Field Optics Research BT Precision FBT5436C Bowl Top Tripod (Carbon Fiber Legs)

excellent idea with very cheap implementation

The Positives This is a highly innovative design. The legs are removable, and the company offers leg extensions to increase the tripod's height. Very short 2-section legs are also available for prone shooting. Each leg can function as a monopod and easily convert into a trekking pole. Because I hike frequently and use Leki trekking poles, this design allows me to use the tripod legs as trekking poles, significantly reducing my pack weight on long hunts. Additionally, all replacement parts are readily available. The Negatives Unfortunately, the build quality is poor. The leg locks are built with wildly inconsistent tolerances. On my tripod, two legs extend under gravity, while the third requires a very hard pull. Furthermore, adjusting the tension takes too long. On any decent tripod today, the leg adjusters require only a positive 1/4 turn. On the BT Precision tripod, I have to loosen the adjusters by more than a full turn. There are also no leg stops, causing the legs to crisscross when collapsed. While converting the legs into trekking poles is a great idea, the spike design is flawed: 1. They are mounted via plain threads, which is a 100% guarantee that they will vibrate loose and fall out. 2. They are made of steel, which will wear out extremely fast on rocky trails. Leading trekking pole manufacturers always use carbide ends that can withstand heavy abuse. Conclusion This is an excellent idea with very cheap implementation. However, there are no flaws here that couldn't be fixed with a design revision. I recommend giving Field Optics Research time to improve this product