Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I bought this for my wife to use, along with a Really Right Stuff BH-55 Pro ball head. Now I have tripod envy. It's not that my Manfrotto 190MF3 is a bad tripod--just that this tripod is taller, sturdier, and more stable.
Every tripod has its purpose. I do a lot of macro work, and like that I can squeeze the 190MF3 into small spaces low to the ground. I also like that the Manfrotto is light enough to be easily carried all day on either a photo pack or a regular backpack. But the maximum height of that tripod leaves it either too low (with center column not extended) or less stable, particularly with a wildlife lens or in windy conditions (with center column extended). This Gitzo tripod is rock solid for general purpose work--but the longer legs are more ungainly when low to the ground and it weighs a bit more. The only solution for us is to own and use both.
There are a couple things you should know before buying this tripod. First, the center column on this tripod is set off-center, part of the design for this tripod so that the column can be rotated quickly to a horizontal position. Second, Gitzo stands behind its products, so that is factored into the price. Third, the center column comes preloaded with a hook at the bottom, so one can loop weight to the bottom for added stability. And lastly, the legs lock into any position, rather than into 3-4 fixed positions. I don't have trouble with this latter feature, but I can see that some folks might get fussy when leveling the tripod on even ground since they may not be able to eye-ball leg angles. If you're a klutz with tripods, you might look at one of the sister Gitzo tripods before making a decision.
The RRS ball head was a great find, too. While the Manfrotto is paired with an ultralight Acratech ball head, the slightly heavier RRS ball head locks down more easily, and it maneuvers better due to its tension control.
Different strokes for different folks--there's a lot to like about this tripod. The question you must ask yourself is whether the unique mix of features matches up to the way you do photography. And perhaps whether there is enough equipment to share with your spouse.
"HONEEEYY, I need your tripod! And the 180mm macro lens!"
Click Here to see more reviews about: Gitzo GT2531EX Series 2 Carbon 6x 3 Section G-Lock Explorer Tripod - Replaces Gitzo GT2530EX (Black)
The GT2531EX Explorer tripod makes unconventional shots possible. The tripods legs can be set at any angle and moved independently while the center column tilts and rotates freely to any position. The 6X Carbon fiber used to make the GT2531EX maximizes rigidity, vibration absorption, and lightweight performance. Also, the solid machined aluminum upper disk with Safe Lock material that cuts vibration and improves grip between tripod and head. This tripod is recommended for lightweight camcorders and DSLRs with lenses up to 300mm. This replaces the Gitzo GT2530EX.
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