Gitzo GS5313GS Geared Center Column for Series 5 Systematic Tripods

I added this center column to my Gitzo series 5 tripod for added vertical camera adjustment, my only regret is not buying it with the tripod. I cheeped out and didn't buy it originally but ended up purchasing it later anyway. This geared column is as finely crafted as is the tripod, checks all boxes for fit, finish, and function. Solid, stable, smooth operation, precise. Well done, Gitzo!

this is the best tripod i have ever had or used in 45 years 25 of which i worked as a paid pro photographer

I will split this review into two pieces, the instructions then the column. The bad news first, you have to endure the horrible instructions before you can enjoy the column/tripod. About the only thing worse than the instructions are the worthless "instruction" videos online. To date 4/2022 these are basically unboxing vids. After reading a prior review about the poor instructions I thought I'll circumvent this via YouTube. Don't bother not happening. So first off finding the instructions: they are related to the original tripod and not the column itself. Go online to get to instructions for the tripod you own to find how to "supposedly" attach the accessory column. If you are super detail minded the diagrams work against you. They are poor at best, misleading at worst. Don't waste your time trying to get your column to look like the illustration eg. the spacing around the baseplate. Can't do it. The tripod circular hole for the baseplate has two "notches" one small and a larger one on the opposite side. You have to start the process by folding the handle against the column to minimize its protrusion. Insert the column by aligning the small feature on the baseplate on the column to go through the small notch on the tripod. This took me all of two minutes to get. Now the fun began. Because the diagram isn't clear and verbiage non existent I missed this next part, for the next hour. The column has to be rotated so the gearbox is under the smaller notch, adjacent to the tripod's tightening screw that you loosened to remove the original baseplate. I certainly hope this helps. Oh yeah I've only used the tripod once since getting the geared column. It works as expected and no problem with rigidity. My process in using tripods is to always minimize the use of the center column. Don't want to essentially make my tripod into a Monopod. Gross adjustment via legs and fine tune with the center column. I shoot architecture and use this with a 5563GS.

works well, well made, comes in handy when working with bigger gear on the tripod, I always use the center column, definitely sturdy enough, the crank comes in handy

Typically Gitzo, this is a sturdy add-on. I bought this to work with the right angle bracket to easily get accurate horizontal camera movement. It is a bit awkward to attach to the Series 5 tripod.

I have the gitzo GT5543XLS witch has the new top triangle design that has literally millimeters of clearance to allow installing/removal of the column. It took over 20 minutes to figure out how to mount it using trial be error with no instructions. Now it takes 5 minutes, where it takes 30 sec for my 3 series older gitzo tripod/g-column. I assume it is easier to mount on older series 5 tripods. Also it does not have a hanging hook for the bottom of the column, so I had to pull it off the removable top plate. I love the quality machining and precise vertical control of the crank/column movement. Great for product photos, large tele lenses and spotting scopes. It is super solid when locked down. I would not want to be with out it!

This product replaces the standard quick-set center column for precise height adjustment of a heavy view camera system. Just perfect. Love it.