Best Tripod for under $300?

[Donald Moon]

I know all about the search button and the Official Tripod thread, but that thread has become way too long and I would just like a simple question answered. I've got a cheap $50, nameless company tripod and need a serious upgrade. I also don't want to spend a grand on one right now. I've searched B&H and found this: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=NavBar&A=getItemDetail&Q=&sku=481931&is=REG&si=spec#goto_itemInfo

But I've read very mixed reviews about the head. So please, educate me on this. Thank you.

 

[Tim Naylor]

I own one and it's the best deal for the $ but you still get what you pay for. Don't believe their propaganda about it being a fluid head. It's not. Pure friction. Check out Libec's offerings. For a bit more you can get a true fluid head from them.