Gitzo Gimbal Fluid Head?

I’m getting ready to pull the trigger on a gimbal. The Wimberly WH200 is the top runner as everything seems to be compared to it. However, one gimbal I have not been able to find much non-biased information on is the Gitzo Gimbal Fluid Head (GHFG1).

Does anyone have some experience with that head that could provide some pros / cons?

Thanks!

I've never seen on in person. Sorry I can't contribute there.

Gitzo came to this party so late, it's amazing considering that they are considered the top name in support. It's weight is down from the Wimberley which is a plus,. if it's as solid and smooth, it may be a very nice new option.

Can you tell us what you expect to be mounting?

I’ll be using it for the Canon 500mm f/4L II. Due to the lack of information I’m leaning towards the Wimberley, but it’s tough not to consider the Gitzo reputation as well.

Thanks-

I haven't tried the Gitzo either but there is some useful info here:

https://www.talkphotog​raphy.co.uk …ures.671447/#po​st-8066400

Interesting read. Thank you. Sounds like it has potential, but some QC problems in manufacturing. I found a couple other similar experiences with cold weather troubles.

I think I’ll go with the Wimberley, but the Gitzo May be one to keep an eye on!

I have the Wimberley and it is an excellent piece of kit - but it is pricey and not light!

It is ideal for a 600 F4 or my 800 F5.6, but may be overkill for other lenses - still you can never have too much stability.

I also have the Wimberley cant fault it. Have a lot of trust in it doing its job and not having to worry about it. Solid piece off kit.

How is the Wimberley for carry and setup in the field? I’m not planning on huge hikes with it, but there will be some packing required.

I use my Wimberley on a Gitzo Systematic so I leave the "Top Plate" permanently attached - quicker to set up and no chance of cross threading. It is also a good idea to mark your vertical and horizontal settings on the head and foot of the camera. This allows instant balancing without fiddling about while the kingfisher flies off! Thin strips of insulating tape are great for this as they will not mark your gear.

As to carrying. For short distances I simply lock the pan and tilt knobs and sling the whole setup over my shoulder. Naturally with the 800mm this starts to dig into my shoulder before long so I put everything back into/on my backpack if I am going to be walking a worthwhile distance.

Two of my forum friends have it. So far they are happy with them. I was wondering how it will be in heavy winter as it's fluid one, (not sure if the place you live is snow), but after putting it in the freezer the performance was still very good.
http://www.fotoprzyrod​a.pl …g-1-recenzja/#entry379356

rdricks wrote in post #18756453
How is the Wimberley for carry and setup in the field? I’m not planning on huge hikes with it, but there will be some packing required.

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I regularly walk around with it all day in the woods or on the slopes, and it isn't a problem. . I use it with my Gitzo tripod and Sigma 300-800mm lens.

And I am not big, nor strong, and most people would not even consider me to be "fit" or "in shape". . Heck, I have a busted back and a torn rotator cuff and chronically painful tendonitis in my left forearm .... and I'm on the wrong side of 50.

Carrying a tripod and a Wimberley and a Canon 500mm v2 all day shouldn't be a problem for anyone, unless they are struggling with a severe disability or an acute injury or something.

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rdricks wrote in post #18756453
How is the Wimberley for . . . setup in the field?

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There really isn't anything to set up in the field. . I mean, most people mount the Wimberley onto their tripod and leave it there indefinitely. . Hence, when you get to your destination, you should already have the Wimberley mounted onto your tripod, and your lens mounted onto your camera body. . So you just pick up the lens/camera, slide the lens foot into the Wimberley v-groove, and turn the clamp adjustment. . Takes about 4 seconds.


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Thanks for all the input. The Wimberley gimbal has arrived and I am impressed. I'm looking forward to getting some field time in.