Gitzo G1325 Mk2 Mountaineer Inter Pro Studex Performance Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs w/Flat Plate (Height 6.1-58.7", Maximum Load 26.5 lbs)

Rating:
Summary: Simply the best
Review: This is the G1325 carbon fiber Gitzo tripod without any center column. It's incredibly stable, well-constructed, and beautifully finished, and will support as much as an equivalent aluminum tripod weighing nearly twice as much.

I bought this tripod for use with my largest bird photography rig, consisting of digital SLR, large 500mm. telephoto lens, and frequently, 1.4x or 2x teleconverters. The G1325 handles this load beautifully, and is light enough to carry in the field.

People who would like a tripod that includes a center column can either buy the versions of this tripod that come equipped with one (for example, the G1327, which includes a rapid column), or else add a rapid or geared center column to this basic model. Yet another option is to purchase and use a G1321 leveling base, which tilts 15 degrees in any direction to allow level framing of photos even in situations where the ground may be sloping.

Some photographers may be shocked by the high price of this item, but there is truth in the old saying that no one ever regrets buying the best. This is an item that will last for many years and will pay dividends in the form of the many sharp, vibration-free photographs it will enable its owner to take.

It should be noted that some photographers never get used to the twist-release leg section controls for which Gitzo has become famous (or infamous). Personally, I have found the flip-lock relases of Bogen/Manfrotto tripods easier and faster to operate, but the Gitzo legs are more durable and with repetition the opening and closing of the legs becomes quite easy and routine.

Overall, this is quite simply the best tripod I've ever owned, and I could not be happier with it.