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Gitzo Basalt tripods with G-Lock
Ralf Jurrien : June 28th 2007 - 09:05 CET
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 Gitzo Basalt tripods with G-Lock : The Gitzo Basalt Series was designed to give carbon fiber like features and performance at pricing approaching the aluminum series. But, the Gitzo engineers are always making improvements, and the carbon fiber tripods have added many new features since the Basalt tripods were introduced, including the ALR (anti-leg-rotation) which made its debut in the Basalt series. Now, Gitzo is taking one of the most exciting and important new features of the Carbon fiber series and bringing it to the Basalt models- the G-Lock! Thanks to the cone-shaped locking ramp that is at the core of the patented design, the lock strength is amplified with less torque than all other twist lock designs.
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 Gitzo tripods with G-Lock
The G-lock also brings a 20% increase in rigidity along with faster operation a safer locking than the previous generation of leg locks. Additionally, the G-Lock’s “gravity lock” feature actually increases the locking power as you increase the load on the tripod. The basalt series remains an excellent choice for those who want the resistance to temperature, weight-savings and dampening properties approaching those of carbon-fiber, but at a more economical price.
Gitzo Basalt tripods - Gravity Lock
The innovative mechanism represents the evolution of the twist-lock system: the G-Lock is a completely redesigned twist-lock system that’s substantially faster, stronger and more rigid than its predecessor. Unwanted play between lock parts has been removed so leg sections lock together as one to give the tripod a rock solid structure. G-Lock stands for Gravity Lock. The unique cone shaped ramp and locking ring creates a “gravity locking” effect: the higher the load applied vertically to the system, the stronger the locking effect.
Gitzo Basalt fiber tubes
Using the experience gained working with other advanced composite materials has made Gitzo the first and only manufacturer of a new generation of tripods that use Basalt fiber tubes. The fiber is made from basalt rock which is crushed and melted at 1500°C (or 2735°F). The extracted fibers are transformed into a tube using the same technology used for Gitzo Carbon 6X tube. Basalt tube has most of the features of carbon fiber, like high thermal and dimensional stability and reduced weight (20% lighter than aluminum). Like 6X, it is engineered to match Gitzo’s performance standards. Our Basalt tubes have a 1.2mm thick wall and a 3-crossed layer structure with built in Anti Leg Rotation (ALR). The performance and price of Basalt tripods puts them between aluminum and high performance Carbon 6X.
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