Gitzo GT-0530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod

Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED

03/20/2008 11:26:23 AM · #1

Does anybody have some hands-on experience with this light-weight tripod, especially with regard to how far you can stretch with the weight load (eg. a Nikon D300 with the fixed 300mm F4 tele lens)?
Thanks in advance!

Anti-Martyr

Fujifilm FinePix S5 Pro

03/20/2008 11:55:15 AM · #2

Out of curiousity, doesn't that lens have a tripod collar?

03/20/2008 01:20:26 PM · #3

Yes, it does.

03/20/2008 02:04:29 PM · #4

I'll try to generalize this a bit more.
This tripod is rated to support loads up to 11 lbs (~5 kg).
My experience is limited with tripods, but I would like to buy the lightest possible that would still do the job reliably. I am upgrading to a Nikon D300(~2 lbs-->1kg) and my biggest lens so far is the above mentioned 300mm Nikon lens (3.2 lbs -->~1.5 kg) with tripod collar.

Would somebody with more extensive experience in tripods recommend to go ahead given the parameters, or shoot for sturdier (and heavier) tripods?

03/20/2008 09:24:18 PM · #5

Well, 70 views, no clue... This might be a too specific question.

Anyway, I browsed through the web and found a useful-looking article: //www.bythom.com/support.htm

According to that, I'll just stick to a firmer and heavier support.

Message edited by author 2008-03-20 21:41:35.

Rungeman

Canon EOS-1D Mark IIn

Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM

03/23/2008 10:33:45 AM · #6

redpanda - I have also been looking at light tripods (all too often reduce the weight in your wallet more than the weight of the standard tripod).

I am strongly considering the feisol (//www.feisol.com/english/feisolen.htm) range - also sold through ebay or directly on their website. No bad reviews located but definately a less expensive alternative to Manfrotto and Gitzo. Sorry, can't help with this tripod specifically but have only heard good quality comments on Gitzo (I have only used Manfrotto in the past).

One additional review comparing Feisol and Gitzo can be found here - seems like the choice is dependent on your needs. Personally, I remain frustrated that there is no good site comparing manufacturers of tripods like bags (see www.cambags.com)

Anyway - hope this helped.