If you intend using the camera in "the great outdoors" then I wouldn't think that there would be any need of a spreader. It's main function is to stop the legs from splaying. If the leg spikes are dug into grass or dirt - even sand - then you'll be ok. Maybe even a frozen lake .... ;-)

Robin

Hmmm. The Gitzo 1228 legs do not have spikes. Does that change you answer?

www.markins.de sell spikes for the Gitzo range - titanium as well!!!

Robin

Thanks! I'll check it out.

"I do believe that carrying a camera on the tripod is a stellar way to drop it."

You are certainly welcome to your opinion, Mike, but the method I described has been used by generations of motion picture operators and assistants, and is quite safe when the head has a standard locking device.

Removing and replacing a camera from the panhead has its own potential for disaster. I have done my share of eng shooting, and I often carried the camera using the directions I supplied.

Cheers
Wayne Orr, SOC

There is always some risks involved in any type of production work. I've been using the method described by Wayne and at times even shouldering the whole rig to move the camera and support gear. It's a risk I'm comfortable taking.

Jeff, Wayne, I'd probably trust either one of you to move a camera in that fashion.

Most people, however, lack the fine concentration and the practiced movement and carrying techniques that allow them to safely operate in that manner.