Gitzo GT5531S Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs - Supports 55 lbs (25kg)

Comments about Gitzo GT5531S Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs - Supports 55 lbs (25kg):

Wow, this thing is big. I had a Gitzo Basalt Series 2 rated at 22 Lbs and it's little compared to this one. Rock Solid, did I say Rock Solid. If you are 6 ft tall I would recommend getting the center column also. I am 5ft 10" and have to bend down just a little, with a Arcaswiss Z monoball, This tripod is almost as light as my Basalt. Great Tripod....

Comments about Gitzo GT5531S Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs - Supports 55 lbs (25kg):

I needed to remove all shake and vibration from my 600mm long range setup. Wish I bought this tripod from the start. Pay once, cry once. It lives up to the hype.

Comments about Gitzo GT5531S Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs - Supports 55 lbs (25kg):

I chose the GT5531s because I was unwilling to compromise on a support system for my long lens and camera. With the legs fully extended and mated to the Induro GHB2 gimbal head, my camera is at eye level, so it sets up quickly and accurately every time. The support is solid, it is easy to set up, and I am able to forget about the camera/lens support and concentrate on my subject when shooting. The twist locks design is easy to use and a real confidence builder. The width of the top platform is impressive and adds to the stability of the system. Good job, Gitzo!

Comments about Gitzo GT5531S Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs - Supports 55 lbs (25kg):

I use this with my 600mm lens and it works great with the Wimberley gimbal
The quick twist lock of the legs makes it easy to extend and adjust on uneven ground
The only reason I am giving this 4 starts is because it does not extend high enough for me (I'm 6 2")
I find myself crouching a bit when I use

Comments about Gitzo GT5531S Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs - Supports 55 lbs (25kg):

I purchased this tripod shortly after acquiring a Nikon 600mm, F/4 lens. I wanted to insure that I had a tripod stable enough to use with that large of a lens. I recently purchased this tripod and thus, haven't had much time yet to use it; however, with it's large diameter, 3-section legs I am confident this unit will deliver.

Comments about Gitzo GT5531S Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs - Supports 55 lbs (25kg):

I use it for Macro, Wildlife, Airshows, and Night photography. I needed something that was light and strong and the GT, "IS"! Very quick and secure when setting up; I like the leg locking features that ADD more grip when pressure is applied. I can't find anything I don't like about it.

Comments about Gitzo GT5531S Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs - Supports 55 lbs (25kg):

I use this tripod with wimberley gimbal II to support my Canon 600 f4. This tripod is rock solid and worth every penny. I used other tripod but nothing compare to this. It's night and day different.

Comments about Gitzo GT5531S Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs - Supports 55 lbs (25kg):

First, unless you are using 200-400/400/500/600/800, you may not gain much value using this tripod vs. a 35-- series Gitzo. Gitzo's 3531 & 3541 remain the "industry standard" as the all-around, daily-use CF tripod, with RRS's new TVC-33 attracting a lot of attention & buyers. For me, the strength-to-girth ratio a VERY small price to pay for the absolute confidence the 5531 invokes.

My final path to the 5531S began after: 1. I went from a 200-400 to a 400 2.8, and the 3-lb. weight increase of the faster lens; 2. The RRS TVC-33 didn't accept my Gitzo leveling base. Eventually, you get (sick) tired of "trading up", even when you can sell at a good price. I sold a Gitzo 35-- series to acquire the 5531, and I couldn't be happier. It's a much better platform for a large lens, and its still quite portable vs. the 35--. Actually, the 5531 becomes my new "standard" pod, just not on a ten-mile hike!

I used a Gitzo 1325 for years, and really appreciated the minimalist 3-leg ergonomics, plus the quick action & ultimate necessity of a leveling base in the great outdoors. The "S" means systematic, and the 5531s utilizes the same leveling base as the 3&4 series Gitzos. This means even more if you anticipate using more than one Gitzo systematic tripod, as you can swap accessories - easily & quickly. But, there were many times (curse that wind) a bit more girth & stability - even with short glass - that the 5531 offers would have been appreciated. When you're working relatively close to a vehicle, two extra lbs. of tripod is negligible.

I'm 5'-11". The 5531, with the added 1 1/2" of height from the leveling base, makes the 5531 w/DSLR virtually at eye level with legs fully extended - higher yet if you want to use a gimbal head. It's nice to not have to fuss with partial leg extension you get with 4-leg versions to get to full height. If you're 6'+, or you expect to be using these legs for mostly birding, then you'll likely want to look at the 5541 in this class - or a TVC-33. Still, the Gitzo a VERY known quantity, and (I think) it's smart to standardize on one manufacturer here.

Comments about Gitzo GT5531S Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs - Supports 55 lbs (25kg):

This might be the best tripod around for those looking for a transportable support that does not compromise at all on stability.

I do trek extensively with this tripod and a RRS BH-55 head, and it is for sure a lot heavier than most of the other tripods used in the field, but I just love the level of sharpness I get with my d3x thanks to this beast whatever the conditions.

Cheers,
Bernard

Comments about Gitzo GT5531S Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs - Supports 55 lbs (25kg):

I bought this for use primarily with a gimbal head and Canon 800mm lens. Overall I am very satisfied with it, as due to the carbon fiber legs it is not too heavy but yet it is solid. The "G-Lock" twist locks on the legs are actually faster and better than I expected, just a 1/2 turn or so is all it takes to loosen or tighten them. The locks don't need to be tightened hard to get them locked enough that the legs don't slip.

While I can see room for some small improvements, overall I am quite satisfied with this tripod. Taller people (ones approaching or exceeding 6 feet) might need the taller GT5541LS with 4 leg sections.

Comments about Gitzo GT5531S Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Legs - Supports 55 lbs (25kg):

I wanted something rock steady. The 5531S delivered! I love the twist lock system. Very easy to adjust. I use this with a Really Right Stuff ballhead (BH-55). They're a perfect combo!