Manfrotto 054-Q2 (MH054M0-Q2) vs 055-Q2 (MH055M0-Q2)

ya i read good reviews for both the manfrotto 055/054 series and the vanguard alta pros.  both have advantages and disadvantages over each other, making it hard for me to choose.

by the way, does your center column have a hook at the bottom?  reviews don't see to say whether the manfrottos have it.

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Canon T3i
Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS
Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS