Rosco, that's the same basic setup that I'm going after. I'm still on the fence about going for the tall tripod but it's what OD recommended for versatility, and it will be nice to stand and look out over bushes, etc., if I need to, but also be able to glass while sitting. That's too bad your carbon fiber gear is breaking down on you. Maybe return it as defective? For that money it should last.
Eric
