Gitzo Mountaineer Series 1 Carbon Fiber Tripod

Series 1 is the Mountaineer most photographers end up with: 1.33 kg of Carbon eXact tubing rated to carry 20 kg, which covers a full-frame body with a fast zoom or a 200 mm prime. Maximum height is 158 cm on the 3-section, and the legs fold to 62 cm for a backpack side pocket.

G-lock Ultra twist collars close in about a quarter turn and carry a built-in O-ring against dust and water. The rapid centre column is removable and reversible for low work down to 17 cm, and the leg angle selectors set 23, 55 and 83 degrees per leg for uneven ground. The 4-section GT1542 trades a little stiffness for a shorter folded length.