Bought a used Gitzo Systematic Ball Head Series 5 with quick release today of a eBay. Not sure that ball heads are the way to go with view cameras especially super large ones like a 16x20. I wanted to give this head a try thou. If it works it would be a lot lighter and easier to carry about then a more heavier geared head of some kind. If this head does not work out I might go with a more traditional head from a Ries wooden tripod.
The Gitzo GH5381SQD is rated to 66 lbs, in combination with the 9 foot carbon fibre Gitzo tripod I plan on buying (rated to 88 lbs), I should have a great and light combo. The Chamonix 16x20 weighs 34 lbs, with film holder and lens it should be in the 45-55 lb area, well under the 66 lb max. capacity of the ball head. What I am worried about is loosey goosey tight movements when I try to make slight adjustments in composition. The whole thing might just fall over : ))
I got the head used (mint condition) on eBay for a decent price $382 USD versus a new version which sells for $599 USD ($639 USD at B&H). With the good used price I decided to take a swing at this head and hope it is the answer I am looking for. I could probably use it with my 8x10 cameras (got 3 of those) or a future 11x14 camera if it does not work with the 16x20.
Update* I ended up getting free shipping from the eBay seller in the States, a good deal all round!
The Gitzo GH5381SQD is rated to 66 lbs, in combination with the 9 foot carbon fibre Gitzo tripod I plan on buying (rated to 88 lbs), I should have a great and light combo. The Chamonix 16x20 weighs 34 lbs, with film holder and lens it should be in the 45-55 lb area, well under the 66 lb max. capacity of the ball head. What I am worried about is loosey goosey tight movements when I try to make slight adjustments in composition. The whole thing might just fall over : ))
I got the head used (mint condition) on eBay for a decent price $382 USD versus a new version which sells for $599 USD ($639 USD at B&H). With the good used price I decided to take a swing at this head and hope it is the answer I am looking for. I could probably use it with my 8x10 cameras (got 3 of those) or a future 11x14 camera if it does not work with the 16x20.
Update* I ended up getting free shipping from the eBay seller in the States, a good deal all round!
Gitzo Series 5 Systematic Ball Head Specs.
- Load Capacity: 66 lb
- Arca-Type Compatible
- Low-Profile Friction Ball Head
- Fits Into Shoulder of Systematic Tripod
- Quick-Release Plate & Safety Mechanism
- 360° Panoramic Rotation
- +28° / -28° Lateral Tilt
- Fast & Smooth Hydraulic Locking System
- Included Ring Adapter
