Gitzo

Gitzo GK2542-80QD Mountaineer Ser.2 Carbon Fiber Tripod Kit

Achieve Stability and Precision for Exceptional PhotographyThe Gitzo GK2542-80QD Mountaineer Kit is the ultimate solution for photographers seeking a lightweight yet rigid tripod system. This kit includes the GT2542 Mountaineer Tripod and GH2780QD Center Ball Head, designed for DSLRs with up to 2...

$1,275.12*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jul 13, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

Achieve Stability and Precision for Exceptional Photography

The Gitzo GK2542-80QD Mountaineer Kit is the ultimate solution for photographers seeking a lightweight yet rigid tripod system. This kit includes the GT2542 Mountaineer Tripod and GH2780QD Center Ball Head, designed for DSLRs with up to 200mm lenses (300mm maximum). Featuring Carbon exact tubes and advanced locking mechanisms, this tripod delivers superior stability and ease of use.

Specifications:

  • Brand: Gitzo
  • Model: GK2542-80QD
  • Series: Mountaineer Ser.2
  • Material: Carbon exact
  • Maximum Height (with center column extended): 70.47 inches
  • Maximum Height (with center column down): 59.45 inches
  • Closed Length: 27.17 inches
  • Weight: 5.18 lbs
  • Safety Payload: 30.86 lbs
  • Head Type: GH2780QD Center Ball Head
  • Leg Sections: 4
  • Features: Reversible column, Hook, Removable feet, G-lock ultra, Ground level set (with unlocking ring), Leg angle selector with spring

Key Features

Reversible column

Built in hook

Constructed from Carbon exact

G-Lock Ultra leg logs

Leg angle selector with spring

Specifications

Material
Carbon exact
Leg Locks
G-Lock Ultra
Column Features
Reversible column, Built-in hook
Leg Angle Adjustment
Leg angle selector with spring

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Constructed from Carbon exact material, ensuring high strength and vibration reduction for sharper images
  • Features G-Lock Ultra leg locks, providing secure and rapid setup and adjustment in various conditions
  • The reversible column offers increased flexibility for low-angle shots and specialized camera positioning
  • Equipped with a built-in hook, allowing for additional weight to be added for enhanced stability in windy environments
  • Leg angle selectors with spring mechanism enable quick and precise adjustment to uneven terrain or creative angles

👎 Cons

  • The Carbon exact construction and advanced features likely place this kit in a higher price bracket than aluminum alternatives
  • Series 2 sizing might be too bulky or heavy for photographers prioritizing ultra-lightweight travel gear
  • Requires careful handling to maintain the integrity of the carbon fiber legs and precision locking mechanisms
  • The specialized design and features might present a learning curve for users unfamiliar with high-end tripod systems
  • As a tripod kit, it's a significant piece of equipment that adds to the overall gear weight for on-location shoots

Frequently Asked Questions

The Gitzo GK2542-80QD Mountaineer tripod is constructed from Carbon exact, a material known for its strength and lightweight properties.
The G-Lock Ultra leg locks are designed to provide robust and fast locking of the tripod legs, enhancing stability and making setup quicker and more secure.
Yes, this tripod features a reversible column, which is beneficial for shooting at very low angles or for specific macro photography setups.
The built-in hook allows photographers to attach additional weight, such as a camera bag, to the tripod's center column, increasing stability in challenging conditions like strong winds.
The leg angle selector includes a spring mechanism, which allows for quick and precise adjustment of each leg's angle, adapting the tripod to uneven surfaces or different shooting perspectives.