My first carbon fiber tripod finally bit the dust. The hinges were crumbling and holding it together with gaffers tape was no longer an option. So long old friend. Welcome to my new Fotopro tripod, the T-Roc MAX. If it sounds like I’m already a fan, you would be right.

I have this tripod in addition to the Fotopro Eagle E-6L, which is a full gimbal tripod. It was my first Fotopro tripod geared more toward wildlife/landscape photography.

Full disclosure: I should add that I am a Fotopro Ambassador.

Pros

  • Stiff solid performance even when extended to full height
  • Three position legs including straight flat
  • Sand resistant Pantour head
  • Folds to 18.9 inches
  • Just over 67 inches tall
  • three pounds 12 ounces

Cons

There is a tiny left shift when locking a long lens (after working with the head more this is mitigated by using the tension setting damping knob opposite the ball head lock).

Fotopro T-Roc MAX — Technical specifications

Extra rubber feet are included, which cover spiked feet.
  • 1/4 Twist Lock: Comfort twist locking knobs only require a 1/4 turn to lock and unlock each leg section.
  • Three Angle Options :Tripod legs can be adjusted to 3 different positions based on the terrain.
  • Damping Knob: Damping knob allows you to easily move the camera without having to waste time adjusting any knobs.
  • Removable Center Column: Reversible and removable center column will allow you to take creative low to the ground shots.
  • 100% 1K Carbon Fiber: 1K carbon fiber is lighter and stronger than the ordinary carbon fiber tripods in the market.
  • Titanium Spikes: The tripod legs have hidden titanium spikes providing strong support on slick surfaces

Fotopro T-Roc MAX — Ergonomics and build quality

Full view of T-Roc MAX tripod with Pantour ball head.

Very pleased with the machining of the mechanical parts. The tripod ball head is smooth and you are able to adjust tension in several ways depending upon working conditions and lens weight. The grips added to two of the tripod legs is welcome. They are tight padding that looks to wear well.

Fotopro T-Roc MAX — When strength, stiffness, minimum weight are key

I looked on the web to find out why the carbon fiber legs were so stiff and light. After some research I found this description. “This unique carbon fabric is used in the most demanding applications which call for maximum strength and stiffness, and where minimum weight justifies the added cost. The plain weave construction delivers uniform strength in both horizontal and vertical directions, and provides for excellent stability and easy handling.” I didn’t know that carbon fiber had so many variations. You can learn more about carbon fiber production and quality here.

As a Fotopro Ambassador/Featured Photographer, I can answer questions you have about this tripod and others in the Fotopro line. Send me a note at [email protected].


Yours in Creative Photography, Bob