Decent Compact Tripod Recommendations?

[mattzilla]

I've had a look through the other tripod threads on here, but haven't found any recommendations for very compact ones.

Basically i'm after one that folds up to no more than 12-18 inches, but is still pretty durable. It's only for a digital compact (Powershot S80). I don't mind paying out a bit extra for one that is going to last.

So far I've been looking at the Manfrotto 714SHB (http://www.manfrotto.com/Jahia/site/manfrotto/cache/off/pid/3935?livid=68|69&idx=71) or one of the Velbon Ultra (http://www.velbon-tripod.com/ultra_maxi.htm) ones.

Has anyone had any experience of these? Or any other recommendations along the same lines?

Thanks!

[atari1356]

I have the Velbon Ultra Luxi F... overall it is very nice. The pan/tilt head is sturdy and operates very smoothly. It's also pretty versatile, being able to flip the legs out so you can drop the height of it down to about 6 inches is great - or go as high as around 70 inches.

When you extend the legs out as high as they will go, the tripod can be a little bit shaky - especially if you have a heavy camera/lens, or in windy conditions. For your S80 though, it should be fine.

I wish it had flip locks on the legs, instead of the twist locks... I personally find those easier to use. It looks like the Manfrotto you linked to does have the flip locks, so that may be a consideration. (although I'm not sure what the price difference is - and I don't see anything that shows how low the Manfrotto can go)

[wmmk]

unless you need a ball head, I wouldn't recommend one. From what I've heard, they don't last as long as pan/tilt heads and can be more finnicky. They also make it very hard to do panoramas.

[Binford]

I'd recommend the velbon. I had to sell mine becuase it wasn't sturyd enough for my slr w/ heavy lenses, but it should be much more than adequate for your camera!