So the Prime Day sale was too good to pass up, and I think I have just upgraded my series 4 tripod with a semi series 4 Leofoto.
First, let me explain why I call it "Semi series 4"
The size lines from Gitzo had 5 series sizes, 1-5, (except that as far as I know, there has never been a series 1 "systematic.")
Series number dictate the largest diameter of the leg tube and center column. Each size up gets you a larger diameter center column and upper most leg tube. this sizing system has been adopted by, well pretty much every serious tripod manufacture I have come across.
Additionally where "systematic" come in with their removable top plates, the series size also dictated the size of the platform and center base plate opening. Here there were two sizes, one with a 70mm opening for the top plate, and one with a 85mm opening.
Originally Gitzo Series 2 and 3 Systematics used the 70mm opening, and the Series 4 and 5 shared the 85mm opening and matching baseplate.
Some accessories, like the leveling base, were made to fit BOTh openings, with a stepped arrangement, allowing you to swap this significant investment from a series 5 to a series 2. The same was not true of either standard flat base plates, or center columns, these were specific to the 70 or 85mm opening.
To date, every Series 4 systematic tripod I have ever owned or used from any manufacture has used the old style 85mm Series 4/5 plates.
Oddly, a few years ago when Gitzo did one of their "revamp the entire line" upgrades, Gitzo made the latest Series 4 use the smaller 70mm platforms and plates previously only associated with the smaller Series 2 and 3.
Well it seems Leofoto has followed suit, and this LN-364c is equipped with Series 4 legs, but the top platform is, like a modern Gitzo, equipped with only a series 3 70mm opening.
This tripod is slated to replace my current CT404 Induro Series 4 tripod, so I will be comparing these two. Overall impression is really good,. Very reminiscent of when I first invested in the bargain priced Induros (vs Gitzo pricing) seemingly offering approx the same "bang" for mush less buck. I'd be happy with what I got here even at regular price.
Some points of comparison;
- The LeoFoto claims 10X carbon fiber vs. the Induro's 8X.
- The LN is approx 2" taller and is said to carry about 10 pounds more weight. This makes this the tallest tripod I won now (without center column) , with the highest weight capacity
- Like a modern Gitzo, the Leofoto incorporates and additional safety into the plate system. My older Indoro does not have this safety latch.
- The weight difference is minimal, a few ounces I can not discern.
- I still like the Induro twist latches better. (I like them better than my Gitzo as well)
- Gitzo's does not come with a bag. The Leofoto comes with a bag so small it will not fit the same tripod it came with once ANY head is installed 
The Induro CT404 came with a spacious bag with extra pockets and large enough for a full Wimberley Gimbal to be installed, with added interior velcro straps to strap it down. All my best tripod bags came included with Induro Tripods. Extra padding, extra pouches, and large enough for any head.
I can recommend this tripod based on first impressions. Time will tell if it can hold up to the kind of reasonable use i ask of my Gitzo and Induro tripods. I have high hopes based on my current impressions.
