SIRUI nt-1005x/e-10

How low can you go?

When it comes to folding down small for compact carriage, the Sirui reigns supreme. It’s definitely designed to be as small as possible, not only featuring five-section legs with a swing-up facility, but also incorporating a two-section extending centre column.

The result is a generally adequate maximum operating height of 150cm, and a particularly tiny folded height of 36cm. That’s only about half the folded height of the Manfrotto 290 kit. Despite its aluminium build, the Sirui is only just about 10g heavier than the featherweight Novo carbon kit.

Build quality is magnificent and the Sirui feels solid and robust, despite its deceptively lightweight construction. It remains rigid and steady even at the maximum height, with all five leg sections fully extended and both sections of the centre column at full reach.

Three locking leg angles are available and there’s the now usual facility of removing one leg and the centre column for use as a particularly handy monopod.

Unfortunately there are no retractable or interchangeable metal spikes for the feet but the rubber pads are of good quality. Unlike most tripods on test, the Sirui is supplied with an unpadded bag rather than a padded soft case, with a further saving in size and weight.

Performance

Setup is quick and easy, from the non-slip feet to the ball head with its Arca-swiss compatible quickrelease plate. All adjustments are smooth but lock solidly in place, although the head lacks an independent friction damper. If ultra-compact carriage is high on your priority list, the Sirui is a very desirable kit for you.