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Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Rapid Column) - Supports 26.4 lbs (12 kg)

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The Gitzo GT2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs uses advanced "Carbon 6X" carbon fiber material for its leg construction. This improved tubing is stronger, lighter and as resistant as its 12 layer predecessor. Carbon "6X" is manufactured using a complex, 3-D process weaving 6 layers of carbon fiber into smooth, solid constructed tubes.

The GT2530 is ideal for use with DSLRs with 200mm lenses (up to a 300mm maximum), lightweight camcorders, and spotting scopes. It offers an excellent load capacity rating of 26.4 lbs (12 kg), and good torsional rigidity.

Anti-Rotation Leg (ALR) System
The Anti-Rotation Leg (ALR) system makes it quick and easy to open and close the tripod. Simply turn all of the locking rings at once and the whole leg can be pulled out in seconds.
G-Lock Design
The G-Lock mechanism has been completely redesigned in order to achieve a 20% increase in rigidity, faster operation and stronger, safer locking. G-Lock's special design also provides a "gravity lock" effect: the higher the load applied vertically to the leg, the stronger the lock.
Redesigned Upper Discs & Bolts
This tripod features completely redesigned upper discs and bolts. The discs, which are composed of aluminum, feature a safe lock material that reduces vibrations and improves head locking. The improved high-grade stainless steel bolt design prevents it from dropping inside the column when adjusted, and makes controlling the tread length stress-free. The redesigned bolts are also corrosion and oxidation resistant.
Ground-Level Set
This feature allows you to remove the center column to save weight and get the camera closer to the ground. The upper disk is removed from the center column and inserted directly into the upper casting using the column hook. No tools required.
1mm Gitzo 6X Carbon Fiber Tube
Gitzo was able to develop a six-crossed multilayer carbon fiber 30% lighter than the previous 1.5mm generation that features the same exceptional performance of stability and vibration absorption and unbeatable quality.
Performance Design
Performance design allows the legs to be set individually at 24°, 55° and 90° to cover every angle you want to shoot.
Hook
Redesigned built-in, spring-loaded retractable hook on the bottom of the center column provides a place to hang a stabilizing counterweight such as camera, sand or water bags.
Removable Leg Tips
Removable rubber leg tips are interchangeable with Gitzo universal accessories such as the big foot, long spike, etc.
Rapid Column
Grooved Rapid center column, with locking collar, for improved stability.
General
Load Capacity 26.4 lbs (12 kg)
Maximum Height 63.4" (161 cm)
Maximum Height w/o Column Extended 54.3" (138 cm)
Minimum Height 13" (33 cm)
Folded Length 25.6" (65 cm)
Head Attachment Fitting 1/4"-20 & 3/8"-16 (reversible stud)
Weight 3.1 lb (1.4 kg)
Legs
Material 6 layer carbon fiber
Leg Stages/Sections 2/3
Leg Lock Type Twist
Independent Leg Spread Yes
Spiked/Retractable Feet No (optional)
Center Brace No
Center Column
Center Column Type Rapid (sliding)
Center Column Sections 1

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs
 
5.0

(based on 16 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (16)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Easily adjusted (13)
  • Lightweight (13)
  • Locks in tight (13)
  • Good footing (12)
  • Smooth movement (11)

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Travel (12)
    • Sports (6)
    • Home (4)
    • Outdoor events / games (3)
      • Reviewer Profile:
      • Enthusiast (8), Professional (3), Semi-professional (3)

    REVIEWS

    Reviewed by 16 customers

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    Displaying reviews 1-16

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    5.0

    Great backpacking tripod

    By wings

    from Calgary, Alberta, Canada

    About Me Hobbyist/Enthusiast

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Good Footing
    • Lightweight
    • Locks In Tight
    • Smooth Movement

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Travel

      Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

      I carry this without the centre rod while backpacking.

      It's stable, relatively light weight, and so far very durable.

      Comment on this review

       
      5.0

      Another Great Product from Gitzo!

      By Windham Photography

      from Dallas, TX

      About Me Professional

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Easily Adjusted
      • Good Footing
      • Lightweight
      • Locks In Tight
      • Rugged
      • Smooth Movement

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Travel

        Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

        I use this tripod for my travel and location jobs. It's light and functional. My only gripe is that the camera is only about 6 feet high at maximum.

        Comment on this review

         
        5.0

        nice expensive little baby

        By rohn44

        from milan, italy

        About Me Professional

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Easily Adjusted
        • Good Footing
        • Lightweight
        • Locks In Tight
        • Rugged
        • Smooth Movement

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Travel

          Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

          nice and light while stable and sturdy

          Comment on this review

          (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

           
          5.0

          Excellent light-weight tripod

          By Far North Photographer

          from Anchorage, Alaska

          About Me Semi-Professional

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Easily Adjusted
          • Good Footing
          • Lightweight
          • Locks In Tight
          • Smooth Movement

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Travel

            Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

            As a long-time owner of multiple Gitzo alloy tripods, I am delighted with my recent purchase of my first carbon fiber tripd, a Gitzo GT-2530. The non-rotating legs, 1/4-turn tightening collars, and the light weight make it a joy to use. Its stability is better than anticipated, and it feels lighter than it is.

