Induro AKB1 Tripod Kit (Black)

by Induro

Product Details

induro Tripods, Monopods and Heads Brochure [3.15mb PDF]

• Item Weight: 3.6 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 5.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B002SXMROY
• Item model number: AKB1
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (18 customer reviews)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: October 14, 2009

Product Description

Style: Aluminum with Head

The Induro Adventure Series Tripod Kits have become one of the most popular series of tripods on the market today. While they were conceived with the budget-conscious photographer in mind, a close look will show that no compromises were made in the materials, design or construction. The AKB1 is built to the same standards as top-of-the-line Induro professional tripods. The AKB1 is a rugged 3 leg section tripod with matching ballhead. For ease of operation, the tripod legs feature flip lock legs and a single-action ballhead with quick release plate that allows one-handed adjustments. Using the latest materials available – magnesium for the spider (the heart of any tripod) and strong, industrial quality aluminum alloy for the legs - Induro has created an outstanding tripod outfit that will provide a lifetime of use. Includes a deluxe carrying bag with strap.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

25 of 26 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Reliable Photography Gear, September 18, 2010

By 

JDP - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Induro AKB1 Tripod Kit (Black) (Electronics)

As a photographer that shoots in various terrains, packing quality gear that can go the distance is a given. Coming from a steadfast user of Manfrotto tripods, I have to say that Induro's AKB1 Tripod is a nice surprise that leaves quite an impression. Originally I purchased this model as a backup tripod. However, after a little over eight months of use its found itself as my go to tripod. Its proven itself time and time again.

Made primarily of a magnesium alloy and aluminum, the AKB1 weighs in at about 3.5lbs and measures 26" folded and 62" fully extended. Even though I've been guilty of exceeding it a few times with both my Nikon D3s and D300, the maximum load is rated at 12.8lbs. The head mount thread size is the standard 1/4" and 3/8".

Like I said earlier, the AKB1 leaves quite an impression. For me personally the biggest selling points are the;

1) Adjustable Quick Locking Legs - Even on an uneven surface the height and spread is easily set by a flip of the quick lock leg levers. The legs are double keyed sections that unlike cheap knock offs don't rotate.

2) Snap-in Quick Release Plates - One of the better QR systems out there. I highly recommend picking up more then one of these durable plates.

3) Ballhead with Single Action Control - Well constructed, this single lever locks camera position and head rotation simultaneously.

4) Spider - Impressive magnesium alloy body. Rock solid and built tougher then most. Its cross braced and is the center system that provides for excellent core stability.

5) Center Column - Grooved and nicely built. It prevents unwanted column rotation and allows for low angle shooting.

6) Center Column Lock - Definitely a great design that adds structural support and helps in reducing vibration.

7) Bubble Level - One of the few mounted levels that works well for me. It aids in adjustment, uneven panning, and tripod head movements.

8) Weight Hook - Sturdier then most, its spring loaded and allows additional weight mounting stability especially during windy conditions.

9) Foam Grip - I actually like this more then I thought I would. It provides comfortable handling in extreme conditions and surprisingly has held up well.

10) Weight - Usually I'm not a big fan of light weight tripods. Durability and overall quality makes this one an obvious exception.

The only negative with this tripod is that it did not come with spiked feet. I had to purchase those separately. The Induro AKB1 comes in both a black or gun metal finish. This tripod is also packed with an above average nylon carrying case with a padded shoulder strap. The all metal hardware on the bag is top notch. The manufacturer also tags on a two year warranty.

For me personally, this product has gone the distance and more. The overall quality of this tripod speaks volumes. Without a doubt, I would recommend the Induro AKB1 to any serious photographer out there.

8 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic travelling tripod, September 3, 2010

By 

Steven Bushong - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Induro Carbon 8x Tripod CT-114 (Black) (Electronics)

I purchased this and the matched BHD1 ballhead for a photo project in Paris and the French countryside (ballhead also reviewed). When I researched this, I knew I was looking for compact size when folded, lightweight and a good extended height. I have another tripod I use around a studio or when I won't need to carry for extended periods. I spent about 4 hours reviewing the specs of various manufacturers. I selected this Induro product because of it technical specs, ease of use and because of the recommendation Scott Bourne gives for the Induro brand based on his own use. When making a purchase like this there are trade-offs and I perceived that this tripod gave me everything I was looking for at an acceptable investment.

When I received this tripod and ballhead, I immediately was reassured that I had made the right choice. Very compact, very lightweight and VERY solid. I packed the tripod and ballhead in my small suitcase with no problem. My photo project included making a series of HDR images, including some very long exposures for HDR in Notre Dame. This requires ensuring the camera does not move. I was using my Nikon D700 with a 70-200 f2.8 lens. The tripod supported this kit with no difficulty. If I had planned to take a larger lens, I might have gotten the next size up Induro.

This tripod and ballhead were great. They allowed for fast, easy set up and adjustment. There is a bag hook under the center column to increase stability. The rubber tips on the legs can be quickly swapped out for metal spikes. I used this combination on cobblestones, in 12th century churches, parking lots, and fields in the French countryside. Most importantly is that I USED IT. One of the worst things is to have a great, stable tripod and ballhead, but not use it because it is too heavy to carry comfortably. This Induro set was just the opposite. EXCELLENT for packing, carrying and using throughout the day. It's compact size was also convenient when folded and carrying it through the busy metro stations of Paris.

At the end of the day, this is a tool I highly recommend. I researched other brands before buying, but have not regrets (except for not having purchased a few extra quick release plates so I could leave them attached to the camera and various lenses). This tripod and ballhead enabled me to create the images I wanted for my upcoming 2nd iPhone-iPad app (Everglades Originals is already available at iTunes). Very HIghly Recommended product

4 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Solid legs and head holds a D90 + 18-200 easily., July 14, 2010

By 

J. Eberhard "photo man" (Austin, TX United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Induro AKB1 Tripod Kit (Black) (Electronics)

Yay Gold Box deals! Almost bought this at Fry's last weekend, held off because I wasn't sure if I wanted to spend the money on taxes (Yay no Taxes online), and then saw this as a Gold Box item on Saturday night.

The legs are nice - easy to clamp and unclamp for height - and only 3 section, so it gets tall without getting unstable. The column is reversable, which is cool for close to the ground photography.

The ball head does not have a panning feature, so this may not be the best for panoramic shots, but it has NO issues whatsoever holding the camera at some weird angles with a heavy lens and body. Tightening the head is easy, untightening is a little more difficult.

Easily worth the money at full price, never mind half price!

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