Follow up review. This has got to be one of my most reached to tripods that comes out with me onto location, I have the TR344 for when I need something lightweight. This tripod is a beast and so sturdy even when you have it at the maximum height, I've done 5 minute plus long exposures in windy conditions and it was still tack sharp. I use the levelling bowl paired with the BH1 ball head most of the time, I never have to weigh it down for my long exposures, I just put the tripod down on the ground and it stands up to the elements, using the spikes helps you anchor into the ground.
4 years on and nothing has broken on this, I have put it though a lot and it has battle scars on it from use yet it still keeps going. I do regular cleaning and once a year I give the tripod a full service to keep the tripod functioning.
I have people ask me why I have such a tall tripod and I say it is great for working on uneven ground or on a slop, great as well when you want to shoot from high up. I have considered buying the centre column for more height.
If you look after this I can see you getting easily 20 years out of it, PMG will also look after you if you'll need anything.