Tiltall Tripod
The Tiltall is a classic; it's been around for at least 40 years. Luckily, they didn't change much over the years, other than it is newly available in a non-reflecting black. Made of aluminum, it's impervious to rust and the weather. The Tiltall's tubular legs are incredibly sturdy, and the simple locking mechanisms secure over time. Unlike most other tripods I've used it doesn't ever wiggle. Like its name implies, it can easily tilt in any direction (most tripods can't). It is not the lightest tripod, but it is utterly reliable and will last as long as you will.
Tripods are good for supporting all kinds of apparatus besides cameras. They can hold anything you need to remain steady at weird angles or heights. I attach a plastic platform to its standard 1/4 bolt on top which means I have an adjustable stand for a projector and other equipment like lights, shades, telescopes, and so forth.
-- KK
Tiltall Tripod
$100
From among others, Amazon
Favorite (15)
William Nicholls
I'd qualify that recommendation as one of the best cheap tripods. The Tiltall is a pretty good tripod in its current incarnation, but there are better tripods if you pay the price. And a good ballhead is faster to use, more rigid, and doesn't have lots of handles that snag on packs and clothing in the field.
Kevin Kelly
William, can you make some recommendations about better tripods/price?
Aaron
I own and use both a Gitzo and Bogen / Manfrotto and think very highly of both units. As far as heads I prefer the Bogen / Manfrotto's fluid head movement for my tripod doubling as a video mount at times.
Ludwig
re: "...it's not the lightest...". So how much does it weigh?
Jock Ellis
I've had two Tiltall tripods in my years in photography and can attest to their sturdiness. I would hope that a $750 Gitzo is lighter, stronger and even sturdier but unless you are going trekking in the Himalayas, you probably don't need to lose only a few pounds. Of course, if you can afford to go abroad to shoot, you probably don't worry about the cost.