TechRadar Verdict
Pros
- +
Legs boast advanced features that are quick and easy to use
- +
Well implemented 180 degree centre column pivot facility
- +
Very good build quality ensures stability
Cons
- -
Pistol grip head lacks firm clamping action and is fiddly to use
- -
AGH kit isn't much of a money-saver
- -
Tension adjustments have cross-head screws instead of allen key screws
Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
There's often money to be saved by buying a complete kit that includes both tripod and a tripod head in one package. In this case, however, the Vanguard Alta Pro 263AT legs sell for around £125 on their own and the GH-100 pistol grip head is available for about £85 if you shop around. Buying them as kit you can expect to pay around £195, so you'll only save about £15. Even so, there are plenty of novel features to capture the interest.
The Vanguard Alta Pro 263AT tripod has a sturdy aluminium construction with a maximum load rating of 7kg. The GH-100 pistol grip ball head is a close match, rated at 6kg and, indeed, they look every inch as if they're made to be together.
When combined, the photography tripod and head enable a minimum shooting height of 68cm, which rises to 175cm with the centre column fully extended.
The kit folds down to a carrying height of 73cm. Like most modern tripods, the three-section legs have highly effective, quick-action clip-locks and, more unusually, the rubber feet come complete with retractable spikes which are good for offering a stable platform when shooting on carpet or loose ground.
Leg diameters range from 26mm to 23mm to 20mm, from top to bottom.
A full complement of advanced features includes three-position multi-angle legs, a bubble level on the tripod collar and a pivoting centre column. The pistol grip head is more unusual, with a trigger action to release the clamp and enable positional adjustments.
