New gitzos who has them?

[Jonathan]

While a new tripod is not in my near future one can dream. After seeing andreas setup with the 400 2.8 it sure got me thinking. I am using the gitzo 1410 which is about 9 pounds, a 500 f4 and the wimberely version 1. Kinda gets heavy after a few miles up a mountain:biglaugh:
I can lose more than half this weight ideally. So it really has me thinking and it would allow me to be a bit more comfortable and daring:biggrin: Also with the older gitzo's I am almost always pushing the 50Ib checkin limit. That is without the 500. I have also noticed some of the smaller charter jets in say africa limit check-in to around 30Ibs. So there are lots of advantages:)

Ok to the point:) reviews!!! who has them? Also what do your setups weigh that are either 400 2.8, 500's or 600+?
Mine is 21.18 Ibs:biggrin:

[Mao]

First I need to get something to put it on a tripod Jonathan....then I'll get back to you. But don't hold your breath.

[Keith]

I went from a G1548 down to a g1325 and more than handles the 500mm weight :) and sure a heck of allot lighter :D , I know I appreciate it.

[EV Wonder]

When I use a tripod, which should be a lot more often, I use the G1327 Gitzo tripod with a Markins Q-Ball M10 ballhead and their TB-20 base. It has a load capacity of 80lbs and performs flawlessly. I personally think it's a terrific combo.

[Rudi]

First I need to get something to put it on a tripod Jonathan....then I'll get back to you. But don't hold your breath.

I'm with you, Mao. Tripods are for pussies! :D :couch:

[chezem]

Rudi,

You don't have a Gitzo tripod. I thought it was only me who succumbed to Perry's pressure and bought one. roflmao;

[Rudi]

Cheryl,

Read above. :D

[Jonathan]

Sheesh how is one to get advice if no one uses tripods:biglaugh::biglaugh:

Thanks keith...oh wise one:notworthy: I shall take note.

Thanks EV i will have to look into that!

[pcho]

I have the Gitzo 3530s, levelling base G1321LVL and Wimberley head II and works well with 600mm lens. The gitzo 3530S and the Gitzo 3530LSV replaces the Gitzo 1325
The gitzo 3530s is shorter version of the Gitzo 3530LSV (this is the same length as the old model gitzo 1325) and thats the only difference between the 2 new models.

The levelling base G1321LVL is also replaced by a new model GS5120LVL


Here are the specs:-

Gitzo 1325 Max height 58.3", closed length 26.4", Max Load 26.4 lbs weight 4.5 lbs

Gitzo 3530S Max height 50.4", closed length 24.0", Max Load 39.6 lbs weight 4.0 lbs

Gitzo 3530LSV Max height 58.3", closed length 26.4", Max Load 39.6 lbs weight 4.0 lbs

Hope this helps

Perry

[Jonathan]

I have the Gitzo 3530s, levelling base G1321LVL and Wimberley head II and works well with 600mm lens. The gitzo 3530S and the Gitzo 3530LSV replaces the Gitzo 1325
The gitzo 3530s is shorter version of the Gitzo 3530LSV (this is the same length as the old model gitzo 1325) and thats the only difference between the 2 new models.

The levelling base G1321LVL is also replaced by a new model GS5120LVL


Here are the specs:-

Gitzo 1325 Max height 58.3", closed length 26.4", Max Load 26.4 lbs weight 4.5 lbs

Gitzo 3530S Max height 50.4", closed length 24.0", Max Load 39.6 lbs weight 4.0 lbs

Gitzo 3530LSV Max height 58.3", closed length 26.4", Max Load 39.6 lbs weight 4.0 lbs

Hope this helps

Perry

thanks perry! As I figured I am carrying around a load as if it were the 600 and not the 500. Actually I think you may even be lighter:biggrin: Ugh I need to upgrade:biglaugh:

[Desert Rat]

Well, I have the 1348 for my bazooka 200-400 and now have a newer 2530 for hiking and travel...

[jimtfoto]

Using the Gitzo 1325 with original Wimberley and Sigmonster.
Works great.
cheers,
jim

[Jonathan]

Well, I have the 1348 for my bazooka 200-400 and now have a newer 2530 for hiking and travel...
Ohhh sounds slick eric! Grats. Let us know how it treats you

Using the Gitzo 1325 with original Wimberley and Sigmonster.
Works great.
cheers,
jim

Welcome Jim! the 1325 is certainly the classic good tripod! With my main concern being dropping pounds from my current gitzo i might as well opt for the new 6x series as I am beginning to like paying more for an additional pound:disgust::disgust: sure will be awhile though:biggrin:

[Rudi]

Oh man! I KNEW I shouldn't start looking!!! I am now considering the Gitzo 2530 - 0.4 kg lighter than my current setup, and it will support 7 kg more!!! (12 kg vs 5 kg at present!)

