Really Right Stuff TQC-14 Series 1 Compact Tripod — In the Field
The Really Right Stuff TQC-14 Series 1 Compact Tripod proved to be a very capable performer on my recent trip to Yosemite. It definitely has the right combination of size and weight for hiking up steep hillsides, and would be an excellent choice for airline travel (which I avoid).
In my distraction, schlepping along my 3 kids, I forgot to bring my favored TVC-24L with the Arca Swiss Cube, so the TQC-14 was all I had to use. It worked out just fine, and my load was a lot lighter up those hills.
The TQC-14 does not offer the full height I’d prefer, but with the ultra sturdy center column and a remote release, it proved its merit, and it’s something I can take on my bike with my photo gear, along with one of the smaller RRS ballheads to keep the weight down.
For more on Really Right Stuff tripods, see my Really Right Stuff coverage in DAP.
Shown below are the Really Right Stuff TVC-34L, the TVC24L and the TQC-14 (in general, I prefer the “L” models for their extra height, which is really useful on steep slopes, one long leg into a creek, etc).