This is not a small compact unit. Under the right conditions it is a good tool. I use it for nature photography from the "road side" or from a blind. By the time it is set up with a good sturdy tripod, camera and telephoto lens, it is a monster. Good features, is that it is steady, and provides a good platform for different lenses. It is easy to find the center of gravity for any set up. I have also used this in a digiscope set up and with the right camera attachments, it is very steady. This is not a good unit for backpacking trips.
Pros: good value
Cons: large
This review was written in the old system and had content requirements that are different than reviews written today.