Why, oh why did I look that up???

[Kevin]

Rudi, resistance is futile!

[Rudi]

Rudi, resistance is futile!

So, what do you use for support, Kevin? (And I'm not talking about your girdle or walking frame :D)

[Canon Bob]

Rudi,Painting a kit lens white is no excuse for needing a stronger tripod......Bob

[Rudi]

Serves me right for inviting you to Pixel-Shooter, Bob! welcome; aboard! :)

[Rudi]

Well, I've gone and ordered the Gitzo GT-2530 plus a few bits and pieces. THANKS A LOT, JONATHAN! :realmad:

[Kevin]

lmao; Rudi! You made it all of 5 hrs before you caved in. That must be some new record. ;)

Not that it matters but I went the economical route. I bought mine off of ebay from Amvona. I paid $65 for a carbon fibre, 3-section legged, 22lb supporting tripod. It looks exactly like the gitzos though I think they're actually bogens. I bought an aluminum one from them a few years back. I just couldn't bring myself to pay $600 for a tripod. Maybe one day when I have a monster lens but not now.

[Rudi]

lmao; Rudi! You made it all of 5 hrs before you caved in. That must be some new record. ;)

:biglaugh::biglaugh::biglaugh: I didn't think of it that way... What do I win??? :D

[Kevin]

Apparently a new tripod, in 10-days time. :)

[Jonathan]

Well, I've gone and ordered the Gitzo GT-2530 plus a few bits and pieces. THANKS A LOT, JONATHAN! :realmad:

ahaha:biglaugh::biglaugh: Sorry Rudi. Think of me though when you go hiking with your tripod and 300 2.8;):biggrin: Ohh I will take payment in photos! further service will require equipment testing and possibly a Visa.

[Rudi]

I am using the gitzo 1410 which is about 9 pounds, a 500 f4 and the wimberely version 1. Kinda gets heavy after a few miles up a mountain:biglaugh:

Wow! I just looked up "Gitzo 1410" on the B&H website, and they quote 8.4 lb just for the legs! Load capacity is 22 lb, which is 4.4 lb less than what I just ordered, the Gitzo 2530. That weighs 3.1 lb and will allegedly support 26.4 lb! They sure are getting better! (Payback time! :D)

I know for a fact (I have researched this to death over the last couple of days :)) that the new Gitzo 6x CF models are the lightest out there (for what they will carry). I guess that is why they ask the prices that they do... rolleyes;

[Jonathan]

Wow! I just looked up "Gitzo 1410" on the B&H website, and they quote 8.4 lb just for the legs! Load capacity is 22 lb, which is 4.4 lb less than what I just ordered, the Gitzo 2530. That weighs 3.1 lb and will allegedly support 26.4 lb! They sure are getting better! (Payback time! :D)

I know for a fact (I have researched this to death over the last couple of days :)) that the new Gitzo 6x CF models are the lightest out there (for what they will carry). I guess that is why they ask the prices that they do... rolleyes;

AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH...Im logging of now and pacing...if only i smoked. That was cruel:biggrin:

[Rudi]

Hey, you think that *I* was planning to spend another AUD $700 plus??? :D

[Harv]

If it helps your conscience, Rudi, I just ordered the GT2530 earlier today. Believe me when I tell you that it is mere coincidence. I didn't read this thrad until after I ordered it. Getting the 500/4 required shedding some pounds from the setup.

[Rudi]

What did you use up till now, Harv???

The reason I ask is that I, like you, tripped over the Manfrotto 055MF3 for sale by Eric (Desert Rat) in the For Sale Forum, and thought "Why not? Might as well get something light and stronger than what I already have...". Then, one thing let to another, and rather than buying second-hand and saving some money, well... here I am with an (already shipped!) GT2530 on the way! :wideeyed:

[Harv]

What did you use up till now, Harv???

