Really Right Stuff TVC-44 Heavy Duty Tripod — Usage Notes
See previous notes.
I generally prefer working with larger models, in part because of the solidity and the wider leg-spread. Also, the knobs are easier to grasp and operate with bare hands or gloves and I the larger diameter legs just fit my hands better too.
I’ve been using the Really Right Stuff TVC-44 tripod in the field (with Arca Swiss Cube) and have found that my expectations are met: the study construction includes a weightiness that feels ruggedly sturdy and is less prone than lighter tripods to being jostled with slight inadvertent bumps (easy to do in uneven terrain). The TVC-44 now becomes my tripod of choice when I don’t have to carry it very far and/or when supporting heavier gear. For any long lens work, it’s a compelling choice. But odd as it might sound, I prefer working with it even with small cameras simply because of the way it solidly plants itself.
However it is a heavy tripod (7.1 lb / 3.2 kg), and anyone of lighter build might find it a bit awkward when supporting the full weight with head, such as when holding it and extending the leg sections. But there are ways to do that without hefting it.
See also articles on camera plates.