Help with Finalizing Tripod Choice

I have decided that I need to move up to a better tripod and have pretty much come to the conclusion to go with a Gitzo CF series 3 tripod. I choose the series 3 even though the longest lens I have now is the Canon 100-400IS as a super telephoto is a wish for the future and I don't want to have to change tripods then.

I've got my choices narrowed down to:
GT3531S $675 @ NS store
GT3530LS $725 @ NS store
GT3541LS $725 @ NS store

From what I can tell the LS models get me ~8" more maximum height over the 3531S who's max height is 50.4". My current setup, without ball head is 54" max and I almost never use it at full height (I'm only 5'9" on a good day). So I'm not sure what the extra height will buy me. The other consideration is the 3 leg sections vs the 4. The advantage of the 4 sections is it does collapse smaller for checked baggage travel, which would be nice but not critical.

Are there any other considerations I am missing?


My current gear list:
Canon EOS 40D
Battery Grip
Canon 100-400IS
Canon 100 EX macro
Tokina 28-70 ATX Pro II
Tokina 12-24 f4
Canon 550 EX Flash

Thanks
Ken

Ken, I'm 6' 2" and have never really needed much more than than the 3531LS and usually do not have it at it's maximum extension so you being 5 inches shorter probably would make the 3531S just perfect for you.

Ken,

The 3531S is just about right or ever so slightly too short for me when I am standing totally upright - I too am 5-9. I think it may be worth the extra $50 to consider the 3530LS or 3541LS - especially if you even shoot over your head etc. Then you have the option if needed to go a little higher and also do not have to extend the legs as high. That said I am sure the 3531S would be fine for 90% of your shooting.

If you're NOT using a leveling base you might consider the NSN safety plate - just in case. Give Tara a call when you are ready and she can ship everything for free plus throw in a pod pad for you as well at no extra charge. Or you can use the coupon code FREEPAD to get the free pod pad - runs out at the end of the month.

One question is if you do get a supertele are you going to continue always using it as less than max height? I'm 6'1" and my 3530LS is just the right height for me. So, yes, it'd be slightly more than you need at 5'9". But it's much easier to shorten a tripod a few inches than lengthen it beyond what's physically possible if shooting upwards.

I have the 3530S (same specs as 3531S) and I'm 5' 6". On level ground, fully extending the legs puts it at almost perfect eye level for me which makes it
fast and convenient for setting up. But the minute I am on any kind of uneven terrain, I am often wishing for more leg length. I'd recommend getting an LS
model with the extra leg height so that it's there when you need it.

Thanks for the input everyone. My order has gone in for the 3541LS. I am very much looking forward to using this new tripod.

Ken

Ken,

Good decision! I saw your order go through yesterday - ordered and shipped yesterday as well. It's on it's way!

Thanks Ken; Let us know what you think of the tripod once you receive it.