Will Gitzo 1542t traveler plus Markins Q3 traveler support 1dx?

I have a Gitzo 3-series tripod and Markins M20 ballhead, but the combination isn't suitable for travel and carrying around all day. I'm wondering if the Gitzo 1542t traveler tripod plus the Markins Q3 traveler ballhead will support a 1DX (with RRS L-plate) plus lenses like the 70-200 f2.8 II and smaller. In fact, I'm mostly going to have the 16-35, 24-70, or the 21mm Zeiss mounted on the camera...but I might want to use the 70-200 as well. The specs on the Q3 say it will easily handle this load in terms of weight, although the description says "small DSLRs." I'm less sure about the Gitzo traveler and whether it would support the combined weight of the ballhead, 1DX, and the lenses I have in mind. Appreciate feedback from anyone who has used this Gitzo/Markins combo. Thanks.

Yes, it will support it. I have a benro travel pod that is similar to the gitzo with a markins q3 and it handles my d800 + grip + 70-200mm fine.

There's a big difference between support and rock solid stable support. I've used my 1 series CF gitzo with various ballheads for my 1 series cameras over the years, with 70-200 and 200 f2. If it's a wind free day and you are not shooting long exposures, should be fine. Certainly isn't going to collapse. But get a small breeze or try a long exposure, use live view and magnify it. Then you'll see if it truly supports it.

MDJAK wrote in post #16600620
There's a big difference between support and rock solid stable support. I've used my 1 series CF gitzo with various ballheads for my 1 series cameras over the years, with 70-200 and 200 f2. If it's a wind free day and you are not shooting long exposures, should be fine. Certainly isn't going to collapse. But get a small breeze or try a long exposure, use live view and magnify it. Then you'll see if it truly supports it.

Super solid advice. I was amazed at how much vibration shows up on my ultralight tripod setup on a windy day. It does make a difference!

Bryan

I'm willing to bet any vibration on a windy day would more from the legs of an ultralight tripod than from a Markins Q3T ballhead. My 1542T/Q3T setup is very solid. I've taken 30s+ exposures in some pretty extreme conditions and it has done well. However, you have to know your gear and how to use it. If it's very windy, I collapse all legs, shoot close to the ground and shield the camera and tripod with my back if possible. I use my camera bag as a weight and have never had an issue with vibration. I don't shoot with the 70-200/2.8, but have used the 70-300L which is about 2/3 the weight and bulk.

However, I've shot macros with my full macro rig including flexible arm and full-size flash all on the Markins Q3T ballhead and have never had any issues. That's a solid ballhead. The tripod legs are the weak link here as they are light. Although quite solid and tough for their size, the 1542T is a small tripod. Doesn't matter is it says Gitzo on the side or if the material is carbon fiber - it's a small tripod and that's a limitation. It's great for travel though and that's when I use it most.

Thanks for the great advice. I'll be going to Hawaii (first time) over the summer. I could probably check my 3-series Gitzo with M20 ballhead and bring that, but I'm thinking I'll be wishing I had something lighter and more compact once I'm there. Since I'm not sure how much hiking or even walking around I'll be doing with camera gear, I'm having trouble deciding if it's worth spending the money. I don't do a ton of traveling but will likely be doing a bit more in the years to come.

I've been to Hawaii 3 times, 1984 (4 islands, 15 days), 1994 (2 islands, 12 days) 2005 (2 islands 12 days). Love it love it love it.

Bring what you've got. I pack my 3 series RRS tripod in my suitcase diagonally every time I travel and have never regretted leaving the 1 series Gitzo home alone.

And above I was definitely NOT referring to the Markins head as a source of vibration. I have the M 20 and it's great. Replaced my firmer BH 55 with it. Now I have the Arca Swiss D4 geared head. But no time to use it.
Have a great trip.

Ill agree with the advice in this thread so far too. I have both a Gitzo/Markins traveler setup and a Gitzo 3/Markins Q20 setup and id say take the Gitzo 3/M20 if you can as youll love and want the stability. Unless you are going to be doing a serious amount of hiking and NEED the light weight the heavier setup will be appreciated.