It's all relative. I happen to have the Z1, which is rated at 130lbs. It's a solid performer whether I use 5x7 (even at an angle) or Nikkor 400/3.5 + body. No idea how it will react on 8x10. Not able to comment on any other ball heads. However, if you adjust and center the camera/lens gravity, you probably could make a cheaper support to cooperate with your demands.
Overall, it's rather frustrating and counter productive to have the head slip on you (when it's in locked position) or somehow disengages and the camera tumbles down the canyon (or wherever). Anyway, appropriate tripod technique is essential prior to installing the camera....even a smaller one. Most of us (here) may be diligent about it but accidents do happen.
Les
Bookmarks