            Comment on this review

            (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

             
            5.0

            Showing Off the Difference

            By Dwain!

            from Augusta, Georgia

            About Me Semi-Professional

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Easily Adjusted
            • Good Footing
            • Locks In Tight
            • Rugged
            • Smooth Movement

            Cons

            • Leg tip fell off

            Best Uses

            • Nature and Wildlife
            • Special Events
            • Sports
            • Travel

            Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

            I first used the tripod this weekend as an instructor in an area wide photography festival. I used my old aluminum tripod against the new carbon fiber for comparison, primarily weight, and of course there is no comparison. I got to actually use it for the first time in the field while assisting another instructor. Quite frankly it was the very tripod I wish I had along while working to get to the top of Clingmans Dome last year (age being the factor here). I had no trouble adjusting height or balance. I had no trouble in quickly opening, closing and locking the tripod's legs. The only problem was one of the leg tips came off, but fortunately landed on the boardwalk and not the swamp. It quickly screwed back into place. From a technical perspective, it is A+, with weight being the factor that let me pay such a price for such an important piece of equipment. Given the right ballhead, this is one outstanding item of equipment that is headed to Alaska with me next month.

            Comment on this review

            (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

             
            5.0

            Best Tripod Ever!!

            By Gil

            from Costa Mesa, CA

            About Me Semi-Professional

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Easily Adjusted
            • Good Footing
            • Lightweight
            • Locks In Tight

            Cons

            • expensive

            Best Uses

            • Hiking
            • Studio

            Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

            I use this tripod, along with a manfrotto 468MG HYDROSTATIC BALL HEAD w/RC4. Don't let this tripod's lightweight material fool you, Its very strong, and stable when I use it to support my view camera, hasselblad, 35mm with large lens, all with no problem at all.
            This has been the best investment I have made, I can see my grand children using this tripod long after I am done with it.

            Comment on this review

            (2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

             
            5.0

            Gitzo goes everywhere with me

            By RJ

            from Long Hill, New Jersey

            About Me Hobbyist/Enthusiast

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Easily Adjusted
            • Lightweight
            • Smooth Movement

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Home
              • Nature
              • Special Events
              • Sports
              • Travel

              Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

              I'm an intermediate level photographer with 30 years of experience, the last 4 years with a Nikon D70 and the 18-70mm Nikon DX and 55-200 Nikon DX. During these last 4 years I've actively worked to increase the quality of my work. One aspect I've struggled with is image blur. After tackling many aspects of this issue I decided I must invest in a quality tripod and ball head.

              I had two other tripods, one twist lock and one with lever locking legs, and prefer the twist lock, so after reading many reviews on many blogs, I ordered the Gitzo. The engineering is superb and set-up intuitive. The twist legs are smooth and simple to extend and release, the center column is easy to remove or insert upside down, the multiple angle locking legs adjust to accommodate uneven terrain, and the tripod is light enough that I always carry it with me.

              There is a distinctly noticeable improvement in images from shooting situations in which I'd previously seen blur.

              The steep price (with ballhead, over $1000) had kept me from purchasing sooner - I debated purchasing a better lens versus a stable support. In the end, I knew I'd need the support for a better lens and spend the money on the tripod. I'm absolutely delighted with this choice and wish I'd done it sooner.

              Comment on this review

              (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

               
              5.0

              Gitzo 2530

              By little barb

              from canada

              About Me Hobbyist/Enthusiast

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Easily Adjusted
              • Good Footing
              • Lightweight
              • Locks In Tight
              • Rugged
              • Smooth Movement

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Hiking
                • Travel

                Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

                light weight...just what I needed for hiking easy to set up, even with the column can be just 18"off the ground...perfect for macros.

                The feet come loose and are easily lost.

                Comment on this review

                (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                 
                5.0

                Lighter than it looks.

                By Casso

                from Sofia, Bulgaria

                About Me Hobbyist/Enthusiast

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Easily Adjusted
                • Lightweight
                • Locks In Tight
                • Rugged

                Cons

                • expensive

                Best Uses

                • Home
                • Sports
                • Travel

                Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

                Stable, easy to adjust and light. I am using it with RRS pano equipment.

                Comment on this review

                (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                 
                5.0

                Great Product

                By North

                from Chicago, IL

                About Me Hobbyist/Enthusiast

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Easily Adjusted
                • Good Footing
                • Lightweight
                • Locks In Tight
                • Rugged

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Outdoor Photography
                  • Travel

                  Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

                  I did quite a lot of research before buying a tripod, and I’m glad I did. I’ve read too many horror stories about cheap tripod look-a-likes, and I didn’t want to go through all that. GT2530 is great. Recently I’ve been doing some photography near the shore. There are always some strong winds coming from the lake, but the tripod was steady as a rock. Locks are easy to work with, but just be careful not to pinch yourself (I did and it hurt a bit). Overall, a great tripod for all my needs.

