In LL video journal Vol 2 Issue 8, Michael makes a good case for 4 sections versus 3 sections. Flexibility on slopes or uneven terrain. Makes good sense to me.
But Gitzo has 2 versions of their 3540 tripod I am considering: the 3540LS and 3540XLS, both 4 section leg tripods.
The 3540XLS's max height is 78 inches while the LS version's max height is 57.5 inches.
I do not need the extra length for comfort reasons because I'm only 5' 10", but if the extra length does bring added versatility and flexibility in addition to the 4 section legs then it's the one I will buy.
HOWEVER, Besides the slightly heavier weight and the slightly longer closed height of the 33540XLS, which might be an issue for air travel, are there any DOWNSIDES to the extra length? Does the extra length actually make the tripod more unwieldy, cumbersome, or clumsy to use, outweighing the versatility of the 4 section legs?
John