milmoejoe
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Buy and Sell: On
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 Beware- Gitzo tripod failures !!! | |
Please forgive me for this (slight off topic) rant!
I (and many others) have a very serious concern with the newer Gitzo tripods.
This year's "Systematic" tripod systems feature an interchangeable "bowl" or "base plate" which has been completely falling out for a number of photographers!
These tripods are shipped to you fully assembled with the tightening nut still loosened. Furthermore, the new design lacks the strength to keep this nut tightened with regular use! (Imagine having 1 lug nut attached to your wheel hub to keep your wheels attached!)
As you can imagine, this is a serious concern for nature and other photographers who carry their setup over their shoulder. There are a number of other discussion threads on other forums where photographers are experiencing complete losses of $10,000+ of equipment 
I myself experienced this with a recent "upgrade" from the GT1325 to the newer GT3530LS. Fortunately, my bowl became dislodged indoors with no harm done. Others haven't been so lucky!
Meanwhile, Gitzo refuses to acknowledge the issue. Responses to affected photographers are along the lines of "This shouldn't be a problem...Simply tighten the torx screw...Why would you ever carry your expensive equipment over your shoulder? Yikes!?!"
At a minimum, I think gitzo needs to acknowledge the issue and educate their customers. Better yet, I think they need to stand behind their product and offer a "fix" (simple stop screw) or a refund. This is pathetic!
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