The Black Rhino is the new flagship tripod featuring two of Leofoto's new technologies that improve overall performance. It is essentially a premium version of the LM-404C and you will see that its specifications in terms of size are exactly the same. So what's new?

 

1. New higher density carbon fiber weave - the "mountain pattern" carbon offers better rigidity, vibration absorbion and load rating. 
2. Poseidon Joints - Leofoto combined several new technologies to make the best possible connection between leg sections. The first is the material the joint body is made from - a plastic-metal composite. The first key aspect to this material is a better strength to weight ratio than the highest density plastic while avoiding the extreme cost of finely machined alloys. The second is extremely fine tolerances between interconnecting parts - the new joints lock together much better. Other   features include a gland at the bottom and an o-ring at the top to keep out dirt.  These joints lock together so well that Leofoto have had to introduce a valve at the top of the leg for the entry and exit of air when collapsing/extending a leg. All of this results in improved rigidity, load support, reduced torsion flex and a longer lifespan. 
3. The final touch is more black finish on the apex - the hinge tabs and all other controls on the legs are black. 

 

All in all, we've made several key improvements without meddling with the recipe of ultra-simple engineering and premium materials. Tripod technology has for the most part reached a plateau where its difficult to make improvements, but we feel that the Black Rhino offers a substantial improvement to leg rigidity and lifespan while also reducing torsion flex. 

 

Physical Specifications:

 

Extended Height 1 (all 4 sections) -  190cm

Extended Height 2 (3 of 4 sections extended) - 145cm

Extended Height 3 (2 of 4 sections extended) - 114cm

Extended Heigh 4 (1 of 4 sections extended) - 71cm

Folded length - 75cm

Weight - 3.3kg