The reason I ask is that I, like you, tripped over the Manfrotto 055MF3 for sale by Eric (Desert Rat) in the For Sale Forum, and thought "Why not? Might as well get something light and stronger than what I already have...". Then, one thing let to another, and rather than buying second-hand and saving some money, well... here I am with an (already shipped!) GT2530 on the way! :wideeyed:

I have 2 tripods...

A Benbo B-1 which is a marvelous tank of a tripod and one of the most versatile I've ever seen but it's 20 years old and brand new. I never use it.

A Manfrotto 055B which I have had for as long as the Benbo and is the one I've always used. It's been a great tripod, but at it's limit for the 1D, 500/4 and Wimberley. Plus it weighs 5 lbs.

I wanted to get rid of some of the weight I've added with the 500 and the GT2530 looked to be the best out there for doing that.

[pcho]

I have 2 tripods...

A Benbo B-1 which is a marvelous tank of a tripod and one of the most versatile I've ever seen but it's 20 years old and brand new. I never use it.

A Manfrotto 055B which I have had for as long as the Benbo and is the one I've always used. It's been a great tripod, but at it's limit for the 1D, 500/4 and Wimberley. Plus it weighs 5 lbs.

I wanted to get rid of some of the weight I've added with the 500 and the GT2530 looked to be the best out there for doing that.

Harv,

I have the 1257 and that is the old 6x with anti twist or what ever and I think you are working on the fringe with the 500mm. I have both the GT3530s and GT3530LSV and they are much stronger for the 500mm and onlt weighs about 1/2 a lb less. That my 2cts worth

Perry

[Rudi]

Perry, the 1257 only supports 8 kg, the new 2530 supports 12 kg, more than enough for the 500mm! That's a 50% increase over the older 1257, nothing to sneeze at! Also, the 2530 only weighs 3.1 lb, while the 3530 weighs 4.7 lb, a 1.6 lb increase, not only 1/2 lb...

Like I said, I've done my research! :D

[Harv]

Thanks for the info, Perry. I went through the same exercise that Rudi did and came to the same conclusion. It's rated for twice the weight it will be carrying and is the lightest out there. If it's too flimsy (which I doubt), it will go back.

[pcho]

Thanks for the info, Perry. I went through the same exercise that Rudi did and came to the same conclusion. It's rated for twice the weight it will be carrying and is the lightest out there. If it's too flimsy (which I doubt), it will go back.

the 2530 is great for the 300F2.8 but a lot of guys at naturescapes recommend the 1325 which is the old model for the 3530 series. Anyway you will soon find that out :)

Perry

[Rudi]

The 1325 is rated to 12 kg, just like the new 2530! Like I said (more than once rolleyes;), I've done my research! :D

[Harv]

Hmmmmm..... I think I am just going to back away slowly.

[Rudi]

LOL, no need for that, Harv. :) I was merely trying to point out that the entire range of Gitzo CF tripods has had an increase in rated capacity of 50%. There is no longer the need to buy a newer version of the same tripod that is being replaced, because one model down (in the newer version) will likely give you the same performance that you are used to, at a much reduced weight!

[pcho]

The 1325 is rated to 12 kg, just like the new 2530! Like I said (more than once rolleyes;), I've done my research! :D

Partly agree in what you are saying Rudi. The thickness in the 1325/2530 is almost twice that of the 1257/2530 and I can tell you when you extended the legs of the tripods, the side way vibration of the legs hardly exists in the 1325/3530 tripods whereas the 1257 flexes sideways quite easily. We are not only relying on downward pressure (load capacity) but side ways flex that can be affected by the wind as well.

This is what gitzo specs indicates and I quote " The GT2530 is ideal for use with DSLRs with 200mm lenses (up to a 300mm maximum), lightweight camcorders, and spotting scopes. It offers an excellent load capacity rating of 26.4 lbs (12 kg), and good torsional rigidity. " Beware there is a big difference between load capacity and sideways flex.

In the real life shooting where the wind plays a reasonable part in my shooting habit and where the slightest vibration would affect my keeper rate shots, I think I know which tripod I would want to rely on. I have used my Manfrotto 190 with my 300f2.8 as well, sure it works but I would not rely on it if my life depended on it :) If it was a still day and I am shooting landscapes with cable release then the Manfrotto works perfectly. If I require quick responses, moving my camera left, right, up and down to capture flying birds then I definitely need a much stronger tripod.

That said I would not dispel the 2530, it would do the job well like all gizto tripods would.

