The new Rapid Flip Mechanism locks allow the legs to invert 180 for more compact storage and transportation. When its 4 leg sections are fully retracted, the CF-422 is less than 19 inches long making it easy to stow in a carry-on suitcase or backpack. Despite its compact retracted size, it's a full-size tripod reaching over 70 inches when fully extended. Lightweight European 8-layer carbon fiber keeps this travel tripod to less than 2.5 lbs while maintaining a superior weight to load ratio. The tripod also features a gearless, detachable and invertible center column that separates to convert to a short column for low angle photography.