Gitzo 1325 Mk2 w/G1318 Rapid Column

[Sgt_Hovanec]

So I have found a used Gitzo that I'm going to buy and I was looking for opinions to anyone who has used this model. What I should consider for maintenance, what should I expect during use, any environments I should avoid with it, and most importantly - is it a good buy at $395 shipped(column unused and legs have basic outside marks from use, it's actually in really good shape - almost 'like new' condition). I had been saving for the GT3530LS and ran into budget problems (bought house) so it was either brand new GT2330, GT2931, GT2931EX, or G2220 so I "think" I just got the deal of my life since it's everything I was looking for less a couple new technologies of the GT3530LS like G-Lock and ALR. I had also planned on getting the Rapid column for the GT3530LS as well. So I got Carbon Fiber instead of Aluminum or Basalt, Series 3 Systematic instead of Series 2, the rapid column comes with it and I get the flat plate use instead of just a rapid column, etc. Do the new accessories work with the 1325 like the newer columns, feet, leveling base etc.? Now I have to deal with the waiting game since I have to pay by paypal and it's on the other side of the country. I wasn't able to find anywhere to read up on this one either..except for FM reviews of the 1327 which I gather is the version with the column at purchase, any help there would be great also.

[bogdan_cp]

I bought a used 1325 a few months ago. To me it seems pretty much hassle free and a joy to use.
I would just check the joints and the leg locks in case dust, sand, grit and stuff like that got inside.

PS: Many professionals swear by it (John Shaw is just one, great example).

[blonde]

i used the 1325 for over a year and it has been fantastic. that tripod was the standard for most wildlife and birds shooters and i have used mine in every enviornment you can imagine (in the desert, in the ocean, on the beach, in mud etc..) and all i had to do was simply take it apart which took 5 minutes and clean it up. honestly, if you can afford it and it is in good condition, get it.

[Sgt_Hovanec]

Well I went ahead and made the purchase. Of course after I did I saw another for a little more less the rapid column so I'm really happy with the price I paid. I have been looking for a good used Gitzo CF Systematic (or any for that matter) for months and haven't seen a single one. Now I've found two in 24 hrs. Both being the type and series I was after. It'll be in tomorrow so I can't wait for the first storm to roll my way!! I sent him a little extra to send it next day air with saturday service since I'm really bad with waiting. Now it's on to the ball head hunt. I have a few I'd like to get but my funds if I'm able to find any will dictate which one of course. Wish me luck!! Thank you for posting BTW. Lately I haven't seen much help when people have been asking for it. Not sure what's up with everyone lately. Anyway, enjoy your weekend!!

[René Damkot]

I have a 1325 with 1318 as well.
Got it in a pretty bad state: One leg lock stuck, one leg loose from the top, center column had a crack in the middle. Was able to repair both, and shorten the center column, and now have a very nice tripod.
I've paired it with a Markins M10, and don't think I'll have to buy another tripod, unless I want something lighter (2 series).

The 1327 is a Mountaineer series 3, the 1325 is a Systematic series 3. The 1325 has a wider base, and should (therefore) be less prone to twist. However according to Nikonians (http://www.nikonians.org/html/resources/jrp_faq/what_tripod/tripods_5.html), the 1327 compensates for this by having a "bridge" (http://www.nikonians.org/html/resources/jrp_faq/what_tripod/G1327_detail.html).
On the 1325, you can also change the column for a leveling base for instance. The 1327 is *only* availiable with a rapid column. (So this review (http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Gitzo-G1327-Carbon-Fiber-Tripod-Review.aspx) is wrong in that aspect). You can replace the rapid column with a Markins base however. The 1325 has three leg angles, so can go lower then teh 1327, which has two.

As far as maintenance goes: Click (http://www.naturescapes.net/082004/gd0804.htm). Not needed too often I'd say, and common sense goes a long way: The ones I got (1348 as well) had one or more legs stuck because the guy didn't clean them after using them in the sea... The 1348 still has 3 leg locks stuck, and I think a Dremel will be the only way to open them....

Here (http://photo.net/learn/nature/g1325) is a review of the 1325

[Sgt_Hovanec]

I know it's a little late but thank you for the review link and the maintenance link will go a long way also.