Perry

[Rudi]

It's all a compromise, Perry! The best tripod would be a heavy timber surveyor's tripod, but who wants to carry one? In fact, a concrete slab with a cast iron pier would be even better, but we can't always have that either. :)

I agree with you that bigger will always be better (doesn't matter whether you know what to do with it :D) as far as IQ is concerned. It boils down to what you're willing to carry and use in the field. I briefly considered the 1530, then went for the 2530 because it gives me enough margin and yet is still lighter than my current setup. I went for the overkill for the same reason that most people with a 600/4 will go for the 3530, even though it is probably unnecessary.

All that said, I still think that the 2530 should be more than enough for a 500/4. I guess we will let Harv test that theory out for us! :biglaugh:

[pcho]

It's all a compromise, Perry! The best tripod would be a heavy timber surveyor's tripod, but who wants to carry one? In fact, a concrete slab with a cast iron pier would be even better, but we can't always have that either. :)

I agree with you that bigger will always be better (doesn't matter whether you know what to do with it :D) as far as IQ is concerned. It boils down to what you're willing to carry and use in the field. I briefly considered the 1530, then went for the 2530 because it gives me enough margin and yet is still lighter than my current setup. I went for the overkill for the same reason that most people with a 600/4 will go for the 3530, even though it is probably unnecessary.

All that said, I still think that the 2530 should be more than enough for a 500/4. I guess we will let Harv test that theory out for us! :biglaugh:

Did you read this?

This is what gitzo specs indicates and I quote " The GT2530 is ideal for use with DSLRs with 200mm lenses (up to a 300mm maximum), lightweight camcorders, and spotting scopes. It offers an excellent load capacity rating of 26.4 lbs (12 kg), and good torsional rigidity. "

Perry

[Rudi]

Yes I did. That has not changed my opinion! Why? This is what the Gitzo website says about the 3530: "Scaled for professional equipment, medium format and DSLRs with 300mm lens up to 400mm maximum."

Hmmm... I think you should buy a new tripod, Perry! :D

[pcho]

Yes I did. That has not changed my opinion! Why? This is what the Gitzo website says about the 3530: "Scaled for professional equipment, medium format and DSLRs with 300mm lens up to 400mm maximum."

Hmmm... I think you should buy a new tripod, Perry! :D

Haha, the 400mm is heavier than the 600mm :biglaugh::biglaugh::biglaugh:

[Rudi]

Yes, but the the extra focal length magnifies the problem, so if you go by what Gitzo says, you should NOT be using the 3530 with your 500mm or 600mm lenses. In fact, if you go by what Gitzo recommends, you should have the GT5530S (http://www.gitzo.com/Jahia/site/gitzo/pid/4765?gitzoView=flatView&curLevel=1CAT&curFamilyId=NONE&curMarketId=MARKET%3AMKT1&actualPathCategoryKey=1CAT%3AAAA1%3A2CAT%3ABB59%3A 3CAT%3ACC47%3A4CAT%3AD412&productContainer_windowsize=10&ctnscroll_productContainer=&kindOfProductCollectionRequest=productDetail&detailPid=5302). "Recommended for medium and large format or DSLRs with 400 mm and longer lenses." WEIGHS 2.7 KG

Look, I agree with you that a bigger tripod is always going to be better than a smaller one. But neither one os us is going by the Gitzo recommendations. :) We both compromise, just choosing different points at which to set the limit. :D

[pcho]

Yes, but the the extra focal length magnifies the problem, so if you go by what Gitzo says, you should NOT be using the 3530 with your 500mm or 600mm lenses. In fact, if you go by what Gitzo recommends, you should have the GT5530S (http://www.gitzo.com/Jahia/site/gitzo/pid/4765?gitzoView=flatView&curLevel=1CAT&curFamilyId=NONE&curMarketId=MARKET%3AMKT1&actualPathCategoryKey=1CAT%3AAAA1%3A2CAT%3ABB59%3A 3CAT%3ACC47%3A4CAT%3AD412&productContainer_windowsize=10&ctnscroll_productContainer=&kindOfProductCollectionRequest=productDetail&detailPid=5302). "Recommended for medium and large format or DSLRs with 400 mm and longer lenses." WEIGHS 2.7 KG

Ok I am going shooting with trev and taking my 1257 and sell my 3530s and 3530LSV abd save myself saves me heaps of money. LOL hope you get your new toy soon

Perry

[Rudi]

Can I have your 3530s cheap??? I'm buying the 15mm Fisheye and need a good tripod! :D

[Jonathan]

popcorn;

[Rudi]

popcorn;

potty;

:biglaugh:

[Harv]

What a great sideshow. Buying the tripod was worth it just for the admission to this thread. :biglaugh::biglaugh::biglaugh::biglaugh::biglaugh:

[Rudi]

I'll let you in on a secret, Harv - you bought the wrong tripod! :p :biglaugh:

[dmwphoto]

A very en[lightening] thread!

