Gitzo GT1555T Series 1 Traveler Carbon Fiber Tripod with Center Ball Head

I own the Gitzo Moutaineer and was looking for something just a bit easier to get around with when I travel and this is exactly what I needed. It's light, sturdy and easy to pack in or outside of my pack. Wish it was a bit taller, but I knew that going in and can't ding it for that.

Its really well made, lightweight and sturdy. Id be hard press to find a flaw, except --- the quick release plate screw is hard to use. The screw notch is too small for the nail or coin, and the buckle is stuck at flush with the plate. Cant get it the buckle out unless I have a screwdriver...

The tripod appears well made and is very sturdy, the locking head being secure and tight. The length is good but at over 2 pounds it is really quite heavy for mountain hiking. I have had a Gitzo GT0531 for years (now discontinued) which is much lighter and better for hiking.

The Glitzo GT1555T Series One Carbon Fiber Tripod is particularly well made as well as small and light. I was able to mount a full frame Nikon SLR with a 400mm lens with no problem. Very stable and beautiful. It is pricey but you get what you paid for with in this case.

I bought this solely for travel purposes. I already have a bigger, heavier tripod I use for work and in the studio. But I needed something for vacation and hiking, when weight and size is a concern.

4 stars for:- lack of level on a tripod base.- leg paddings keeps unscrewing by themselves and almost lost them few times, no matter how tight i keep screwing them on.- Tripod is excellent and compact otherwise.

I do love the head and how light it is but unfortunately some of the legs totally detached from the rest of the tripod while expanding them and on my last use, I lost part of one of the lower legs, it simply fell off from the rest of the tripod and I did not realized it until I got home.

I own a Gitzo 1542t and a few other travelers tripods, and have been a happy user. However, I have always wanted it to be a little smaller and lighter. This 1555t apparently meets my need. Much smaller and lighter.

Before I purchased this tripod I tested a lot of similar sized tripods and the Gitzo was by far the most stable. The leg locks work great making it quick to setup. Now for the negatives.

I love this tripod. . . I like to use a tripod when ever possible, and this makes it much more of an option when traveling. . . very light, well built, and easy to use. Great for travel work. Very versatile. The only issue is the price!!! Good Lord, but you get what you pay for.