head:

                                          I just returned from a trip in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, so I had a good chance to this tripod a lot. It is very easy to use. I especially like the quick release mounting plate, and the BA-1 ball head provides great control. Even with my heavy tele-zoom lens, this tripod is rock solid. A perfect combination of capacity, control, and still light weight. The carrying case is a real plus.I'm completely satisfied!!

                                          • Was this a gift?:
                                          • No

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                                          Displaying reviews 1-20

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                                          Adapter Bushings

                                          Oben -  3/8"-16 to 1/4"-20 Reducer Bushing
                                            • Original: $2.49
                                            • Save: $0.25
                                          • Price: $2.24
                                           

                                          Quick Release Plates

                                          Oben -  RP-20 Quick Release Plate
                                            • Original: $12.99
                                            • Save: $1.30
                                          • Price: $11.69
                                           

                                          Keep a spare plate handy.

                                          Straps

                                          OP/TECH USA -  Tripod Strap (Nature)
                                          • Price: $21.04
                                           

                                          Dollies

                                          Pearstone -  DWL-2 Universal Tripod Dolly
                                            • Original: $41.95
                                            • Save: $4.19
                                          • Price: $37.76
                                           

                                          Sandbags/Weight Bags

                                          Impact -  Empty Saddle Sandbag - 5 lb (Black Cordura)
                                            • Original: $13.95
                                            • Save: $1.39
                                          • Price: $12.56
                                           

                                          General Tripod Accessories

                                          Tripad -  Tripod Mountable Workspace with Slide-out Extensions
                                          • Price: $89.99
                                           

                                          What's in the Box

                                          Oben AC-1320 3-Section Aluminum Tripod with BA-1 Ball Head
                                           
                                           
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