Looking for advice: Manfrotto 055 vs. Gitzo Explorer

[peter graham]

In a quest for the ideal compromise between sturdiness, weight, use, and price I've narrowed down my choices between the Manfrotto 055MF4, and the Gitzo Explorer (2228 or 2220). I really like the low angles plus the flexibility they offer.

One question I have is how rigid the centre post would be at different angles, at the maximum it would have to support a 100-400 along with extension tubes. I have seen other posts using the Explorer but not using the huge push/pull that can make the 100-400 tricky to balance. I would love the versatility but it wouldn't do me much purpose if it can't offer enough support.

There are a couple of subtle but perhaps key differences between the 055MF4 and Explorer. The first is how the centre post is constructed, the Gitzo is off centre while the Manfrotto offers a low angle adapter. I have no idea how this differs in actual use though.

The second is that the legs on the Manfrotto lock into four different angles while the Gitzo can have the legs adjusted to any angle. I have read one reviewer who found trying to get the legs on the Gitzo to be at equal angles to be annoying. Does the Gitzo offer more versatility or just add an annoying feature?

I might be able to get a deal on a 2228 in the next few days, so it may be a chance to improve greatly from my cheapo Manfrotto which is now inadequate. Any advice especially from first hand experience will be appreciated.

[StealthLude]

I havent tried too many tripods, but the day i picked up the Bogen 3021 Pro in the store i was in love with it...

U might want to check out all the other tripod posts... after all the great review from this forum on the 3021, i was pretty much sold on it and got it with a ball head...

[peter graham]

I have read many of the posts (and there are plenty) so this is basically a final decision between the Manfrotto and Gitzo. The camera shops in the city might have them in stock but some user opinions on either or both would help me out.

More exhuastive internet search has lead me to the RRS BH-40 as my standing choice for a ballhead. I don't think I can lose with these choices but this is pretty much a one shot deal since I doubt I would buy anything after this setup. Just looking for confirmation on what I think would make for a great setup.

[mbze430]

I own the 055MF4. I have looked in to the Gitzo equivelent, and money is certainly not a problem for me. But you are right... the angled legs DOES become annoyance. One might think you have more versitility, but it comes back and stabb you in the back when you are in a hurry. The 055MF4 deos have angled legs, but it is preset with a sitting at each angle.

I like the center column also on my 055MF4 its center, and it "feels" more stable. When you setup your tripod near an edge of a cliff, sometimes when using a off-center column might give you the impression it might fall off. However the o55MF4 does become a little more troublesome to get a horizontal column

[Mike K]

I
Does the Gitzo offer more versatility or just add an annoying feature?


I have an aluminum Explorer and a CF Manfrotto. Yes the Gitzo is quite felxible and gets much much lower. If this is a priority then this is your 'pod. However it is more fiddly and slower to use. Adjusting the angle of each leg each time, as opposed to just opening them is a substantial difference. Also there is the personal choice if you prefer the Gitzo twist locks to the Manfrotto lever locks.
Mike K

[primoz]

I have Manfrotto 055Pro and I like it. It's nice tripod, but from that what I saw of Gitzo Explorer (I never used it myself so I can easily be wrong) it looks better for me. I don't know how is in real life, but having option to rotate center post is nice thing... at least I think it's good idea and something that I miss with Manfrotto. But those days price difference between Manfrotto and Gitzo was way too big to go with Gitzo. At least for so much of use as I have with tripod.

[J Rabin]

Peter. I am a macro shooter, own Gitzo and Giottos, and would answer this way:
1. If you are photographer who "sometimes" takes macro or low angle shots, but really needs a quick, great, solid base for heavier lenses (ie, 100-400L), the get the 055. If you shoot stitched panoramas, get the Manfrotto.
2. If you are a macro or nature photographer, who needs to get a macro or wide angle lens into any conceiveable contorted or low angle on a regular basis, then get the Gitzo. There is no substitute for it or the Giottos for this kind of specialist work.
3. Both have the newer antitwist legs.
4. The head you mate them with is equally as important as the legs for having a tripod that works so well you actually want to carry and use it. For example, for odd angled shots, the strength of the panning brake lock on the head determines whether you can even use the Gitzo to its full advantage. I can tell you experience that the otherwise wonderful AcraTech Ultimate head CAN NOT hold the weight of a long heavy lens with tubes at odd angles. The alloy structure actually flexes. You will need a Kirk, RRS, or Markins head, all costing more than the tripod, but important.
5. Both can get low angle, but with Gitzo's design, when you are 5" off the ground, you HAVE to have the arm in lateral position. With the Giottos, and I believe the Manfrotto, you can take the platform off the center post and remount it right on the base.
The decision comes down to what you are trying to do, and only you know that.
Jack

[DavidEB]

Peter, I like the way the gitzo legs can be set at any angle. If all your shots are on an even and level floor, then preset leg angles might make sense, but anywhere else the gitzo system is very quick to level. Extend the legs, flip open the leg angle locks, spread the tripod to approximately where you want it. Then adjust the leg angles while watching the leveling bubble, and lock when level.

I don't think I would extend the lateral arm out over the edge of a cliff.

[PacAce]

In a quest for the ideal compromise between sturdiness, weight, use, and price I've narrowed down my choices between the Manfrotto 055MF4, and the Gitzo Explorer (2228 or 2220). I really like the low angles plus the flexibility they offer.

One question I have is how rigid the centre post would be at different angles, at the maximum it would have to support a 100-400 along with extension tubes. I have seen other posts using the Explorer but not using the huge push/pull that can make the 100-400 tricky to balance. I would love the versatility but it wouldn't do me much purpose if it can't offer enough support.

There are a couple of subtle but perhaps key differences between the 055MF4 and Explorer. The first is how the centre post is constructed, the Gitzo is off centre while the Manfrotto offers a low angle adapter. I have no idea how this differs in actual use though.

The second is that the legs on the Manfrotto lock into four different angles while the Gitzo can have the legs adjusted to any angle. I have read one reviewer who found trying to get the legs on the Gitzo to be at equal angles to be annoying. Does the Gitzo offer more versatility or just add an annoying feature?

I might be able to get a deal on a 2228 in the next few days, so it may be a chance to improve greatly from my cheapo Manfrotto which is now inadequate. Any advice especially from first hand experience will be appreciated.
If the tripod minimum length is not a factor, I would recommend the 055MF3 which has three leg segments over the 055MF4 which has four. The more leg segments the tripod has, the less rigit they are with the legs fully extended.

[peter graham]

All very excellent repsonses, interesting to hear everyones take on it. I haven't made a decision yet, but this will certainly give me a clear indicator of what to expect. I'll check in with the camera shops and have a close look for myself knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each. Thanks!