Walimex WAL-6702 Review: A Stable Aluminium Tripod With Spikes

The Walimex WAL-6702 is a substantial aluminium tripod built around a 156 cm maximum height, clamp locks, a reversible centre column and removable rubber feet with spikes underneath. It is an older design, but it still makes sense for photographers who prefer a heavier, more stable support over a very compact travel tripod. At roughly 2.7 kg without a head, it is not a small bag tripod; it is a carry-to-location platform for a camera and a separately chosen head.

The official product information lists a 12 kg tripod capacity, though packages and heads vary. Capacity is only one part of the decision. A heavy camera-and-lens combination can still be unsteady if the head is undersized, the column is raised or the tripod is on an unstable surface.

No head included: choose the head for the job

The WAL-6702 is useful because the 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch mounting options allow a head to be chosen separately. A ball head is faster for still photography and quick portrait-orientation changes. A three-way head is better when you want to adjust a horizon or architecture precisely. A fluid video head is the right choice for smooth motion; neither a normal ball head nor a basic pan head replaces it.

The head needs to match the lens as well as the camera. When a long lens has a tripod collar, mount the collar rather than the camera body. It places the weight closer to the centre of the head and reduces the tendency for the setup to tip forward or sag.

Height, legs and real stability

At 156 cm, the WAL-6702 gives a useful standing height without becoming as tall and flexible as a long-column studio tripod. Its three-section legs have a larger top diameter than a small travel support, which helps them settle more quickly after the camera is touched. The price is carry weight and a 65 cm packed length.

For sharp images, use the thick upper leg sections first, spread the legs fully and keep the centre column as low as practical. Avoid assuming that the quoted capacity makes the tallest position equally stable. Wind, a long focal length and a raised column all amplify vibration. Use the self-timer or remote release for slow shutter speeds; GottaPics’ shutter-speed guide explains the effect.

Rubber feet and spikes

One of the WAL-6702’s practical strengths is the foot design. Rubber caps are appropriate for a hard floor, pavement or a studio. Turning or removing them exposes spikes for grass, soil or other soft ground. The spikes can stop the legs from sliding, but they do not make a tripod safe on a fragile surface or beside people. Never use them indoors where they could damage a floor.

Make every foot contact the ground before mounting the camera. On a slope, adjust the legs so the camera is level rather than forcing the centre column to compensate. This is more stable and gives the head a better working range.

Reversible column and low angles

The reversible centre column allows a camera to hang between the legs for an occasional close foreground or low-angle composition. It is flexible, but the controls are less convenient upside down and it takes longer to change settings. A dedicated small tripod such as the Sirui AM-223 is easier for regular ground-level work.

For landscape, portrait and a moderate telephoto lens, the WAL-6702’s main advantage is simply a more substantial base than a basic lightweight tripod. For a much taller three-way model, see the Walimex Pro FT-665T.

Who it suits

This tripod suits a photographer who accepts extra weight in exchange for a larger aluminium base, spike feet and the ability to select a separate head. It is a better fit for a drive-to-location landscape kit than for someone who needs the smallest possible carry-on tripod. It should still be avoided for a heavy long-lens setup in strong wind unless the whole rig, including the head, is properly matched and secured.

The official WAL-6702 product information confirms the 156 cm height, reversible column, spikes and heavier aluminium construction.

30-second decision

The Walimex WAL-6702 is a heavier, more stable aluminium tripod for photographers who do not need ultra-light travel packing and who want to choose their own head. Its useful features are the sturdy legs, spike feet and reversible column. Its compromises are weight, packed length and the fact that stability still depends on the chosen head and shooting conditions.

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