p.1 #2 · Latest Feisol Elite CT 3472 rapid version
I have used both, and I cannot say that one is better than the other. For my style it simply does not matter. But I never got pinched by those skin mashing (supposedlly) flip locks on Manrotto/Bogen tripods either.
I would think that if you have used a tripod without this "feature" you won't miss it on the Feisol. My Feisol 3372 is in the car, and I can't recall if it has RAL or not.
HOLD THE PRESSES! I just found the box and it says "Rapid" on it. So it has the RAL, but I set it up just like my non-RAL Dynatran tripod. If you want it, get it. If you don't, skip it. THe world won't come to an end eitaher way.
I DID skip the center column and haven't missed it yet.