                  Comment on this review

                  (4 of 4 customers found this review helpful)

                   
                  5.0

                  the perfect set of legs!

                  By Jmc

                  from Texas

                  About Me Professional

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Easily Adjusted
                  • Good Footing
                  • Lightweight
                  • Locks In Tight
                  • Rugged
                  • Smooth Movement

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • best all around
                    • Sports
                    • Travel

                    Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

                    I have almost every sized gitzo in my shooting gear from old 320 to huge 5 series. this little gt2530 is the best travel and all around legs I have ever seen! I put a small Markins q3 on it and it handles my 400mm 3.5 nikon fine.With airports making life hard on over wieght bags this was great on my trip to argentina. Its also a big improvement over the old legs without the ani leg twist. much faster to setup and take down.This may soon replace all my legs with the exception of the 505 for 4x5.

                    Comment on this review

                     
                    5.0

                    High Quality, Good Stability, Very Light

                    By kujira

                    from Yokoham, JAPAN

                    About Me Hobbyist/Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Easily Adjusted
                    • Good Footing
                    • Lightweight
                    • Locks In Tight
                    • Smooth Movement
                    • Stability

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Home
                      • Sports
                      • Travel

                      Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

                      All parts of this tripod are high quality.
                      The stability is very good but this is very light.
                      This is a great product.

                        • Similar:
                        • Slik and Belbon (both are Japanese tripod)

                        Comment on this review

                        (4 of 4 customers found this review helpful)

                         
                        5.0

                        High quality and light tripod

                        By Jokke

                        from Finland

                        About Me Hobbyist/Enthusiast

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Easily Adjusted
                        • Good Footing
                        • Lightweight
                        • Locks In Tight
                        • Smooth Movement

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                          • Home
                          • Office
                          • Special Events
                          • Sports
                          • Travel

                          Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

                          This tripod is very light, yet sturdy. Quality seems top-notch, the only minor quibble is that the leg extension locks have a slight plastic feel (with carbon fiber legs this may be unavoidable).

                          When ordering I was concerned if it would stand tall enough for me (6' 2"), but with a BH-3 ballhead and camera on top of it, I don't feel the need to extend the center column at all.

                          Comment on this review

                          (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                           
                          5.0

                          Beautiful, high quality, ease of use

                          By lusanti

                          from Pasadena, CA

                          About Me Hobbyist/Enthusiast

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Easily Adjusted
                          • Good Footing
                          • Lightweight
                          • Locks In Tight
                          • Rugged
                          • Smooth Movement

                          Cons

                            Best Uses

                              Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

                              Using the 2530 for a variety of applications have been a pleasure. Light weight but strong, quick to extend and collapse - includes center hook to hang gear (giving added stability if desired). I find it perfectly capable of toting along on walks/hikes of several miles. Extension is nice -- at 5'8", I would have to tip-toe with legs at full extension. Aside from practical application and ease of use, the quality of build is evident - beautiful work of engineering.

                              Comment on this review

                              (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                               
                              5.0

                              A great investment

                              By Mcguyver

                              from NY, NY

                              Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

                              Light, rigid, versatile, fast setup, and portable. That pretty much covers every need I have (except for being cheap, but I'll still give it 5 stars for value). The twist lock leg is simple, fast, and secure. For example, if using your right hand and holding the head with your left, a quick half twist down loosens and up tightens. It's carbon so ham-fisted types need to take it easy. Surprisingly little strength is needed to get a tight hold with no creep. An elegant solution that also keeps weight and size to a minimum. I use this for my 1DSMkII and any lenses I care to haul around in all sorts of conditions and situations. It performs perfectly and unobtrusively. What more could I ask?

                              Expertise: Professional

                              Previous Equivalent Item Owned: Too much

                              Comment on this review

                              (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                               
                              5.0

                              Very light-weight, handles heavy loads

                              By Richard Shirley

                              from MA

                              Comments about Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs:

                              I was very impressed when I first picked up this tripod. It is ultra-light (3.1 pounds including the center post) for the weight it can support (they claim 26 pounds but I will not go that far). However, when placed on a firm platform (I tested on concrete) it is very rigid. Truly remarkable. Great for bird photography while travelling.

                              Problems Encountered: None. The 4 on ease of use is only because I prefer levers to twist lock leg extensions.

                              Previous Equivalent Items Owned: Bogen and Gitzo tripods - several

                              Items I Recommend: For a big lens (400 or 500 mm) use a Wimberley head

                              Comment on this review

                              Displaying reviews 1-16

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                              Gitzo GT-2530 Mountaineer 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs (Rapid Column) - Supports 26.4 lbs (12 kg)
                              • Lifetime Warranty
                               
                               
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