Carbon Fiber Hunting Tripod with Arca Swiss QR Plate - Stable 66lb

In this review of the FANAUE ST-65 hunting tripod, the bottom line is simple: it is built for hunters and outdoor shooters who need a lightweight, stable rest that adapts to uneven ground. The reviewer found the tripod's carbon fiber construction and Arca Swiss compatible quick release plate combine rugged durability with a genuinely portable package. It is especially useful when paired with a rifle saddle mount or a camera head, and the quick locking safety stop gives confidence when tracking fast or heavy gear.

Key Features

• Arca Swiss compatibility: The quick release plate fits standard Arca dovetail slots so you can swap between rifle saddles and camera heads without adapters.
• High strength materials: Ten-layer carbon fiber legs and CNC anodized aluminum parts keep weight low while supporting up to 66.14lb for secure rests in the field.
• Quick locking safety stop: A unique stop function prevents the plate and mounted gear from slipping off under strong impact, adding peace of mind when moving or tracking.
• Fast height and angle adjustment: Inverted two-section design with a single knob lets you reach working height quickly and set leg angles to 22/55/85 degrees for varied terrain.
• Accessory ready: The plate includes an extra 3/8in mounting hole so you can attach cameras, binoculars, or other photographic and hunting accessories.

Who It's For

The FANAUE ST-65 is best for hunters and wildlife photographers who value a lightweight stand that does not compromise stability. Its carbon fiber construction makes it easy to carry over long distances, while the large maximum tube diameter and rated load suit heavy optics and rifle setups.

Casual tripod users who only need a simple camera tripod or those on a tight budget may prefer a basic photographic model without rifle-specific features. Also, if you require extremely low-profile ground use or an ultra-compact travel tripod, a smaller dedicated camera tripod could be a better fit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very stable under load thanks to large-diameter carbon fiber legs and solid aluminum components.
• Lightweight and portable design that customers specifically noted for easy hiking and transport.
• Quick release plate with Arca-Swiss interface and added 3/8in hole makes switching accessories straightforward.
• Leg angle options and quick lock let you deploy the tripod rapidly on uneven ground.

Cons

• Aluminum CNC parts and the specialized quick release may feel overbuilt for users who only need basic camera support.
• The tripod head is optimized for rifle saddle mounts, so photographers wanting a full-featured ball head may need to add or swap components.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The FANAUE ST-65 is a strong choice for hunters and outdoor shooters who need a stable, lightweight tripod that accepts Arca-style plates and works with rifle saddles. It balances durability and portability well, and the quick locking safety stop is a thoughtful touch for field use. For those who want an all-purpose camera tripod without rifle-specific features, other models may offer more specialized heads, but for hunting and heavy optics this tripod represents good value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the quick release plate removable?
The quick release plate can be removed using the included allen wrench and uses an Arca-Swiss style dovetail for compatibility.

How much weight can this tripod support?
The tripod is rated to support up to 66.14lb, suitable for heavy scopes, optics, and rifle setups.

Will it hold steady on slick or wet ground?
The foot sole has a special non-slip design to improve stability on a variety of terrains including wet surfaces.