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Tripod head recommendations?
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Nov 22, 2022 13:57:46   #
alexol
 
I'd like some recommendations please for a tripod head, which I'll be using on a Manfrotto 458B. I currently have a pistol grip, with which I'm not in love and it will probably be in our Classifieds shortly.

MUST be Arca plate compatible, and as reasonably priced as possible. Presently I'm thinking about a Benro HD2A 3-way Pan Head, but would welcome any reasons as to why this is model is a bad idea, or reasons why a pan/tilt is bad idea (never had one) and/or generally better suggestions. That the Benro doesn't have a level on it puts me off just a little.

And while I appreciate that there is a lovely Gitzo fluid head out there for a mere $600, that isn't part of the current financial game plan!

The head & tripod will not be used that often, mostly for simple family portrait stuff, and occasionally for wildlife with a 100-500 type zoom, so nothing too arduous.

And if you happen to have a nice one in great condition that would fit the bill & that you'd like to sell, please PM me. I'll be traveling for a few days so I probably won't reply immediately.

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Nov 22, 2022 20:06:20   #
alexol
 
I should have mentioned that the level indicator isn't important as my camera has one built in.

Portability isn't much of a concern either - solidity and ease of use, and the ability to handle less than always gentle handling and my primary concerns,

Looking forward to hearing your suggestions, folks.

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Nov 23, 2022 07:46:33   #
stevetassi
 
What do you mean by reasonably priced as possible? What is your budget? Without knowing that it’s hard to make recommendations.

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Nov 23, 2022 08:15:58   #
Warhorse Loc: SE Michigan
 
I've been happy with my Benro GX35.

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Nov 23, 2022 09:02:56   #
alexol
 
Budget is around $150, and there is something to be had for less, so much the better. I'm happy to buy used, too.

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Nov 23, 2022 09:06:53   #
alexol
 
Warhorse wrote:
I've been happy with my Benro GX35.


I already have a basic Manfrotto ball head in addition to the previously noted Manfrotto ball head pistol grip. The GX35 looks similar to the Manfrotto one.

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Nov 23, 2022 10:27:22   #
KTJohnson Loc: Northern Michigan
 
I like & use a Manfrotto MVH500AH Fluid Head, works great at about $150 currently.

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/944774-REG/manfrotto_mvh500ah_pro_fluid_head.html/?msclkid=66f4bf5115e51294de02dc2f2e4be6e2

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Nov 23, 2022 11:39:07   #
gonzo.3800
 
Neewer 54mm ball head, arcaswiss compatible $85 on Amazon works great with my tamron 150/600 g2 on a bogan 3011 shot the eclipse with this set up

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Nov 23, 2022 11:58:00   #
imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida
 
KTJohnson wrote:


This is not arca/swiss without adapting .......

I also use a video/fluid head but I cannot recommend one without a leveling base and an L bracket AND, most video/fluid heads need adaptation to become A/S. All this adds up to $$ ! But once you get there, the results are quite NICE.

3-way pan/tilt heads are quite slow and laborious in use - most suited for static close-up macro work with geared controls.
.

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Nov 23, 2022 12:11:59   #
Gordon_CO Loc: Colorful Colorado
 
Back in June I purchased a Innorel N52. Works well , very well made. I paid around a $100.00 for it on Amazon.

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Nov 23, 2022 18:23:33   #
uhaas2009
 
I learned that the first pistol grip was way better than the later models. My pistol grip couldn’t hold the 810 with 70-200 2.8. I found an old Foba ($75)head what’s capable to hold whatever weight I put on. lots of heads are to unflexibel or to much buttons for me.
The foba with the manfrotto is heavy. I end up with the fotopro and a peak design tripod which are good. It’s not easy to find the right tripod with the right head…..

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Nov 23, 2022 21:15:25   #
Sidwalkastronomy Loc: New Jersey Shore
 
alexol wrote:
Budget is around $150, and there is something to be had for less, so much the better. I'm happy to buy used, too.


I use surgical heads and no problem

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Nov 23, 2022 22:14:46   #
alexol
 
"Surgical heads"?

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Nov 23, 2022 22:20:05   #
Orphoto Loc: Oregon
 
For a sturdy ball head, consider a used Markins m10 or m20.

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Nov 23, 2022 22:24:47   #
alexol
 
Thank you but as I'm sure you will have read, I already have two ball heads and don't want another.

I'm looking for opinions on some other form of tripod head.

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