Tripod Question

Can someone tell why these 2 set screws are on the center post? Apparently the two pieces come apart but why?

Ordinarily the end of the aluminum tube for the center column is the rubber cap, seen at the bottom. When mounting the extension, the rubber cap is removed, and the extension (with the male end piece) is inserted into the original center column tube. The extension is really a combination of aluminum outer tube + the male insert. Since the double-ended male insert truly is 'inserted into' both the original tube and the extension tube, you need two locking screws -- which is what you are asking about.

So does my tripod have an extension or do they come this way?

Is what is pictured what you took possession of? if so, it came with a center column extension (which most photographers would avoid the use of, due to instability when extended up!)

It was purchased used the way you see it. Any suggestions?

Suggestions for what? You don't have to leave the extension mounted, you can remove it and mount the rubber cap on the bottom of the main center column piece, to lighten the load.

BTW, I looked at some shots which I took shortly before selling my Bogen 3221 and note that it did come with the extension as standard. I never carried my tripod around that way, though, and cannot recall ever using the extension for the center column.