Gitzo GT2541EX Series 2 Carbon 6x 4 Section G-Lock Explorer Tripod - Replaces GT2540EX - Black

I purchased this tripod after reading the other two reviews here and seeing this tripod at a local camera shop. I did lots of research before choosing the 2541EX, but ultimately decided to purchase this tripod for the following reasons:1. The build quality of the tripod is fantastic (which you would expect for a Gitzo)2. The flexibility that the center column provides3. It is quite light, but very sturdy (love that carbon fiber!)4. It compacts down to just over 20 inches-- it will fit inside my carry-on.I have a Really Right Stuff BH-55 ball head paired with this tripod, and I doubt that there is ANY shooting situation that this tripod combined with that head cannot handle. My research told me that there might be a better match for my RRS head (one that can support more weight), but this tripod was listed as suitable, and I have found it to be rock solid with all my lenses (I have used it with the Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 IS and the Canon 100-400mm and had no issues with stability or performance).Operating this tripod quickly becomes second-nature. The knobs are well designed and big enough for virtually any size hand. The center column rotation uses a "gear"-like mechanism, so it locks in place very securely. That said, the teeth of the gear do slightly limit the number of positions in which the center column can be set (although this can be easily compensated for by changing the position of the legs).Speaking of the legs, I love the manner in which the legs spread out, although those who are used to having predefined "stops" might find the 2541EX takes a bit to get used to. That is, you are not likely to open each leg the same degree, so getting the tripod level is a bit more challenging. However, when combined with a ball head, this really is a non-issue. The flexibility that is provided by the ability to open each leg to any degree far outweighs the challenge to get it level by using predefined stops. After all, unless you are shooting on completely level ground, those predefined stops become very inflexible.Initially I was worried a bit about the G-Lock feature of this tripod, as I have another tripod that uses a similar approach to leg extension which sometimes gets tightened to the point that I need a wrench to loosen it again. However, after using this tripod, I no longer have those worries. The G-Lock system works extremely well.Another feature that I appreciate is the replaceable rubber feet of the tripod. While I haven't had to do that yet, it is comforting to know that if one gets damaged or I need to use spikes instead, the 2541EX can accommodate replacement with ease.All of this quality, flexibility, and performance definitely come at a cost, however. The current going rate for the 2541EX seems to be $675, which is daunting to say the least. However, a solid tripod is invaluable for achieving tack sharp photos. After working with this tripod, I believe that it will satisfy me for the rest of my life, so given that, the high cost isn't so bad. That said, I did only give 4 stars for price vs. quality because of the hefty price tag. Still, I have absolutely no regrets about purchasing this tripod.

I recently purchased this tripod to replace my Bogen 3021 tripod I have been using for the past 13 years. The Bogen served me well, however was starting to feel heavy and wasn't quite as flexible as I wanted. While searching for a new tripod I found a Bogen tripod similar in flexibility to the Gitzo, however it didn't have the same flexibility as the Gitzo (the legs had stop points when being spread rather than being continuously variable and the same was true of the center column which only had two positions).My first impressions of this tripod:1) Lightness - this was a bit of a concern initially, but I found that the carbon fiber does seem to dampen quite quickly and was able to support my camera and lenses in a variety of positions (some quite awkward to test out the flexibility).2) Flexibility - between the variability of the legs (height and angle) and the rotation of the center column I was able to put this tripod in a variety of positions, which still felt very stable with my equipment.3) Construction - the tripod feels very solid. I like the rubber grips on the legs for loosening the segments and the big levers for changing the leg angle will be great for when working with gloves.I was uncertain about spending this amount on a tripod, however I am very satisfied with my purchase. I am currently using the tripod with an Arca Swiss Z1 Dual Pan head, Canon 20D and a variety of lenses from 10-22mm up to the 100-400 and find in all cases that the tripod handles smoothly.

It can handle the higher weight of a D800E Nikon and f/2,8 lenses. I can adjust the tripod to be completely flat. The camera is essentially 4-5 inches off the ground. Great for macro work. I am somewhat concerned about stability in windy situations. It does have a hook to hang a sandbag on to increase stability. I do trust this tripod to support my camera and lenses. I am using a Gitzo GH3750QR ball head which works well with this tripod. The tripod is light, but unfortunately, the ball head is not. Overall, I'm very pleased with this tripod.

I have progressively purchased better and better tripods over the past 10 years and this particular unit is the most adept at meeting my needs as a landscape photographer.It has the functionality and strength to perform all of the tasks I require. It is lightweight but not as light as my Manfrotto 3 section unit, but is not on par with the strength of this tripod.The only drawback to this unit that I have found so far is the difficulty in getting the leg releases to disengage without breaking my fingers.

Killer tripod. If you are the kind of person who thinks all tripods are the same, you might not need this (you're probably not doing photography that requires the extreme sturdiness of this tripod). I bought this because I do a lot of long exposures for macro photography and situations where I don't have a lot of light.The only nitpick I have for it is that I can't easily remove the center column (I'm pretty sure it can be removed/changed, but it looks like you have to use a hex key).I bought a Manfrotto 410 geared head to go with it, and I have macro focusing rails from ebay. That gives me 7 knobs for adjusting the camera position (not including the legs of the tripod) which takes some getting used to, but gives a huge amount of control.

A thing of beauty. This has been my fantasy tripod since forever. It fits my style and personality, versitile and functional. Solid, solid. Even though this is a 4 seg leg contruct there is not hint of shakes, and the off-set tilting "center" post is just dreamy.

The best tripod for me. Lite, compact, go anywhere. Rugged construction. Probably last a lifetime.

expensive but well built and so very light! I love it.

Have been a photographer all my life. I splurged on this tripod and RRS ball head. Takes a bit of time to get used to but very study and light tripod. Easy to fold and store. Flexible setup.