The GT3340L is a model from Gitzo’s top of the line systematic series. It is from a more traditional design where the center column is built in as standard. As a discontinued model, this review will be brief.
Specifications
This is an abbreviated list. The full measured specs can be found here.
Weight 7.06 lbs (3.203 kgs)
Maximum Height 59.1 in (150.1 cm)
Minimum Height 21.3 in (54.1 cm)
Max Height with Center Column 73.0 in (185.4 cm)
Folded Length 23.2 in (58.9 cm)
Folded Volume 312.0 cu. in. (5.1 liters)
Leg Material Aluminum
Leg Sections 4
Primary Leg Angle 24 deg
Leg Locks Twist
Exchangeable Feet Yes
Foot Type Rubber
Bottom Hook Yes
Retail Price $450
The standout spec is clearly the weight. This tripod is built like a tank. It is to date the heaviest tripod I have tested. It extends quite high, especially once you factor in the center column. Its not difficult to get the camera overhead for most people.
Features
Unlike most systematic tripods, the GT3340L includes a non-removable center column. This is really useful for studio work where fast height adjustments are necessary.
Use
The usage of this tripod is not quite as smooth as the modern high end systematic tripods. The leg locks are a little slick and need to be tightened from top to bottom. There are no problems with the handling though, and it shouldn’t disappoint anyone who uses it.
Build Quality
As I said before, this tripod is a tank. I suspect it has been used for over a decade and still functions perfectly. You don’t even have to be gentle with it to get a couple more decades out of it.
Test Results
The full test data can be found here. The table below summarizes the results.
| Stiffness About Vertical Axis | 594 +/- 4 Nm/rad |
| Damping About Vertical Axis | 0.289 +/- 0.029 Js/rad |
| Stiffness About Radial Axis | 1652 +/- 7 Nm/rad |
| Damping About Radial Axis | 0.27 +/- 0.027 Js/rad |
The stiffness here is not particularly great. It is eclipsed by the modern crop of high end travel tripods. However, this tripod is much taller. When used at shorter heights that are more typical, the performance will be much better.
Summary
Pros
- Inexpensive on the used market
- High build quality
Cons
- Heavy
- Mediocre stiffness at maximum height
If you need a tripod that can support a substantial amount of weight, has a center column, is inexpensive, and won’t travel too far from your studio or car, this could be a good tripod for you. If you can find one that is.