So you are using a Summit SS? That was an option too, but thought it was a OK for Bino's but not the Spotter. Also, I am 5'9". Seems like the $ difference between the Summit and the others is huge. I hate that I can't "feel" these all near each other. Oh well, I'll figure it out.
If you plan to use your spotter while sitting down the SS should be ok. Not perfect but it gets the job done for me outside of high winds.
Full disclosure I’m a weight wienie when it comes to my backpack set up. Moreso I like compact and small stuff. I bought the SS and used it a lot with the upgraded head for my previous light weight optics set up. (Swarovski cl 10x30 binos and leupold 15-30x40 spotter) it worked great with that little spotter but I’ve since sold it and moved on to a Swarovski stx with a 65mm and a 95mm lens.
The stock head won’t handle the weight of either of those spotters on the summit ss or ssp very well. The legs are decent on the 65 without using the center column up to the 3rd extension. So a sitting height for me. If I’m using the 95 it’s only stable when fully compressed as a table top tripod.
Myself and my partners tried a few other models out and I’ve ended up with a slik 634 carbon.
Most of that choice cane from trial and error and based on my individual needs. The areas I hunt elk and moose have grown in considerably so I need to be able to stand so that I can see over the growth in 75% of my glassing points. Aside from that it handles the weight of my optics much better. Of course still really shaky if I use the Center column but that’s almost any tripod and especially anything I’d consider humping around in my backpack.
My glassing style is to use my binos most of the time then verify with the spotter if I’m going for a stalk.
If you’re looking solely for spotter use and have an angled eyepiece and plan on sitting, you can probably get away with the summit and be happy. Maybe even standing with binos if it’s not too windy. I’d suggest no matter what if you get the summit consider changing out the head. That was its biggest downfall for me.
I guess this is a really really long way to say, there’s a lot of suitable options out there and it can get really overwhelming. If anything though I would stay away from the pro GT. Secondly carbon tripods tend to hold a better value for resale on here if you’re unhappy with what you get and want to recoup some funds for another.
Lastly - I haven’t tried it personally but I’ve heard decent things about the amazon basics carbon fiber tripods as a low budget option.
