I currently use a Kirk BH-1 (with the old style Quick Release clamp).
Is there anything out there that's smaller, lighter and just as good?
I have a light-weight wood camera and a DSLR.
I have an old-style Gitzo G1228 Mk2.
I currently use a Kirk BH-1 (with the old style Quick Release clamp).
Is there anything out there that's smaller, lighter and just as good?
I have a light-weight wood camera and a DSLR.
I have an old-style Gitzo G1228 Mk2.
For light weight, check out Acratech and the Arca Swiss Z1.
Really Right Stuff makes some pretty good look'n ballheads. A pro I assist for has one of their biggest ball heads, and it's really nice. In your case, though, the mid-sized one might be just the thing.
“You often feel tired, not because you've done too much, but because you've done too little of what sparks a light in you.”
― Alexander Den Heijer, Nothing You Don't Already Know
I have the RRS BH-55 head and it is by far the best ball head I have used. It weighs about 1/4 pound less that the Kirk but is probably very similar in size.
Stepping down to a BH-40 would save you 17 oz. (13 oz. vs. 30 oz.) and would be considerably smaller than the Kirk.
I also recommend the lever clamps. Super fast to mount/dismount your camera but super secure hold.
I have a Kaiser Medium ball head with an Arca clamp. It works wonderfully for my Tachihara, my Mamiya 645E, and D-70. It's not fancy, but it's well-built and gets the job done.
I haven't checked on availability as mine is a few years old. I got it at Keeble & Schucat in Palo Alto, CA.
--P
Preston-Columbia CA
"If you want nice fresh oats, you have to pay a fair price. If you can be satisfied with oats that have already been through the horse; that comes a little cheaper."
I haven't handled one myself but Markins ballheads get rave reviews in other photo forums.
...Mike
It looks like there are quite a few alternatives. Peliminary decision: the RRS BH-40 looks promising. It's rated at 18 pounds. Would you feel comfortable putting a Wisner wood 4x5 on it?
What are the advantages of a ball head over a pan head? I struggle with ball heads.
Yes.Originally Posted by Rider
“You often feel tired, not because you've done too much, but because you've done too little of what sparks a light in you.”
― Alexander Den Heijer, Nothing You Don't Already Know
Maybe start another thread to avoid de-railing this one?What are the advantages of a ball head over a pan head? I struggle with ball heads.
“You often feel tired, not because you've done too much, but because you've done too little of what sparks a light in you.”
― Alexander Den Heijer, Nothing You Don't Already Know
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