I would like to know what you do to keep the threads clean when set up in dirty, sandy water or a blowing sandy environment. That grinding noise can't be good for the plastic threads on tripod leg locks such as those found on the Gitzo models.

Greg

On the bottom legs that pick up most of the sand i will not close the legs all the way but stop 4-5 inches, this way the sand is less likely to enter and cause issues. i also will clean with a dry lube when i get back and need to service the equipment.

With apologies to the legions of happy Gitzo users, that's exactly why I sold mine.

1) I try not to retract the lower leg segment after it's been in water or crud until I have a chance to wipe it down. That does seem to solve about 90% of the problem.

2) I use a Hakuba/Velbon 830 which does use Gitzo-style twist locks; but it's a simple matter to disassemble the leg segments and clean out any accumulated grit. The whole process probably takes about an hour for all 6 leg locks.

I've used Gitzo for the last 25 years without a single problem. After a week in salty sand I simply hose down my 'pod with fresh water and work the collar locks while doing so. No big deal.