Ok, I have a chance to get a good tripod and my budget is about $550. I want to make sure I get it right this time and have something to last a very long time. I am leaning towards a Gitzo GT2530 Mountaineer 6x Carbon Fiber Tripod. Would this handle a Mark II N, 300 f4 IS (+ 1.4 extender) and maybe a 580 speedlite? I also have a 70-200 2.8 IS too. I shoot wildlife, landscapes and macros. I don't have anything bigger than these lenses and I wanted to get some feedback before I pull the trigger. Thanks!
Short answer, "yes". Long answer, "yes it will". That most certainly is a tripod built to last "a very long time". Be sure to budget for a head as well.
Peace,
Todd
Nov 11, 2007 at 09:30 PM
Steve Spencer Offline • • • • • • • Upload & Sell: On
I agree with Todd. The Gitzo 2-Series (2530, 2540, etc.) should be able to handle the 70-200 f/2.8 and the 300 f/4. When it is windy the 3-Series (3530, 3540, etc.) might be better and it would allow you to upgrade to other lenses, so it would be worth considering, but the 3-series is going to be a bit beyond you budget and the 2-Series should be fine if you don't get longer lenses. I hope this helps.
I have the Kirk BH-3 and it is a great ballhead. Together with the 2530 it would make an excellent setup and as long as you don't get any larger/longer glass it should serve you very well for very many years.
Now I get to agree with Steve - having owned the BH-3 I can say that it is a superb head and should pair nicely with your current gear as well as the GT2530. Happy shooting!
Follow up question. What about the Gitzo 2540? The only difference between the two is that it is 4 section instead of 3. Is a 4 section as sturdy as 3? One advantage is that it folds up smaller in length. What are the pros and cons of the 4 section? Thanks.
You seem to have the pros and cons down. The four section tripod folder up smaller which is nice, but some think the three section tripods are a bit sturdier. Most report that with the Gitzo's, however, the four section tripods are just about if not as sturdy as the three section tripods. My advice is that if you care bout folded size, buy the 2540. I hope this helps.
2540's max height will be less than the 2530, it will take a little longer to deploy the 4-section model in a hurry, and the lowest leg section is not as robust as that of the 2530. You gain compactness but compromise on weight with 3 additional leg sections and 3 additional leg collets.
My 2530 EX measures 23 3/4 inches from the top of the spider to the bottom of the feet. Add the head and platform, and if that's too long, get the 2540. You won't regret either one.
Just placed the order for the Gitzo 2530 Mountaineer from Allen's Camera in PA for $479.99. First order from them and the prices and customer service are fantastic!
