Now this is quite a deal. :) It's briefly dipped just below $300 on Amazon, but 200 is quite incredible. If it used twist locks instead of levers on the legs I'd be really tempted to replace my current tripod. The cantilever feature seems really great for bending over a table to shoot down without setting up the entire thing ON the table. Just not sure how stable that hinge is.
CurbyYes it's a good price and I purchased for precisely the reason you're opting not to . I have a Gitzo that I paid more than 4X this price for. This tripod's slightly lighter, doesn't have the same load capacity (though I can't forsee I'll ever put 18 pounds on it ). I'm so tired of twisting the leg locks on the Gitzo, and it's not as fast to setup or take down, so the quick release levers can be a benefit depending on POV.
peaceoflightDefinitely, so many companies make lever lock tripods, you're definitely not in the minority. I just prefer fewer snag hazards, less chance of pinched fingers (more of a problem with some designs than others), and big gripping surfaces for gloved use etc. I agree it's slower though!