Buying a tripod - advice wanted

Ah yes! That would be useful alright.
And let me guess, the better quality versions can take a heavier weight of camera/small scope...would that be fair to say??
Thanks,

Just to confirm, does the knob on the side determine the rigidity of the ball in the socket or does it allow you to remove the top part of the ball and socket from the rest of the piece?
Thanks,

I don't think it would take a lot of weight but it should be fine for your camera.

The knob determines rigidity alright and the ball socket will allow you to position the camera independently from the tripod. To attach or remove a camera loosen the knob and then rotate the grooved top part.

Thanks John. I'll look into this a bit more.