Comments about Gitzo Gitzo Basalt Explorer Tripod Legs with Tilting Center Column (Height 4.5-57", Maximum Load 13 lbs):

I do a great deal of macro work and this tripod is as good as it gets for it. It is also a great tripod when you find yourself in an unusual position, Like on top of a wall that you can only place two of the legs and have to position the other one straight out to rest on a near by light post or tree. This tripod is very light, very strong and very maneuverable. On the down side the threads on both the feet and the column hook could be done better I lost one of the feet and the hook after I had owned it for about two days while walking through the woods. On a positive note Gitzo sent me both these parts free of charge I didn't even pay the shipping, a good reason for me to give them my business. Aside from the minor problems I have had with the threads I think they could stand to make some minor improvements with the aluminum parts but for versatility, strength, ease of use and maneuverability there is no better tripod. Don't be fooled by Gitzo's competitors that state"Better then Gitzo" I bought there answer to the Explorer tripod and it doesn't compare. Their tripod is twice as bulky, literally and is much much more cheaply made. It took me pulling the legs out about three times before the foot on there tripod pulled out and the only way to fix it was to super glue it back in. They will also try to pull you in with all there little extra features that they seem to have but in all truth Gitzo accomplishes the same in a smaller, lighter, stronger and more simple design. When it comes down to it yes there is room for improvement but it's still the best currently available and while the price may seem to be a significant amount more it's cheaper to buy the one you need and be happy with it then it is to buy something you will be disappointed in and then have to buy the one you needed in the first place. This is a tripod that holds true to the phrase you get what you pay for.