Gitzo GS5513XLS Telescopic Center Column for Series 5 Systematic Tripods

Perfect addition to my Giant Gitzo and a chance to toss the Studio Assets camera mast in to the do-not-use pile. Gets my Gitzo up to 16 feet - which is more than enough and it is STABLE. No more putting the D850 atop a mast with a 19 PC and hoping it does not tilt over.

I optionally pair this GS5513XLS with a GT5543XLS. Although it is an expandable column, the GS5513XLS is the most rock-solid center column I have ever used, owing to the excellent support of the G-lock system. There is virtually no flex in the column until you fully extend the second leg. When all its leg sections are fully extended, it flexes a bit when one shakes it. Nothing to be concerned about, unless you're shooting at low shutter speeds or its windy, etc.; The column makes the;GT5543XLS more versatile. With it, I am able to take shots at a height of 14'-15'. But that's not it, one can also keep the tripod at its minimum height, while extending the center column.; This enables one to use the setup in tight spaces like a super stable monopod on which you can actually leave your gear unattended without worrying about it tipping over or someone tripping over a fully extended tripod leg. My only qualm is that the column had a very small abrasion on the carbon fiber near the base adjacent to the hook. Plus, the there was a bit of glue sticking out the sides between the black base attached to the carbon fiber column. This was a bit surprising to me, because the item cost over 400, and the GT5543XLS had literally arrived in the most pristine condition I have ever received any tripod, leaving me to believe Gitzo has superb quality control. Bottom Line: I highly recommend this center column. It has stability comparable to that of a geared column at a fraction of the weight. Plus, one can extend it much higher than a geared column, if necessary

Six foot of telescoping center combined with 9' Gotzo Systematic 5 base means I can do low drone shots without the drone. Moreover, the payload means I can swap my Manfrotto Fluid head in and out with my RRS ballhead -- stills and video effortlessly. Vive le Telescoping column!