I'm thinking of biting the bullet and getting a Gitzo, I want it for backpacking with my Wista field, so would like a carbon model. but I have some questions.

1. Are they really that much better than a Manfrotto? (3 times the cost better?)

2. Is the four leg version less rigid than the 3 leg?

3. does anyone know the weight a 1348 will take? (dealer has one secondhand)

4. why does the Gitzo web site suggest the smallest Carbon tripod I need for a large format camera is the GT3530 capable of supporting 39lbs? my camera only weighs 7lbs?

Thanks in advance