MrBob Loc: lookout Mtn. NE Alabama

A question from a friend who is going to spend big bucks on a Ballhead. No, don't offer alternatives as it is useless. Question is for actual users of RRS ballheads; what are the pros and cons of a lever clamp as opposed to a knurled knob. Does the extended lever get in the way? Any chance of accidentally opening. There will be no quick change of camera bodies. Meanwhile I as a mere mortal use my pistol grip. Thanks for any advice.

PixelStan77 Loc: Vermont/Chicago

I chose the Full-Size Screw-Knob Clamp because when clamped, I know it is clamped and cannot accidentally release the lever clamp. Plus I saved about $100

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

I have both, the lever clamp is superior for purpose of 'quick release'. I have the large screw clamp on a monopod that gives another hand-hold option, relevant for a monopod. Choosing the screwclamp for a tripod would be just to save on cost, an a bit 'slower' for release context, but not a functional difference.

Accidentally opening the lever, no. The lever would have to catch on a very significant 'snag' and a good deal of effort would be needed to tug on the snag to open the lever. The lever half-way allows the dove-tail to slide, but still not 'fall out' of the clamp. The clamp has to be opened fully to vertically remove the dovetail. The lever-clamp is a very secure design.

I do have the occasional issue of some of the clamps getting in the way. It's hard to explain other than I occasionally have to consider which end of the camera's L-plate and / or lens-collar plate to connect so the lever can be opened. I can use the equipment as desired. It's just like parking your car next to a high curb, is there enough space to open the door on the curb-side, as a similar example. Just move the car a bit, if needed.

cjc2 Loc: Hellertown PA

I have and regularly use both types. On my Monopod, I prefer the screw clamp because I worry I will accidently unlatch the clamp. On my tripod (RRS ball head) i have a lever clamp. IMHO, it's personal taste. Best of luck.

clint f. Loc: Priest Lake Idaho, Spokane Wa

The lever is adjustable and seems very secure. Works very quickly for changing orientation with an “L” bracket.

tradio Loc: Oxford, Ohio

I use the BH50 with the lever clamp and have never had any problems with it. I don't usually carry the tripod around with the camera attached but, I would have no worries if I chose to do so.
I had the same concerns when I was in the contemplation phase of the purchase. I would get the lever and not worry about the cost- the sting of the price will soon be over but, the ease of use lasts forever.
I am extremely happy with the head and would not hesitate to get another if this one was stolen.

jackpinoh Loc: Kettering, OH 45419

I have both screw and lever RRS clamps. I once had a pivot pin on a clamp drop down from the top of the clamp, rendering the clamp inoperable. RRS fixed it for free, but as a result of this incident, I believe that the screw type clamp is more reliable.

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

As with any clamping system with one or two exceptions, like Acratech which has an adjustment knob on the opposite side of the lever - a lever clamp is most secure with plates, L brackets and lens feet that are from the same manufacturer. The Arca-Swiss style clamp will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer - so to be most compatible with as many arca style clamps, the screw is better than the lever. I like the screw because it can apply more clamping pressure, directly, as compared to the lever, which works with a spring.

BTW, RRS gear - all of it - is top shelf. It's nice to see someone who really appreciates good design, quality workmanship and a great company behind it all. As far as an unintended release of a lever clamp, I suppose it does happen, but one would have to be doing something wrong - like attaching the camera/lens to the tripod, heaving it onto a shoulder, then bushwacking in the woods, where the lever could get snagged on something. A screw is much less likely to release. But then again, one shouldn't be carrying a camera in that fashion anyway. We all do it, though.

jwreed50 Loc: Manassas, VA

I too use a RRS BH-40 ball head with the quick-release lever, and I've had virtually no problem with it. It's very solid and secure and I don't worry at all about inadvertently releasing the clamp -- just won't happen.

The RRS stuff is exceedingly well designed and manufactured. I've always been of the view that you should, "Buy well once."

par4fore Loc: Bay Shore N.Y.

I tried both on the BH55'
IMO, I trust the screw more than the lever. The lever can catch on something or not be adjusted properly although rare. The lever is more convenient though if you are swapping bodies a lot, also rare.

twillsol Loc: St. Louis, MO

I have had a RRS ballhead for two years now. Love it. Very solid and easy to use with the clamp. And it would be pretty difficult to accidently release it as it fits nice and tight.

MrBob Loc: lookout Mtn. NE Alabama

Thanks guys for the advice. My friend can now buy based on very knowledgeable comments of actual users. Since good friends share and share alike I can't wait to put whatever he selects on my tripod for a trial run; salivating with envy all the while. Thanks again for good advice... Bob

mborn Loc: Massachusetts

Festus Loc: North Dakota

I have had both for years. Prefer the lever by far.

via the lens Loc: Northern California, near Yosemite NP

As a RRS bullhead user, I first had the lever and now have the knob (on a second purchase). I had trouble with the tightness of the lever as I was having hand problems so went with the know on the second purchase. It works out fine, as I've learned to be fairly quick with it. I have quickly changed camera bodies, too. If your hands are strong enough the lever is probably faster. Love the product. No, the lever did not get in may way nor did it ever open accidentally, way too tight for that.