Since Gitzo increased the weight ratings of their carbon fiber tripods with the new 6X Series, I wanted to find out if a 2-Series 6X model could do the same job my old Gitzo G1327 did for me. Of the available models, I selected the Gitzo GT2530 6x Carbon Fiber Tripod (though gave serious thought to the leveling column model). The Gitzo GT2530 6x Carbon Fiber Tripod benefits from the new features discussed in the Gitzo GT3530LSV Tripod review including Anti-Rotation Leg (ALR) System, G-Lock design, 1.2mm Gitzo 6X carbon fiber tube, removable leg tips … I won’t bore you with the repeated description of these benefits – the GT2530’s functionality is very similar. Like all Gitzo carbon fiber tripods, construction and feature qualities are top of the line. Weighing only 3.1 lb (1.4 kg), the GT2530 measures 25.6″ (65 cm) folded, a nice 54.3″ (138 cm) extended w/o the rapid column and a high 63.4″ (161 cm) with the rapid column fully extended. The GT2530 is rated to hold 26.4 lbs (12 kg). Actually, I can hang from the fully extended GT2530 – I weigh 170 lbs (77 kg). This is a very solid tripod – I’m impressed. My personal conclusion is this: If the largest lens you need to tripod mount is the size of a Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 lens, the Gitzo GT2530 6x Carbon Fiber Tripod is a great choice. For anything at or beyond the size of Canon 300mm f/2.8 lens, I strongly suggest moving up to at least the Gitzo GT3530LSV or the Gitzo GT3530S – or possibly the GT3530 rapid column version. I used lenses as heavy as the Canon 600mm f/4 IS lens on the GT2530, but vibrations are quite noticeable unless good long lens technique and IS are used. The GT2530 will work in this situation, but the 3-Series is a better option. READ FULL REVIEW AT DigitalPicture.com
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Get information and user reviews for this tripod from Amazon: Gitzo GT2530 6X Carbon Fiber 2 Series 3 Section G-Lock Mountaineer Tripod