Build Quality. The build quality of the CT-3472 is very good. The components are all machined aluminum and powder coated. The powder coating causes the surfaces to be a touch on the rough side, and I prefer the feel of anodized finishes. This is purely personal preference though, and does not impact the build quality of performance.
Leg Locks. The leg locks are of the standard twist lock type. The rubber grips are of above average quality, and do not slip at all. The rubber is a little bit softer than I prefer, but they work perfectly fine.
Feet. The CT-3472 has standard 3/8″-16 threads on the bottoms of the legs to accommodate any standard feet. This is the preferred solution as there are many types of feet available with 3/8″ threads. The included feet are just rubber nubs. These are the most versatile and should work well except in very loose surfaces where spikes are needed.
Top Plate. The top plate on the CT-3472 is secured by the use of three set screws that press into an angular groove in the top plate. I’m not a fan of this system as set screws seem weak compared to the full contact systems used by other manufacturers. I worry that with enough force the top plate could be ripped off of the tripod. However, I have no evidence that the set screws actually are weaker in any way, and have not heard any reports of the top plate falling off (unlike the old Gitzos that didn’t have a safety detent pin). So, the set screws seem to work perfectly well.
Angle Selectors. Instead of the typical pull tabs, the Feisol tripods have a rotating press tab to set the leg angle. I personally prefer the pull tabs as they feel more solid, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with Feisol’s approach. The press tab as actually a little bit faster to use in the field than the pull tabs and can be operated easily with one motion of the hand.
Carbon Fiber Quality.