Gitzo Explorer

[captlen]

I am considering purchasing a Gitzo G-2220 Explorer Aluminium tripod from B&H The price is 249.95 they have the same one with basalt legs for 439.95. My question is two fold.
1. has anyone had experience with this tripod and if so how do you like it.
2. is the basalt legged one worth the extra money. I will not be back packing with it.

[JDArt]

All of the Gitzos are nice. The lighter they are, the more expensive they run. I'd say get the aluminum one.

[ohenry]

I had the G-2220 and sold it. The legs were cumbersome to manipulate and the lock mechanism was VERY loud when adjusting. It was considerably heavier than my Gitzo 1325. It was unique in its ability to put the camera wherever you wanted to put it -- very flexible in that respect. Personally, I would go for the lighter weight version (basalt or graphite). I later found a need for that type of tripod again and purchased a Bogen Magfiber 055 (I think that's the model number). It's a nice alternative to Gitzo and considerably lighter than the 2220.

[cyclohexane]

People tell me that basalt tripods suck; they don't do a better job of damping motion, and the weight savings isn't worth the extra price. You want aluminum or carbon fiber.

[ohenry]

carbon fiber! that's the word that was stuck when I wrote graphite and knew it didn't sound right!

[captlen]

ohenry,

Do you consider the Bogen 055 to be much better than the gitzo 2220? The bogan is about $70.00 more would you consider it at least &0 better?? I am looking for an all purpose flexable tripod. Up untill now I have had cheap ones and know I have to invest in better quality but do have to stay under about $350.00. I have heard good things about both bogen and gitzo.

thanks for all the input

[ohenry]

No, I think the Gitzo is better made. But I like the mag-fiber Bogen better than the aluminum Gitzo for weight purposes. I didn't feel like spending more for the CF Gitzo (Basalt wasn't available at the time I got the Bogen). If I had it to do over again, I'd go with the Explorer. I think the Explorer is sturdier when using the center column than the Bogen. The Gitzo is also a bit easier to change from vertical to horizontal. My only complaint about the Explorer was the way the leg mechanism worked. I actually sold it on a whim...someone was looking for one and mine wasn't getting that much use...yada yada yada...you know the drill.

The Bogen is my 2nd tripod and the one that I reserve for those times when I need to get in awkward positions as it does that so much better than my Gitzo 1325 (i.e. macros and shooting downward).

[captlen]

I ordered the 2220 aluminum today. Thanks to all for the input. There comes a time that youjust have to make a decision and go with it. since I am not in a place where I can actually see and feel the options it does make it a bit more difficult. I should have it within the week and will updaate you on how I like it.

Again thanks for the input.

[Carol Chan]

Originally Posted by captlen

I ordered the 2220 aluminum today. Thanks to all for the input. There comes a time that youjust have to make a decision and go with it. since I am not in a place where I can actually see and feel the options it does make it a bit more difficult. I should have it within the week and will updaate you on how I like it.

Again thanks for the input.

How do you like it?

[captlen]

I used it today for the first time. I had a studio shoot at a local office complex and found it work fine. it is definitely a firm and stable platform to shoot from. this is the first "real" tripod (other than cheap 50-60 dollar models) and it does make a difference. It is, as ohenry alluded to, a bit cumberson to use but once set up it is like a rock. I am sure that for studio work there are less complicated tripods. I have not had the need or opportunity to use this out in the field yet which I think is where it will really shine.

[ohenry]

Gitzo does make one fine tripod, that's for sure! I love my Gitzo 1325! Keep us appraised of your thoughts on your new pod!