Really Right Stuff TVC-34L + BH-55: One Month Update

I got the Really Right Stuff TVC-34L tripod and BH-55 ball head a little over a month ago. You can check out my unboxing video at the link below:
• Really Right Stuff Unb...
After a little over a month of usage, this is a quick update on my experiences with the tripod so far. It is a major upgrade to the tripods that I have owned previously. Stay tuned for more....

[@donaldchalfy7811]

I purchased the same set up you have, in 2013. The TVC-34L and the BH-55 ball head with the screw fastener, instead of the quick release plate. I also bought the spikes and claws for the feet if I ever need them, and the great, heavy-duty case. Now that it is 2021, I hope you are still enjoying your tripod system as much as I am.

[@4x13]

Been thinking about picking up 34L - curious what height it comes to, if one avoids opening up one leg section (might not need the full height of it all the time, but if I leave one out, is it too short?)

[@RustyParkhurst]

Hey Alex, with one section of the legs left in the closed position, it is about 52 inches from the floor to the top plate. Add another 4 inches or so for a ballhead and then your camera on top of that. So, still pretty tall.

[@4x13]

Rusty Parkhurst Thank you for answering!

[@kastawaykay620]

Trying to decide between the 33 and the 34l you have. What are your thoughts between the two?

[@RustyParkhurst]

I went back and forth between these two as well. The 33 is a little less expensive, but does not extend as high and does not fold up quite as small. For the extra $$, I decided the 34L was worth it.

[@ericharrisonjr.510]

You never opening it up so that we can see the max height. Would be nice if you reviewers did that, along with telling us how tall you are for reference. Eight out of every ten video reviews I've watched on tripods, the reviewers talk and talk and talk about the tripod with it folded either in their hands or on a table for the entire video, occasionally sliding a leg segment in-n-out a couple times or twisting a knob or handle. Important stuff, but OPEN IT UP,... STAND BESIDE IT,... so we can SEE! It is a VIDEO for Lord's sake. Still,... thanks for the update on your thoughts and use. Appreciated! I'm a high school senior looking for a good tripod I won't have to re-buy when I become a college senior and tall enough where I won't have to bend over when shooting with my lens point a good angle above the horizon. Right now, I sorta stuck between this TVC34L and the GT3543XLS, and this video did help me a lot. Again,... thanks Mr. Parkhurst!

[@RustyParkhurst]

Thanks for watching, Eric. You're right, I should have demonstrated how tall this tripod is. You'll have to take my word that this thing is really tall when fully extended. Easily tall enough for most anyone, especially with a ballhead and camera on top.

[@4toes1nose]

In and out of hotel rooms? You are really taxing on your equipment