Lightning sale

[Kayaker72]

Just saw the lightning sale on a Gitzo GT3840C Sercies 3 Basalt Compact Tripod for $378 (Adorama has it for $478). I am actually a little tempted by this as I have been wanting to upgrade my tripod. Any thoughts? Is this a good all-round tripod including for hiking/travel?

Thanks in advance...Brant

[HDNitehawk]

It is last year’s model.
It is heavier than the one that replaced it.
At 5.22 lbs it might be a little heavier than you want to backpack with.
Other than that it is a Gitzo, and looks to be a fine tripod.
I still prefer the Gitzo I have, because of the way the legs can be manipulated at any position. Even at its lighter weight of about 4 pounds I wish for something lighter when hiking.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...bon_Fiber.html

[HDNitehawk]

In case any one is interested, these are the spec's B&H shows for the Gitzo GT3840C

Load Capacity	33.07 lb (15 kg)
Maximum Height	41.34" (105 cm)
Maximum Height w/o Column Extended	32.68" (83 cm)
Minimum Height	6.69" (17 cm)
Folded Length	16.54" (42 cm)
Weight	5.22 lb (2.37 kg)

Material	Basalt fiber
Leg Stages/Sections	4
Leg Lock Type	G-Lock twist lock
Independent Leg Spread	Three independent positions
Spiked/Retractable Feet	Optional
Center Brace	No

Center Column Type	Rapid
Center Column Sections	1

[neuroanatomist]

No experience with it, but I looked at the specs on Amazon, did a double take, checked B&H and they're the same - maximum height w/o center column: 32.68", maximum height w/ center column: 41.34". They should sell it as a bundle with some good knee pads. At 5.22 lbs it's not exactly light, and at less than 3' of usable height, I'm not sure how useful it would be.

I'd pass...

[HDNitehawk]

I was editing as Neuro posted that, I had just noticed it is a little short fellow.

[andnowimbroke]

It's at least the second time that one had been on the lightning deal. I'd still buy mine if you were looking

[Kayaker72]

Thanks John and Rick....Looking at it more, I agree...I'll pass.

Broke...I'll go back and look at your email....it isn't that I am looking...it is more that a new tripod is on my list, somewhere in the top 5-6. But, I honestly don't use the my current tripod much. I bought a monopod in March and I have yet to mount my camera on it. I use the gorillapod a lot, mostly due to packability.