The Cullmann Magnesit 525 Tripod Legs is an intelligently-designed standard class tripod meant for use with SLR cameras and the typical lenses serious enthusiasts would use, such as a semi-professional SLR with an f/2.8 constant aperture telephoto zoom lens. The Magnesit 525 reaches a maximum height of just over 5" and thanks to the independent leg spread and 2-part center column it can operate at a very low working height of just over 7". The 525"s crown has a special design which mates with Cullmann"s Magnesit Nm series ball heads in a locking, 100% secure fashion.The 525 is named the "Magnesit" because of its extensive use of magnesium in the casings and fittings. Magnesium"s a light and stable metal, helping to contribute to the quite tolerable weight of under 4 pounds, an excellent number for this class of aluminum-based tripod. In addition to the features mentioned, the 525 M has the ability to turn into a full height ( 61 inches ) Monopod. By backing off of the main center column locking knob, the center column can be lifted from the main locking collar. By grasping the bottom-most knob of the center column, and pulling it downwards, the monopod can be adjusted to any length, with a maximum working height of 61 inches. A firm right-hand twist of the bottom portion locks the entire monopod. To return the monopod to it"s fully closed position, each locking section ( 4 ) must be unlocked with a simple left hand twist. Once done, the center colum