Gitzo Tripod Input Please

I'm looking at one of 2 Gitzo Tripods.

The GT3541LS and the GT3530LS. The use of either would be to support my Wimberly head with a 500mm f/4 lens (usually with a 1.4X TC).

The appeal of the 3541 is that is folds down to 21.7 inches, while the 3530 folds to 26.4 inches. For travel, that 5 inches makes a difference in the luggage I have to take. Both claim to support the same 39.6 pounds. The 3541 is a fraction lighter.

My question.... Does any have experience with the 4 section 3541 that would lead you to concerns with stability over the 3 section 3530? Clearly I only want to buy something like this once so I'm trying to make an fully informed decision.

Thanks in advance for your input.

Not those particular models, but my wife and I split on the 3- versus 4-leg section question. She HATES Gitzo leg locks and is willing to put up with the extra collapsed length. I don't mind the locks, but relish the shorter length for travel. With the head removed, there aren't many suitcases it won't fit in.

Keith, My response won't directly answer your specific question because I have no experience with the 3541. I shoot with the same gear as you do (500 f/4 with 1.4 tc and Wimberly) and I use the GT3530LSV. That combo has been absolutely ideal for me. Very stable. But then I rarely if ever have to worry about fitting the tripod into luggage.

I don't use the 35 series, but I chose a 4 section Gitzo and have no issues at all with it. The GT series are unlike the previous model Gitzos and are much faster to extend/collapse. I can extend/collapse my 4 section Gitzo much faster than I could my previous 3 section Bogen. Gitzo "claims" 4 section stability is just as good as 3 section, and I have no reason to disbelieve them; my 4 section is rock solid.

I use the 1325, a three section model. While I highly doubt a 4 section would be less stable, it does have three more legs to fiddle with, taking it a bit longer to set up. So, I went with a three section. BTW, I prefer the Gitzo twist locks. They don't hang up on brush etc.


Kent in SD

I don't think there's a difference in stability between 3 and 4 section gitzos. I prefer the 4 section models for travel and portability in the field. The shorter length makes them easier to fit into a pack both for travel and for backpacking or carrying around.

Regarding opening the legs, I don't tighten the leg locks when I fold the tripod. I carry it in a tripod bag with the locks open, so that when I get it out the legs drop and I just need to tighten the locks. Saves a few seconds each time I open and close the tripod, and over time minutes, hours, days, etc. It definitly makes the tripod faster to set up.

Carrying the tripod in a tripod bag protects it from sand and other damage. I use a light Tamrac tripod bag (not padded they cost $25) and I replace it when it wears out. That way I get my tripods to last me much longer and also to be in working condition when I get to the locations. Tripods these days, between the carbon fiber and the RRS ballheads, get to $1000 real quick so protecting them is important. For me it's important to protect my tripod as well as my cameras. Sand in ballheads is bad news and so are damaged parts.

The tripod bag has a sling that lets me carry the tripod slung on my shoulder and lets me have both hands free when I walk.

Also, with the new leg locks, the legs don't rotate when you tighten and untighten the locks. There's a groove in each leg, including the center colum, and a stud in the locking mechanism that fits in the groove and prevents the legs from twisting. It's a major improvement and one Gitzo users have been waiting for.

Alain

"Also, with the new leg locks, the legs don't rotate when you tighten and untighten the locks. There's a groove in each leg, including the center colum, and a stud in the locking mechanism that fits in the groove and prevents the legs from twisting. It's a major improvement and one Gitzo users have been waiting for."

And how! I think that would overcome my wife's issues with the leg locks, too. I'd sure recommend that you buy new rather than a used older model for this reason alone, unless you found a really exceptional deal.

I'll second Alain's points about stability of 3- versus 4-joint models and protection, especially from fouling of the ballhead. I've got a nearly 20 year-old Arca Swiss B-1, and it has jammed several times over the years. I haven't got around to replacing it, but it's past due. In addition to the jamming issues, the thing weighs just about as much as my 1349 legs!

Here's another indicator for a lightweight carry bag like the Tamrac: My ancient legs still look new, but the ballhead is so beaten and abused that there's no remaining black finish on the protruding edges. It looks like I dragged it behind my truck, and in truth I've done just about everything else I could to beat it up. I cover the head when I hike, but that's only because I keep forgetting my carry bag. Full protection including the leg locks is a better idea.

This maybe off topic, but I recommend Really Right Stuff (RRS) ballheads. They're the best, in my opinion (I don't get any money for saying that, it's just how I feel). I had (and still have, but don't use) Gitzo ballheads and RRS is better. I use the large size ballhead for my main work (I use a medium format camera with a digital back right now) but the other sizes are also very good. I like the screw in model (for tightening the plate) instead of the lock down model, but again that's a matter of personal preference. I'm not quite sure why I prefer the screw-tighten approach. Maybe I feel I have more control over how hard, or light, I can tighten the plate.

I have the GT3540 LS and have never had any problems with stability. The old leg locks kept me from Gitzo for years, but with the new twist locks and Anti Leg Rotation system, the tripod is a joy to use.

Keith, Canoga Camera currently has a sale. You can save 10% and shipping is reasonable.
http://www.canogacamera.com/tripods.aspx
If you order before 2 PM PST, they will ship the same day.

I just ordered the 3541 to use with my Wimberley head as well as a 500 mm lens or 70-200 + TC/

Carol

A little over a year ago I went through the same decision process. I bought the 3540LS for its lighter weight and shorter length. It has been great. The new leg locks are super and don't twist at all. I use it with a RRS BH55, Wimberly Sidekick, 1DMK2 and 500 F4 with TC and flash with out any problem.

I bought the GT3541LS because of the shorter length collapsed and have been very happy with this tripod. The only time you have to extend the legs to the maximum is when you are standing. The additional time and effort to release one more leg segment over what would be needed with the 3 leg version is negligible. Most of the time I am sitting which means lengthening only 2 segments. I would recommend the GT3541LS highly.

Thanks to all for your replies. I appreciate the input