Tripod With Center Column vs Without Center Column

[Pao Dolina]

Other than less oscillation and less weight what are the other advantages of going with a tripod without a center column? I'm looking at a Gitzo GT3531S, GT3541 or GT3541LS.

Also have you guys encountered carbon fiber failure with Gitzo? A friend mentioned (other brand) carbon fiber tripods tend to shatter.

[edgar-junior]

Good morning Pao!!!

Few guys here on P.R. have gitzo and never have problem

i used my GT3541LS without a center column and work's great.

for big lenses gitzo is the one you need ......my two cent's ;)

[Pao Dolina]

Same here in the P.I. top tier brand here is Manfrotto and the rest are Benro and Giottos?

Do you fully extend the tripod leg? I'm trying to figure out whether to something taller than what I need.

[Howard Burkert]

I use a Gitzo tripod, I bought the adaptor for using a center column. The only reason for the center column is for a fast change of heads. I have 3 center post columns, one has my Wimberly head, the second has a large ball head and the third has a small ball head. This makes for fast head changes. Simply loosen the lock, and pull out the column and slip another in. I never raise the center column when shooting.
Best,
Howard.

[James Shadle]

If you use a center column, you limit your ability to get as low as possible with your tripod.

[Pedro Serralheiro]

Never used one. Never missed one. Never had a failure on my Gitzos.

To change heads quickly I have made an adpater to install a ballhead on my gimball.

[Mike Tracy]

I have found a center column useful when doing macro but would not consider one on my dedicated bird / wildlife tripod.

[Howard Burkert]

James, You are right about not being able to get low with a center column, I failed to mention all my columns are cut off and are really just stubs with a plug in the bottom. Also as a added security feature, the adaptor and tripod base plate are secured with 2 roll pins. I drilled the 2 holes through both and drove the roll pins in with a brass punch. When carrying your camera with a long lens you have no worry about it slipping out. Even if you loosen the nut that clamps the adaptor plate it will not come off. In my opinion this should be done even without the center column plate. Without the roll pins my plate worked it's way out nearly half way, twice.
Best,
Howard.