Gitzo Sport Basalt Performance, Three Section Tripod Legs with Rapid Column, Height 16.9-62", Maximum Load 8.8 lbs.

A good choice for all lightweight digital and 35mm cameras when shooting on location. The G1197 is a natural choice for spotting scopes, binocular support or even light camcorders.

Created by nature from volcanic rock for Gitzo, the G1197 is part of a new Basalt Fiber range designed for demanding professionals who need a lightweight rock solid tripod.

Suited for cameras ranging from compact digital to medium format film, this new tripod range is more durable and better at absorbing vibrations than aluminum models with similar dimensions. The legs are tougher than aluminum, yet 20% lighter.

Basalt fiber tube fabrication capabilities were developed for the space program due to the material's lightweight strength and heat/humidity resistant properties. Gitzo utilized these while creating a new way of producing tripods.

Basalt, a black lightweight rock, is pulverized, then melted at extreme temperatures (2732oF) and drawn into long thin fibers.

The fiber is then combined with other natural materials and drawn through a shaping die to create multi-layer tubes of exceptional performance. The result is a non-rotating tube that meets the demands of today's professional photographers.

The legs are assembled using Gitzo's "H.I.S.," a dual "screw thread and glue" jointing technology that provides greater durability and reliability than alternative methods.

It takes only seconds to open and secure the tripod with the new Anti-Leg-Rotation (ALR) system. Just loosen all twist locks at the same time andpull down the leg before tightening the twist locks.

Employing waterproof bushings with humidity resistant basalt makes it safer to use the tripod near and in water. A fitting touch, since Basalt makes up most ofthe world's ocean floor. As an added plus, basalt tubes won't get hot and cold to the touch like aluminum does.

As usual, Gitzo left no detail overlooked. A redesigned built-in, spring-loaded,retractable accessory hook saves space and eliminates snags while providing a place to hang equipment, such as a camera bag, sand/water bag, on the bottom of the center column.