gitzo tripod bags, series 2 in series 1 bag?

At The Digital Picture the reviewer says:

"I recommend using Gitzo's dimensions to find the proper size case (models GE10P through GE15P) - not their recommended tripod fit."

The only problem is that Gitzo only gives exterior dimensions, not interior.

My Gitzo 2530 with Acratech Ultimate ballhead measures 28.75". The bag Gitzo recommends for series two tripods is the GE12P which measures 33.5" on the exterior. The Gitzo GE11P, which they say is for series 1 tripods, measures 30.3" on the exterior.

If the padding on each end is less than 3/4" my 2530 should fit in the series 1 bag and it would be a slightly smaller package than the series 2 bag. Does anyone out there have the Gitzo bag made for series 1, the GE11P? Would a 28.75" tripod/ballhead fit?

I wouldn't waste your money on the Gitzo bags. Take a look at the Thinktank Bazooka Tripod cases (scroll third of way down page).I have the Humongous Bazooka for my 5540 and the padding, build, ease of use, and price is outstanding....Jeff

Jeff, I've seen those mentioned in the forums but 6" diameter is too big. The reason I like the gitzo bags is they're padded but thin, 4" diameter. But thanks for taking the time to respond.

I needed the bigger diameter for mine, its 6.75". They do make a smaller one, which has a 5" diamter. Wish I could help more on the Gitzo bag end of it...Sorry, Jeff

I have a 2530 with a Markins Q3. When I use a case, my choice is the TT Bazooka. It fits great. I don't think it is too big.

Kent Clark wrote in post #5704473
Jeff, I've seen those mentioned in the forums but 6" diameter is too big. The reason I like the gitzo bags is they're padded but thin, 4" diameter. But thanks for taking the time to respond.

You may want to consider this...

http://cgi.ebay.com …Q_trksidZp1713.​m153.l1262

It is thinly padded. My 2541L w/ M-10 is 28.25" Add'l 0.5" will be a little snug, but easily fit.

I mainly use it only for protective storage.

95% of the time just use an Optech strap.....the one with the swivel snap on one end. I just put a small split ring up by the head using black cable tie. Works for me.

John, thanks for the link. Ideally I'd like to have several bags in front of me to compare in person. My local camera shops both carry the bogen manfrotto bags and some tamrac bags, everything else is special order.

One thing I noticed in your reply. You have a 2541 and it's only 1/2" longer than my 2530? Whenever people discuss 3 section vs 4 section tripods here the 4 section crowd says that it's just as stable and folds up smaller for carryon, backpacking, etc. One half inch isn't that much smaller, assuming the two ball heads are about the same height.

Kent Clark wrote in post #5704835
John, thanks for the link. Ideally I'd like to have several bags in front of me to compare in person. My local camera shops both carry the bogen manfrotto bags and some tamrac bags, everything else is special order.

One thing I noticed in your reply. You have a 2541 and it's only 1/2" longer than my 2530? Whenever people discuss 3 section vs 4 section tripods here the 4 section crowd says that it's just as stable and folds up smaller for carryon, backpacking, etc. One half inch isn't that much smaller, assuming the two ball heads are about the same height.

2541L

Maximum Height - 68.9" (175 cm)
Maximum Height w/o Column Extended - 59.4" (151 cm)
Folded Length - 24" (61 cm)
http://www.bhphotovide​o.com …ountaineer_6X_C​arbon.html

Edit: Oh....and I have the Gitzo (short) spikes on it, which adds a little bit.

I bought the Gitzo bag suggested for the 2000 series tripod. Very nice. The zippers are large and heavy duty, the shoulder strap connectors are metal, not plastic. They include a rainfly strip on the inside of the zipper.

I probably could have fit my 2530 and Acratech Ultimate in the 1000 series bag but this bag is slim, well made, easy to carry. No regrets, I'll never have to think about another tripod case, this one should last as long as I do.