I was lucky enough to snag a new Ascend tripod. I have used the 2 and 3 series for hunting spotting etc. and have no complaints. The Ascend from what i can see and feel will take these to the next level for hunting use. Cant see any issues with the tripod itself. Will have to get the ballhead out in the wet, dirt, snow, ice etc and see how it works.
This package seems to improve on lots of areas for someone like me who wants to drag a tripod around hunting.
Everything is a balance but my Anvil setup is gonna stay in the truck and the Ascend is gonna get the call this year. Cant wait. Smaller lighter shorter can only help.