Gitzo GK3580QRS 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod with GH5380SQR Systematic Head

The Gitzo GK3580QR Series 3 Carbon Fiber Tripod is a complete solution for discriminating users who want exacting placement, premium operational refinement, and minimal weight to carry.  Delivered with an integrated leveling head with panning axis and quick release, it is an ideal choice for use with any modern SLR and a very large 300mm f/2.8 or similar lens, and usually provides sharp images even with 400mm f/2.8 or 600mm f/4 lenses.  The fit and finish are delightful, and what you should expect from the industry's top brand; Gitzo means for your tripod to deliver decades of service, and offers a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects.

The GT3530LS leg set is Gitzo's Series 3 eye-level-height no-column 6x carbon fiber model, made from their superior, ultra-thin carbon fiber strands.  Beyond the weight savings we're all after, carbon fiber has a tendency to 'eat' vibrations rather than transmitting them, much like a wooden tripod would.

The included Systematic head is very unique; a half-sphere with a built-in panning axis, great friction control, and ±28° of motion range.  Directly fitted with a Gitzo quick release, this head is perfect for accepting the tripod collar of a huge telephoto, giving you the closest-possible coupling of the lens' center of gravity and the crown of the tripod legs while still allowing plenty of control of the placement.  Since a lens just moves from horizontal to vertical within the confines of a lens' tripod collar, you don't need the additional range of tilt beyond 28°.