Vortex Summit SS-P Tripod Review

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Vortex Summit SS-P Tripod Review.

Vortex summit ss-p tripod is the ultimate field packing tripod known to provide the most perfect combination between size, weight, reliability, and rugged construction.

This lightweight 5-section aluminum tripod is strong enough to hold up to 5lb of gear. Furthermore, it has a splint center column so that when one section is removed, the tripod can still be able to reach a minimum height of 6.3”.

For any outdoor endeavor, be it hunting, bird watching, or wildlife viewing, this tripod has been designed to provide you with a snug viewing session.

For a reliable performance regardless of the weather and terrain, the Vortex summit SS-P Tripod is among the best tripods you will ever get. With a rugged 3-way quick-release pan head, the tripod has been made to deliver solid support for different optics regardless of how heavy they weigh.

Moreover, the tripod extends up to 54.5” and folds down to a small size of just 14”. This enhances pack-ability and transportability as well. Let’s have a closer look at the features that make the Vortex Summit SS-P Tripod stand out among the rest.

 

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Specifications

  • Weighs 2.0 pounds
  • 6.3-54.5 inches Height
  • Max Load capacity- 5 pounds
  • 14 inches folded height
  • 4.5 inches folded width
  • 5 Leg Sections
  • 3 Leg Angles

Construction Features

  • Anodized aluminum legs. They provide sturdy support at a relatively affordable cost while still ensuring that the tripod is lightweight enough to be easy to carry from one point to another.
  • Rubber feet. Outdoor activities involve rough terrain as well as uneven ground surfaces. Rubber feet provide solid footing on such surfaces and ensure great stability.
  • Balance hook provides a platform for introducing extra weight on the bottom of the center column for additional stability when the weather conditions change and become windy.
  • 3-way pan head provides swift horizontal and vertical adjustments. For camera use, the 3-way pan enables you to quickly follow the action and adjust your viewing angle with ease.
  • The split center column allows for the removal of the lower portion of the center column. When combined with the widespread leg angles, the height of the tripod can be easily reduced to an absolute minimum.
  • Twist leg locks are valued for quick and easy leg adjustment to a height that’s comfortable for the user.
  • 3 leg angles allow for flexible positioning as well as reduction of the tripod height to make it more stable.
  • 5 leg sections allow for maximum height possible with minimum packing length.

Convenience Features

  • Lightweight and compact size. Made of aluminum, the tripod is not only sturdy but also lightweight. The lightweight design will allow you to haul the tripod for several miles without getting tired.
  • Highly adjustable legs with an adjustable center plate make it easier to adjust the tripod to the perfect height while preventing the user from having to hunch over the optic during use.
  • Padded leg wraps.
  • Folds down to a small compact size for easy storage and transportation. A carrying case is also included.
  • Control pan and tilt action with handle.

Vortex Summit SS-P Tripod Advantages

  1. Great tripod for the weight. This tripod is not only lightweight but also folds into a small and compact size for easy storage and transportability.
  2. The quick-release plate allows quick attachment and removal of the camera, binocular, or spotting scope from the tripod.
  3. Great versatility. This tripod accommodates multiple gears ranging from cameras, binoculars, or spotting scopes.
  4. Multiple angles with the five sectional legs provide better stability and positioning capabilities for different users.
  5. Durable construction and rugged reliability.
  6. Quick and straightforward setup process.
  7. Sharper image views. By enhancing your optics stability, a tripod will help you achieve more accurate views of your targets.

How to Make Basic Adjustments

Adjusting the Pan Head

The tripod features a 3-way pan head that allows you to easily follow the action and adjust the viewing angle. For Camera use, the 3-way pan head enables you to choose between horizontal and vertical plate alignments.

The good thing about this tripod is that you can control all the pan and tilt action by using just one hand. To make any horizontal or vertical adjustments, twist the handle anti-clockwise to free the pans head’s movement. After the optic is already in the desired position, twist the handle clockwise to lock.

Adjusting the Tripod Legs

To make changes to the relative height of the tripod head, loosen the center column height adjustment knob and adjust it to your ideal height. Note that each tripod length extends to a maximum of three sections. To adjust the length of each leg, flip the leg lever up to unlock then slide the leg section out to your ideal length. To lock it in place, flip the lever back down.

Stabilizing the Tripod

Whenever the weather turns windy, you’ll need to stabilize the tripod to have clear target views. Instead of packing up and leaving when the winds start to blow strong, hang a weight on the balance hook and the tripod will instantly stabilize. By doing so, you can prevent it from shaking and wobbling during use.

Adjusting the Leg Length

Each leg of this tripod extends to a maximum of five sections. To extend the length of each tripod leg, grab hold of the rubber foot then twist anti-clockwise while pulling out on a section. Depending on the length needed, continue twisting and pulling. When done, twist clockwise to lock the leg section in place.

Adjusting the Leg Angle

Each leg can be set to one of three angles. Slide the release tab to the right and then pivot the leg outwards to the desired angle.

Center Column Adjustment

To change the relative height of the tripod head, loosen the center column height adjustment knob and then remove the lower section of the center column for ultra-low positioning. If the weather condition turns windy and the tripod struggles to remain stable, hang a weight on the balance hook to make it stable.

Conclusion

Owning a tripod for outdoor endeavors doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Vortex Optics Summit SS-P Tripod is available at a relatively affordable price, making it a favorite among budget-conscious users. The tripod is also easy to use, with user-friendly features which make it suitable even for beginners. Investing in such a tripod will really offer you great value for the money.

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