gsconsolvo Loc: Ruidoso, New Mexico

I have a Manfrotto MT294A3 tripod with a 804RC2 tilt/pan head. Would like to put a ball head instead. Am considering Manfrotto 498RC2 or 498RC4 ball head. I have a Canon 7D that I would be putting my Sigma 150-500 on. Will this combination support both the camera and lens? Does anyone have a like Canon combination.

MT Shooter Loc: Montana

It would work just fine. I recommend the 498RC2 since you already have plates for it.

gsconsolvo Loc: Ruidoso, New Mexico

Thanks MTShooter, that's what I thought, but not sure of the weight.

MT Shooter Loc: Montana

The camera/lens/head combo pretty much max's out your legs, but it should work for general shooting.

sirlensalot Loc: Arizona

Even the cheaper models generally support 13-15 pounds, but always best to check specs before ordering.

OddJobber Loc: Portland, OR

Keeping in mind there is NO universal standard for rating weight capacities. Some manufacturers will rate the capacity to the point where the tripod collapses. Manfrotto seems to be very conservative in their estimates though.

WereWolf1967 Loc: Knoxville, TN

All well and true answers but for real adventure in complete frustration, you haven't lived until you've used a BENBO!!!!!

sirlensalot Loc: Arizona

Good point, but also keeping in mind, some folks choose to test the limits and beyond of specs / ratings, have found (in general) most manufacturers tend to under rate to avoid problems. Never had one collapse, but I suppose anything can and will happen given certain circumstances. There are always exceptions, especially with products from China.
I recently looked at two tripods, both with ball heads, both under $100. Portability was the primary goal. Quality of ball head was secondary. Weight was third on list. One claimed to support 13 lbs. The other 15 lbs. For my use it was more than enough, although higher capacities could be necessary depending on need. I think the standard would remain the same although, testing and advertising can differ immensely.