Posted by Jim DeWitt on February 11, 2011 at 9:38 PM
My Gitzo ball head failed today in the field; I'll be hand-holding all shots from this point forward, which is more of a problem than you'd think. Ecuador jungles are notoriously dark.
The failed head is under warranty, and I expect Gitzo will repair or replace it, but I don't feel I can trust it any more.
Does anyone have recommendations for a head that will fit my Gitzo tripod, carry an Olympus E-5 and 300mm f3.8 lens (sometimes with a teleconverter)?
Thanks in advance.
Posted by Richard Ditch on February 11, 2011 at 9:58 PM
I'd start at Really Right Stuff. I've got their BH-55 ball head with lever lock on the A-S plate clamp. I use it with a Sidekick for the 300/2.8 with 2x, and without the Sidekick for all other lenses. They have smaller models if that would work for you.
Posted by Bill Chambers on February 11, 2011 at 10:56 PM
Another vote for the RRS BH-55. I use both it and the smaller BH-40 and have been exceedingly pleased with both. Personally, I would go with the BH-55 over the BH-40 if I were going to use the 300 f/2,8. Smooth as glass, yet locks down tight and secure.
Posted by Max Waugh on February 12, 2011 at 12:25 AM
Jim, I'd have to recommend the RRS BH-55 as well... even though I don't have it. During my rainforest trips I've been using the Acratech Ultimate ballhead, which is simply too flimsy for the 300 2.8 I bring along. I'd really like to upgrade to the BH-55 specifically with 300mm 2.8 jungle shoots in mind.
Max
Posted by Keith Bauer on February 12, 2011 at 9:09 AM
RRS certainly makes nice ballheads. I would also take a serious look at the Markins line of heads.
Posted by Mike Klarich on February 12, 2011 at 11:21 AM
Another vote for RRS. I've had a BH-55 for years, and have never had an issue. They are the best in my opinon. I have also monted an L-plate on my camera.
I agree with Keith Bauer. I have one of their smaller Q-3 Emille Ball Head w/QR and I am extremely satisfied with it's performance.
Posted by Darren Huski on February 12, 2011 at 3:31 PM
Go to one with the Arca-Swiss style lamp. Do not think the Gitzo's come that way.
If you do you can look ar Arca-Swiss, Kirk, Really Right Stuff (RRS), Markins, or Acratech. All of them make very highly regarded ballheads and you cannot go wrong with any of those brands.
Then get custom camera and long lens tripod collar plates from Kirk or RRS.
You will be good for many years with this setup.
Posted by David Kjaer on February 16, 2011 at 7:10 PM
Hi Jim
Recently purchased an Acratech Long Lens Head which I use on a 2 series Gitzo carbon fibre tripod. I use this when I travel or have a bit of a trek and need to keep my weight down. I love it as it will easily support my 500mm + Canon 1D Mk 1V and is my first choice for my 300mm f2.8 and smaller. Weighs less than 1 pound.
David
Posted by Gary Gulash on February 20, 2011 at 7:28 PM
Hi Jim,
I recently spent some time with a pro using the Canon IDMkIV and the 500. He and his friend were both using the Acratech Long Lens Head as David has just suggested. They were both very happy with the head. A lot lighter than a Wimberly setup and very capable, would definitely give it a try!!!
Discussion
9 repliesThe failed head is under warranty, and I expect Gitzo will repair or replace it, but I don't feel I can trust it any more.
Does anyone have recommendations for a head that will fit my Gitzo tripod, carry an Olympus E-5 and 300mm f3.8 lens (sometimes with a teleconverter)?
Thanks in advance.
Max
If you do you can look ar Arca-Swiss, Kirk, Really Right Stuff (RRS), Markins, or Acratech. All of them make very highly regarded ballheads and you cannot go wrong with any of those brands.
Then get custom camera and long lens tripod collar plates from Kirk or RRS.
You will be good for many years with this setup.
Recently purchased an Acratech Long Lens Head which I use on a 2 series Gitzo carbon fibre tripod. I use this when I travel or have a bit of a trek and need to keep my weight down. I love it as it will easily support my 500mm + Canon 1D Mk 1V and is my first choice for my 300mm f2.8 and smaller. Weighs less than 1 pound.
David
I recently spent some time with a pro using the Canon IDMkIV and the 500. He and his friend were both using the Acratech Long Lens Head as David has just suggested. They were both very happy with the head. A lot lighter than a Wimberly setup and very capable, would definitely give it a try!!!