Leofoto DC-404C center column

Leofoto DC-404C center column made of 10-layer wrapped carbon, 425 mm additional height

If you’re just missing a small bit of height for certain subjects, the Leofoto DC-404C center column is exactly that accessory you don’t need all the time, but then suddenly you do. It is designed as a separate center column exclusively for the tripods listed below and fits them cleanly, with no play and no DIY feel. The carbon tube is made of 10-layer wrapped carbon, matching the material philosophy of many system tripods, and the metal components are made of aluminum, precisely CNC-milled from aircraft-grade aluminum. You can feel that in the transitions, in the fit, and in the overall very “true” workmanship.

At 0.51 kg it remains pleasantly light, especially when you’re already out with a head, camera, and maybe a longer telephoto. And yes, it’s robust, but not bulky. That’s how it should be.

Compatibility: suitable for Gitzo Systematic Series 5 and selected Leofoto tripods

Important, because it really only fits then: the DC-404C is suitable for the Gitzo Systematic Series 5. It is also designed for the following tripods: Leofoto LM-402C, Leofoto LN-404C, Leofoto LM-405C, and Leofoto LM-404C. In exactly these setups, the center column sits as it should and can be securely clamped even under load.

Dimensions, weight, and construction: 36 mm diameter, 510 g, carbon and aluminum

The center column has a diameter of 36 mm and weighs 510 g, i.e. 0.51 kg. The tube is made of carbon, 10-layer wrapped, and the metal parts are made of aluminum. This is not just a data sheet point, but has a real effect in practice: low weight, high rigidity, and operation remains pleasant even if you adjust it frequently.

The maximum working length is 425 mm. Quite specifically, this means: the maximum working height of your tripod is increased by up to 425 mm. Not “a little bit”, but noticeably.

Adjustment, inversion function, and low-level macro photography

The DC-404C glides smoothly and without sticking, allowing you to adjust the height quickly, even when things need to move fast. And it doesn’t just go up: you can also use it inverted, facing downwards. In that case, the camera hangs below the tripod spider, which is really practical for low-level macro shots because you can get very low without contortions.

The whole thing is locked via a sturdy wing nut on the tripod top. It is quick to operate and holds the center column securely in the desired position. It also works well in the cold, even with gloves, which is something people tend to underestimate outdoors.

3/8-inch screw and weight hook for more stability

On top there is a 3/8-inch screw on the top plate. This allows you to securely attach professional tripod heads without having to experiment with adapters. A hook is integrated at the bottom, intended for a counterweight, such as a camera bag. Especially in windy conditions or when the ground is not ideal, you can noticeably increase the tripod’s stability this way.

Features of the Leofoto DC-404C center column at a glance

• made of 10-layer carbon, 10 times wrapped
• material combination of carbon and aluminum
• diameter 36 mm
• weight 510 g, equivalent to 0.51 kg
• maximum working length 425 mm, increases maximum working height by 425 mm
• with 3/8-inch screw for secure mounting of professional tripod heads
• smoothly gliding adjustment, can also be used inverted facing downwards
• wing nut for quick, secure clamping, easy to operate even with gloves
• with weight hook for counterweight, such as a camera bag
• suitable for Gitzo Systematic Series 5
• for tripods: Leofoto LM-402C, Leofoto LN-404C, Leofoto LM-405C, Leofoto LM-404C