An upscale tripod is made of carbon fiber, which is both stronger and lighter than traditional metal tripods, but it also carries a premium price. The OSN OS 364 LA carbon fiber tripod is one of the more reasonably priced models currently available.

This improved model has a new leg-locking system of quick lever locks that allow for faster setup and break down times; most other tripods use cumbersome rotating collar locks that are slower to operate. The 364 LA has a four-section leg design and three-position leg spread for low-to-the-ground uses. It also has a lift center column, with a 3/8-inch thread at both ends so a head can be reversed for low-angle situations 17 inches or higher, and a leveling bubble. A soft rubber cylinder encircles each leg for easier carrying. And there are extra-large 1.75-inch-diameter non-slip rubber feet on swivel balls, as well.

The leg locks work smoothly and efficiently to hold the leg length tightly and exactly where it is set. A triangular nut unlocks and locks the sliding center column. A removable hook at the bottom of the column can be used for a water bag support when typically needed with long, heavy telephoto lenses. There is no panhead, just a flat top with 3/8-inch thread to accept a pan or ball head of your choice. A nice gray padded carrying case with an inner cloth liner sleeve for the tripod is included and so is a fabric bag that can be attached to each leg to provide a carrying sling platform for camera accessories. This model appears to be sturdily constructed for long, durable use.