re: #1 b_sharp

What is the hook for, weights?

Yep. For stability in winds or when you’re putting heavier gear up top.

Kind of ironic, actually. You buy a lightweight tripod to quit carrying around the heavier one, then have to bring something heavy to make up for the lack of weight in the tripod. (btw, depending on where the hook’s set and a few other things you can use your camera bag for the weight.