[Kevin]

Hope the new people don't get scared away. ;)

popcorn;

I just love that smiley.

[Rudi]

:hug:

[pcho]

Thanks for the info, Perry. I went through the same exercise that Rudi did and came to the same conclusion. It's rated for twice the weight it will be carrying and is the lightest out there. If it's too flimsy (which I doubt), it will go back.

Hi Harv,

Which model of the 2530 did you purchase? The one with centre column or leveling base? I am sure it will work and work fine. I wasn't trying to put you off with your purchase at all but trying to share my experience with you :biglaugh:

My gear is pretty heavy any way by the time I add the leveling base GS 5210 and the wimberley head II and the wimberley flash bracket so in my case I need the stronger model.

Hope you get it soon and happy shooting

Perry

[Harv]

Hi Harv,

Which model of the 2530 did you purchase? The one with centre column or leveling base? I am sure it will work and work fine. I wasn't trying to put you off with your purchase at all but trying to share my experience with you :biglaugh:

My gear is pretty heavy any way by the time I add the leveling base GS 5210 and the wimberley head II and the wimberley flash bracket so in my case I need the stronger model.

Hope you get it soon and happy shooting

Perry

Centre column... standard GT2530. Not the EX version.

[Rudi]

That is the one I got, Harv. Briefly considered the EX version, but didn't want the added complexity and instability that comes with it (same with the leveling base). My Manfrotto comes with a sideways column, and I've only used that feature once or twice, mainly to try it out. Seeing that I won't be using that feature with my heaviest lenses, and that I am keeping my Manfrotto, I'd rather go with the simplest, sturdiest setup (I can always buy extra accessories later if my photography interests change enough to warrant expensive Gitzo accessories :D).

P.S. Once I've used my new tripod for a while, I plan to do a little "mini-review", to help other Pixel-Shooters considering the purchase, I'd appreciate your thought, too, Harv, Perry (and anyone else) once you guys have used the new Gitzo tripods a few times.

[chezem]

You'll love it I''m sure Jonathan and Rudi,

A breeze to readjust and those carbon fibre legs are so light yet strong. I've got the 1257 LVL. I'll need a larger one when I get a 600mm. :cheer:

[Rudi]

Well, Cheryl, I should get it sometimes this coming week (if all goes well). No time like the present for you to come down and visit! Bring your MkIII and Gitzo tripod, and any lenses I do not have! :D

[Harv]

Rudi, the non-EX version is also .9 lb lighter. That's another reason I bought that one.

[Rudi]

Rudi, the non-EX version is also .9 lb lighter. That's another reason I bought that one.

Yup, that was another consideration for me, too. Great minds think alike! (What's left of them, anyway :D)

[Rudi]

Just FYI folks, my new Gitzo GT2530 arrived today! :cheer: I'm very impressed with B&H service - I ordered the thing late on Friday night our time (about 9 p.m. locally), it arrived in Australia over the weekend and cleared Customs yesterday late afternoon. Obviously it then made the truck for the south coast, and was waiting for me at the Post Office this morning (Tuesday)! :D

So far, I'm impressed with it, but then I've just unpacked it and tried it out indoors. The "dust bag" supplied by Gitzo is a joke. but then you don't get anything at all from the other manufacturers, so I guess they can get away with it. Luckily, my deal included a padded Bogen bag, which is good, because my Manfrotto padded bag is starting to look a bit frayed (still staying together, I think it's mainly cosmetic damage, but there are a few strands and threads hanging out of it :)).

Harv, I think you will be happy with your purchase. Let us know when you get yours, and what you think of it.

EDIT: The new Gitzo will travel in my old Manfrotto bag after all! Times have changed, it seems, in the last few years. The padded Bogen bag is... well... let's just say "not as well made" as my old Manfrotto bag. Padding is a little thinner, but I could live with that - it's the crappy zipper (that would drive me nuts every time I wanted to get the tripod out of the bag) that made me change my mind. :)