I'm looking for a tripod for my Wista 45VX + Manfrotto 405 head, totaling 4kg (8.8lb) of load.
I have the opportunity to buy a used Gitzo G1257 for 200eur, but I'm also looking into the new Manfrotto 055 carbon series for 370eur.
I have a different model Gitzo, but I find that it is more than sturdy enough for my 4x5 and 8x10. I suspect you can't go wrong with either of those choices, but for cost alone, if I had a chance to inspect and confirm that the Gitzo was in working condition, I might tend that way. A good choice to have!
I realize weight is important when packing gear, but is the 0.5 kg weight reduction really worth nearly double the price? In the US, the Manfroto 055 CF is something like 80% more expensive than the aluminum version, and the specs are nearly identical (It's also 100€ more in the US).
... I'm not criticizing, I'm genuinely curious. I've never been able to justify the cost of a CF tripod.