Libec QL40C Carbon Fiber Tripod Announced – Lighter, More Compact Quick-Lock Option

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by Alexandra ThompsonDecember 15^th, 2025

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Japanese manufacturer Libec has added a carbon fiber model to its Quick Lock series, the QL40C, built for operators who would like a lighter tripod without having to change their workflow. It keeps the familiar single-action Quick Lock, the 40kg (88.1 lb) load rating, and the same 75 mm bowl layout as the aluminum QL40B, but trims weight and folded length. Let’s look at the details.

We’ve looked at quite a few Libec tripods that have been introduced over the past few months, including the 2.7kg Arca-Swiss travel tripod with a payload of 3kg and the TK-210C baby tripod, a carbon fiber option with a 2-stage leg design that lets you work very close to the ground. The QL40C is a new carbon fiber model meant for operators who want the same Quick Lock workflow as in their QL40B model, but in a lighter and more compact form.

Construction – lighter and shorter

The QL40C moves to carbon fiber tubes with an oval profile, which brings the weight down and shortens the folded length compared with the aluminum QL40B. The tubes themselves are slightly shorter, so the tripod reaches a lower minimum height and does not extend quite as high as the B model. The 75mm bowl remains unchanged, and the crown keeps the three accessory ports with both 1/4″ and 3/8″ threads. A carrying handle is available for both models.

Specifications

• Pipe material: Carbon
• Payload: 40kg / 88.1 lb
• Weight: 2.2 kg / 4.8 lb
• Height range: 38.5 to 151.5cm (15.2 to 59.6 in)
• Leg lock type: Flip style Quick Lock
• Accessory attachments: Three sets of 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch screw holes
• Carrying handle: Available
• Head attachment: 75mm bowl
• Section: Two-stage

Note: The listed weight excludes spreaders and rubber feet. The height is measured with a floor spreader. The range will be different with a mid-level spreader or larger rubber feet. Spreaders are sold separately.

How it operates

The QL40C keeps Libec’s single-action Quick Lock on the upper leg section, the same mechanism used on the QL40B. One flip opens or closes both stages of each leg, so adjustments are made from a standing position rather than at the lower section. Libec notes that the absence of a lower lock reduces the need to bend down for routine height changes. Tension can be fine-tuned with the small maintenance tool that comes in the box. Since the payload remains 40 kg (88.1 lb), the shift to carbon fiber looks to be mainly about reducing weight and improving portability, not increasing the structural limit.

Pricing and availability

According to Libec, the QL40C is slated to begin shipping in January 2026. Pricing has not yet been announced, so it is still unclear how the carbon fiber model will compare with the aluminum QL40B. We will update this section once official pricing becomes available. Please note that the Libec QL40C ships without spreaders or rubber feet, which can be purchased separately.

For more information, please visit the Libec website.

How important is it to have a single action lock that opens both stages at once rather than separate locks? Would adjusting the tripod from a standing position make your workday less tiring? Let us know in the comments.