The Velbon Videomate 438 is a lightweight tripod made of square aluminum profiles and therefore cannot be compared to the significantly stronger (and more expensive) tripods we normally use. However, you can't count this stand out. It does its job for those who don't use the tube as often or as hard as some so-called "hard watchers". In windy situations, however, the simpler quality is noticeable. The video head is largely constructed of plastic, but has a smooth and nice panning that is also adjustable in a good way, something that actually some much more expensive video heads lack. The head comes with a rectangular plastic quick release plate with a cork coating for friction against the base of the tube. Binoculars/camera mounts with quarter-inch camera screws that can be tightened with a chisel or a coin. There is also a guide pin to avoid rotation on the plate. The leg locks are of the quick-lock type (plastic snaps) and three stabilizing braces run with the legs, connected to the center pillar tunnel. The friction on the leg spindle can be adjusted by turning the center column tunnel. The center pillar is cranked up.
Product information
Weight: 1230 grams
Maximum load: 2 kg
Transport length: 59 cm
Minimum working height: 64 cm
Height excluding center pillar: 126 cm
Maximum height: 153 cm
Warranty: 2 years