Gitzo "Arca-Swiss" Mod

Yes, yet another mod post I'm sharing… But this one is quite different from the other ones! While in the previous posts I talked about only aesthetic customizations, this one is more utilitarian: I updated to the universal Arca-Swiss quick release base, on what once were a proprietary and somehow outdated system from older Gitzo tripods.

Gitzo G2220 + G1276 = Amazing combo!

Investing in a good tripod is always something I recommend people. I know in the beginning it adds up when considering other essentials we need starting the hobby or career, but if you find yourself needing a tripod, buy once and cry once. Same thing applies to lightning tripods. It doesn't make sense spending all the money on expensive gear just to use them on flimsy tripods.

Nowadays we have plenty of options, even some more budget friendly ones such as Benro. The more well known is Manfrotto which offers some good models, but I chose the very reputable and more expensive Gitzo. It also worth noting Gitzo became part of the Vinten group, which also owns Manfrotto.

The Gitzo G2220 Explorer tripod leg design is really flexible with the rapid column feature, it will lock solid at almost any angle. Paired with the Gitzo G1276 off center head, it is definitely a combo hard to beat. The only downside for me is that being more than 10 years from its release, the aluminum construction is more on a heavy side. There is an updated version model G2228 and GT2541EX which is worth looking as a lighter option. But in really the biggest issue for me is the proprietary quick release system with C-profile plates. It works, but is not as nice as the Arca-Swiss, which became the industry standard for a reason.

The SmallRig Arca-Type 2143

Enter the SmallRig Arca-Type 2143 with a lever system. There is nothing like the exquisite design of the Gitzo G1276 off center ballhead, and there isn't a updated version of it with the Arca-Swiss clamp. Although not intended for this, I tried adapting the quick release clamp and it worked! For my surprise, the dimensions were vey close to the head surface, it fitted pretty well and I was able to install it securely.

Conclusion

I'm a big fan of DIY projects, and with this mod I was happy to updating the C-profile plates of Gitzo to the universal Arca-Swiss style on my the favorite camera tripod combo I've been using for about 10 years. I hope now I'll keep it for a long time to come. Maybe I'll upgrade the tripod heads with a carbon fiber because of the weight, but for now I'm quite happy with the results and it is serving my needs very well.