Wrong Gitzo?

[Wayne Tabor]

I just (today) purchased and recieved a Gitzo 3541 LS carbon fiber tripod to use with my Canon 500 f4. It seems very sturdy, but a friend of mine said I should have gotten the three section tripod, rather than the 4-section. Is there that much difference? They both cost the same. It will cost me shipping both ways, and a restocking fee to change. Welcome all opinions.

[James Shadle]

Wayne,
Do you have IS on your lens?

If the tripod is rated for the camera and lens weight, with IS it should be fine.

James

[Wayne Tabor]

Yes, the lens is IS and I will be using it on a Kirk BH1 ballhead with a Wemerly sidekick.

[James Shadle]

Wayne,
The 3541 is rated at 39.7 lbs

It should be perfect!

James

PS Welcome to BPN!

[Wayne Tabor]

Thanks for your help and encouragement. I have decided to go only first class on my equipment this time around. I will probably keep the tripod, unless someone else has had problems with too much flexin the 4 sections vs. 3 sections.

[Judd Patterson]

If you are concerned about stability, then only extend 3 of the legs...or only partially extend that 4th leg. That should certainly help.