A hick-up between design and execution has become the most redundant item in the Harlowe lineup. It was a worthwhile idea that does not translate to a meaningful user experience in real life.
The materials and finish are first rate but what I don't get is why this thing sells for $89. It isn't very tall; it does not hold very much weight at all, for example if you mount a ball head first and then want to mount a Micro 8 it tends to collapse; it cannot be used as an extension because there is no 1/4" bushing on the bottom end of the shaft; and it is VERY tippy. If the legs spread further out it would help with stability a lot.
I'm not going to mount anything that might get damaged on this tripod. In fact I'm not going to mount anything on it at all, and it isn't going to be included in my travel kit. This is a dust collector, and that's way too bad. I regret making the purchase because it is essentially totally useless for what it is meant to be. Your mileage may vary, but when I look at my Micro and Iris lights I am overjoyed with the quality and beautiful light they create. And then I try to find a use for the Desktop Extendable Tripod and I'm at a total loss. It just doesn't fit in and has no place in this lineup of wonderful items.