How much abuse do you subject your tripod to?

[jsinon]

I just received my Gitzo GT2541, and I'm curious as to what kind of punishment you put your tripods through to get the shot. I'm mostly out in the woods and swamps and didn't really get too concerned about my $140 ProMaster tripod, although I didn't beat it either, but a $600 set of legs is a whole different story. I have a few ideas for photos that will involve setting up in a foot or two of water( I'm not sure how mucky the bottom will be). And as a second part of this, what general maintenance do you recommend/perform, other than wiping it down with a damp cloth.

[rklepper]

It is a tool to get better shots. In my opinion it goes against why you bought it if you baby it. I have a Feisol and it puts up with whatever I throw at it. I do perform routine maintenance on it though. The Gitzo should hold up at least as well.

[jsinon]

I agree, but sticking those beautiful CF legs in the mud for the first time is going to hurt.