Gitzo GT3531S Series 3 6X Carbon Fiber 3-Section Systematic Tripod with G-Lock - Replaces GT3530S

Prior to purchasing the Gitzo I only had relatively inexpensive tripods. There is absolutely no comparison. I purchased this tripod after much research and because I didn't want to "grow out of" this tripod. I am completed satisfied.It has carbon fiber legs that are much lighter than I thought they would be.This is a Series 3 tripod and I also considered their other lighter duty series 2 tripod but the difference in weight was not enough to justify not getting the sturdier model.It comes with no center column which reduces the weight (and also makes it a few inches shorter without it). If you are tall you might want to consider one of the longer models. Remember that you have to add the head height and the camera height (including the grip) to see how high the eyepiece of the camera is. Also I like the eyepiece to be slightly lower so I can easily see the LCD panel on the top of the camera.This is a "systematic" tripod. This is their top line of tripods and can be used in a number of flexible configurations. I added the optional center column to allow me to get greater height. I was concerned about the lack of stability with the center column but the entire unit is rock steady.The legs are very easy to open with a simple twist. It has the ability to setup the legs at different angles including allowing you to get almost flat so you can be very close to the ground. You can also invert the center column.There are other optional items including horizontal geared columns, video bowls, a variety of feet, etc.It comes with a lifetime warrenty. I highly recommend this tripod.

What more could I write about Gitzo Tripods that hasn't already been written? It's hard to imagine how one brand of something as seemingly simple as a tripod could stand out so clearly from others, but once you've had the pleasure to hold a Gitzo CF in your hands you realize why. And chances are if you are considering this tripod you're fairly familiar with them anyway.For those new to tripods however, I do have one piece of advice (gained from experience). Everyone seems to follow the same pattern when it comes to tripods and camera bags (myself included). We all start by trying to save money and look for the bargain, only to be disappointed several times before finally breaking down and buying the "best". The old adage "you get what you pay for" has been around throughout time for a reason. If quality is important to you, just save yourself considerable time and money - buy this tripod first (and maybe a good Gitzo CF monopod as well) and be done with it!If I were to come up with one criticism, it's that Gitzo CF tripods don't come with the foam "leg warmers" like so many others. Gitzo sells a set separately, but I tried them and they are, well, junk (and expensive junk to boot - probably not really made by Gitzo either). So you are left to try a third party solution, or kludge something up from materials at the local hardware store. All in all though a minor point considering the overall quality of the tripod itself.

I did a lot of research prior to choosing a tripod. I purchased from Amazon due to a promotional financing offer. It was packaged well for shipping. This purchase was made some time ago so the tripod has seen a lot of use!!. The only negative I have experienced is that the collar that holds the mounting plate came loose one time. I check it periodically, especially when using long lenses. It only happened once. Other than that I have had no issues. The tripod is solidly built. I did not want a center column so I chose the systematic model. It goes very low to the ground. and is simple and easy to operate. Purchasing a Gitzo is expensive, but it should last you a lifetime.