Need help deciding on which Gitzo tripod to buy

Ok I am a Nikon guy (put the pitchforks down) but this forum seems to have more tripod info than some of the others...I am having a terrible time deciding between the following Gitzo tripods (prices after rebate).

GT2531 $420
GT3541LS $510
GT2541 $550

The largest load I'd put on it would be a D700 + 70-200 and 2x TC (infrequently 400mm), about 7 lbs before accounting for a ballhead which could be another 1lb. No desire to get any longer glass. I really want something that I can squeeze into my carryon if necessary (I tried the 1541T but it was too short as I'm 6ft tall) so the 3541LS and 2541 are much better options, but the 2531 is so cheap, I could buy a cheapo benro travel tripod for the times I'm flying (not that frequently - a couple of times a year). The length of the 2531 also seems like it would make it harder to bring with me. Also it would be nice to have one "do it all" tripod since I am just a hobbist and only an occasional tripod user.

If I put the 2531 aside, there's still the question of the 3541LS versus the 2541...the 3541 is slightly cheaper and has a larger capacity, would be more more stable. It should fit in my suitcase but it's definitely bulkier, somewhat heavier. I don't plan to do much hiking so an extra 0.8lb isn't going to kill me.

I've searched all the forums and there's good arguments on all sides...this is a tough decision! And I haven't even started on the ballhead until I settle the legs...

I use the GT2540 Mountaineer, predecessor to the 2541. I can shoot with up to 560mm focal length without any problems. That being said, Gitzo really recommends the 3-series for focal lengths longer than 300mm, IIRC. The Gitzo rating has nothing to do with load, per se. It has more to do with the torque caused by wind or breezes acting on the lens...the longer the lens, the more surface area for wind-induced loads which will lead to vibration. Sounds like the 2541 would be more suited to your needs. I doubt the 2531 would fit into carry-on luggage, but OTOH it sure is hard to pass one up for that price, though.

In case you didn't see it. Some comments here might help.

https://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthre​ad.php?t=993598

Not a Gitzo, but built for your height. Read the review.

One thing to keep in mind is how much of an issue it will be to raise FOUR leg sections to full operational height, vs. only raising THREE...the price of a more compact (length) is more 50% labor to raise and lower (extend and lock two sections vs. extend and lock three). To me, set up and take down is far more important than packing length, because it is done far more often.

Wilt wrote in post #11779207
One thing to keep in mind is how much of an issue it will be to raise FOUR leg sections to full operational height, vs. only raising THREE...the price of a more compact (length) is more 50% labor to raise and lower (extend and lock two sections vs. extend and lock three). To me, set up and take down is far more important than packing length, because it is done far more often.

...and i'm the opposite - won't take the damn thing with me unless its less unwieldy. Went with the 3541LS and love it.

soupcxan wrote in post #11777253
Ok I am a Nikon guy (put the pitchforks down) but this forum seems to have more tripod info than some of the others...I am having a terrible time deciding between the following Gitzo tripods (prices after rebate).

GT2531 $420
GT3541LS $510
GT2541 $550

Where did you find these prices? I want one!

I labored over the same decisions, ie which one to get. Know that in the end there WILL be compromises....you just need to make sure that the one you chooses is optimal (not perfect) for your needs. In the end I ran across a guy in the field who showed me his 3541XLS....THAT was the solution, but only because I recognize that there was NOT a do-all tripod...at least for me. Later I also got a GT1541. Both are wonderful and between them cover anything I"ll currently or foreseeably need for them to do. I love the ability of the 3541XLS to be used normally with ONLY its larger 3 sections extended (I'm 6'1") with the option to use one or more of the 4th sections should I need it as I frequently shoot on uneven terrain, ie mountainous.....its been a godsend! I love the ability to get any height I need (it extends up to an incredulous 6'8"...enough for me to walk UNDER it!) WITHOUT having to resort to an extended center column....or as I refer to such "a monopod atop a tripod".

On the 1541 (vs 1541T), the Traveler's short height was a back breaker for my height. While I loved its compact folded size, other attributes prevailed....and that's the key. Figuring out WHICH features (ie extended height (w/o center column), folded length, weight, stability, leg extensions, price) are properly weighted in your decision making. Know that the Systematics are wider at the base and thus bulkier....but also steadier. If I was limited to only one (hiking is an important criteria, thus weight is) I'd opt probably for the 2531...but only IF I had a decent way to attach it to my pack and because I shoot with a 400mm. These are tripods that should last you a long time.....don't let money unduly influence your decision for years.

Wilt wrote in post #11779207
One thing to keep in mind is how much of an issue it will be to raise FOUR leg sections to full operational height, vs. only raising THREE...the price of a more compact (length) is more 50% labor to raise and lower (extend and lock two sections vs. extend and lock three). To me, set up and take down is far more important than packing length, because it is done far more often.

Its really not as difficult as some would think, especially with the Gitzo leg locks. I have the 4-section model for compactness when hiking. When setting up, I simply wrap my fist around the three leg locks, give them a 1/4-turn twist, then extend the legs and lock. I can set up the tripod for a shot in about 10-15 seconds...

argyle wrote in post #11780989
Its really not as difficult as some would think, especially with the Gitzo leg locks. I have the 4-section model for compactness when hiking. When setting up, I simply wrap my fist around the three leg locks, give them a 1/4-turn twist, then extend the legs and lock. I can set up the tripod for a shot in about 10-15 seconds...

Yes, Gitzos are pretty good for setup and take down. But it still involves TIME to accomplish one more set of leg extensions, pulling out the extension, then twisting the locks close does take a finite amount of time.

I am not of the "I'm (amount) tall, and I shoot eye level to avoid stooping" school of photography...I want the best photographic vantage point for a shot, and many times that is NOT at eye level when standing. Pulling out a single set of leg extesnsions is noticeably faster than pulling out two extensions with my Gitzo 2530.

We replaced our 488RCs over 055proBs with RRS 55s over GT-3531Ss. 1/3 less weight, far better stability, and no cold aluminum to handle in the winter.

luciddreamer wrote in post #11779380
Where did you find these prices? I want one!

They're all available online with the current $80 rebate, PM me if you can't find them

I use 3 Gitzo's but my Gitzo 2531 and it will happily support anything I have got ( largest combo is 600 F4is + 1D4 = Wimberley2) but the 3 or 5 series are better for the big stuff. If you need to pack it up small then look at the 2541, both it and the 2531 are excellent and you won't be dissappointed.
If you can get it cheap get the 2531 - I love mine! The money you save will buy you a nice Carbon Triopo travel tripod ( They are Benro's but half the price).
If you want a ballhead that is SMOOTH light and will support ANYTHING - have a look at the Triopo RS3, my 600 F4is is too light to test it! The RS3 is 250 gram and £30 (UK) but allow another £20 for Arca type QR adapter and plate.