Need Help: CF Tripod & Head Questions

I will start out by stating, I have already used the search function, and read some interesting post', and clicked on the recommended helpful links. I learned a little bit. BUT, I need more help I have searched the Bogen & Gitzo sites, but they seem more confusing than anything. I have also visited RRS, but, I get more confused there too.

Currently I have a Bogen 3221WN & 3030 3-way Head w/ QR...

Biggest lens I have is a 300/2.8 IS. Just bought a 100-400L, and will be buying a 500/4 IS in the near future. I try to plan all of my investments for long term > 5-10 years..

I enjoy shooting Landscapes, Animals- Big & Small/ Slow & Fast, Portraits, Macro, & Events where I can use a tripod. I also enjoy being outdoors, and I am willing to hike some distance, to get that one shot. What I don't like is taking my 3221, everywhere I go. It is heavy. However, it does support my 300, with no problems, whatsoever.

So, after some initial feedback, I'm throwing my budget out for the time being. I am willing to sell the 3221 & 3030, to help contribute to my budget, if needs be. What is a minimum baseline for legs & head/ mount plates. I'm not stuck on Bogen/ Gitzo. If other brands offer similar quality, but at less expense, then, I'm all for it. If I can figure out the Bogen Education Program, then that might be of some assistance in savings on Bogen/ Gitzo Brands.

What is a good set of Carbon Fiber legs that can handle my gear? I am only looking at 3 or 4 ext. tripods. I am aiming for sturdy & light as possible. Beyond that, I'm getting overwhelmed. I do like to shoot in both Vertical & Horizontal positions, when I cannot use a lens, that does not have a tripod collar.

If I am leaving out any information, that can be of assistance, please let me know.

Thanks,

Expensive option: Gitzo series 3 (3530 or so) with a Markins M20 and RRS L plate for the camera. You can either go with a "mountaineer" or a "Systematic". The first has a fixed center column, the latter comes without center column, but you can add one if you wish, or add a leveling base for instance.

Systematic also has an "extra high" version. (3540XLS IIRC)

Cheaper alternatives to the Gitzo are available (Benro, Amvona and the likes. Some are said to be okay, some not so)

If it were me, I would go for a Gitzo 3531 for the legs, the Markins M20 for the ballhead, and the Really Right Stuff B2 LR II Lever Clamp.