RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

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Archive 2009 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

bpham
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p.1 #1 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

I know this topic has been surfaced many times, however, my situation I guess may be different than others who posted.

My current setup is Canon 1DS MK3 and the heaviest lens I have now is the 70-200mmF2.8L. Probably will go only to 300mm F4, but not in the near future since most of the things I do are landscaping. I usually hike and take photos I'd like to buy something not too heavy but can support what I have and not more than that. That is why I'm considering these ball heads. I'm also thinking of getting the Gitzo 2531 Moutaineer (3lbs) for what I do.

With the 2541 and what I mostly do, what ball head should I get? I've read pro's and con's from some posts but seems like there are people who really like one over the others, so it is difficult for me to decide. It seems like the AT is the smoothest and does have the advantage when the camera is not horizontal or level because of its eliptical ball, but there was someone who reviewed it complained about the ball head popped out of the base and the quick release is not the best.

All of these are in the similar cost. Any feedback or suggestion are welcomed.

Thanks.

Nov 03, 2009 at 10:28 PM

sjms
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p.1 #2 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

i use my BH40 on my GT2540ex. though not as smooth running in the beginning it breaks in nicely and is my preferred lightweight ballhead. it lockup capability is bar non the easiest and lightest to the tough to obtain. its low profile is also much preferred by me too. the adjustability on the knob that a few complain raise question about is actually a big plus. for the most part from unlock to lock is les then a quarter turn. it also gives outstanding purchase when you are using gloves. there are time i wish that there was an equivelent design on the BH55 if it weren't for the factit also has outstanding grip in all conditions too. i still have a markins M10 that has seen lots of action and has some history but for the most part it is in semi retirement.

Nov 03, 2009 at 11:17 PM

JohnJ80
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p.1 #3 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

I sold my BH40 and replaced it with a Q3T since I'm going to go to smaller tripod to complement my 3540LS setup. For the 2541, I'd go with the M10 and replace the clamp with the RRS QR Lever clamp.

J.

Nov 03, 2009 at 11:20 PM

Smiert Spionam
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p.1 #4 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

Horses for courses, clearly -- I sold my Q3 once I got the BH-40.

;- )

Fortunately, there's not a bad choice in this range.

Nov 03, 2009 at 11:41 PM

bpham
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p.1 #5 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

Thanks for the input, but no one seems to be able to convince me to go for one instead of the other

I know this is a tough choice.

What about warranty, accessories and supports/services from these companies from your experiences?

It is tough not being able to feel them and compare these ball heads physically, that is why this topic. I read the review of the arcaswiss from digital-picture-com and the reviewer picked the arca-swiss as his ballhead but also pointed out some issue with the locking mechanism.

Thanks.

Nov 04, 2009 at 03:20 AM

fluffybug
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p.1 #6 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

I'm in a similar situation re: ballheads - except I'm leaning towards the photo clam 44NS (or 44N and replace the clamp with RRS lever).

44 is a bit bigger, but has an excellent weight-load ratio. Guess it's similar to the BH-40, but probably more similar to the M-10 Markins, am I right?

Nov 04, 2009 at 10:26 AM

MSC
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p.1 #7 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

I had a bh40 and did not like the low profile and the lever knob...the ball was not as smooth as others that cost that much.

I had a Markins mid-size for a while, that was nice but I could never lock it down all the way to hold a bunch of wieght when at a severe angle. Others have not had this problem so maybe I got a bad one.

I have a Z1 now and it has none of those problems and is very strong. I wish the panning base lock was a little bigger but I consider that a nit as the other issues are far more important.

Nov 04, 2009 at 02:22 PM

bpham
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p.1 #8 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

MSC: About the Z1, will the panning lever at the bottom hit the base of the Gitzo 2541 (this was changed from a round knob to a lever in the newer versoin)? I've seen someone complains about that and not sure if that applies to the 2541. When you said the "panning base lock" you meant the same thing I think, which is the lever, right?

I would appreciate it when you reply to the post, if you prefer one over the others, please tell me the reasons so I can understand it and decide what I want based on the info.

Thanks again for your valuable input.

Nov 04, 2009 at 05:26 PM

wilt
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p.1 #9 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

One differential, which is a bit like being Democrat or Republican...you either like or hate the fact that the RRS ballhad pan control locks without slippage, or the fact that the Markins pan has a brake and not a lock!

Nov 05, 2009 at 05:49 AM

STJ_Photo
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p.1 #10 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

I recently bought the ARCA Z1 dp. I hae the Gitzo Systematic with a large base and the panorama base lever hits the base. However, it doest actually not matter at all - it opens and locks wonderfully. Before buying I ased ARCA directly and they told me that they make the Z1 such that it locks in the "upwards" position. Locking seems to me rather "on / off" so I dont feel a need to open the lever further. The doubly pan feature is also great - Ill not have to use a separate panning device - it's already build in and works really well. Good luck with your purchase - I'm sure both Markins and RRS makes nice gear as well...

Nov 05, 2009 at 08:04 AM

buzzski
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p.1 #11 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

I have the RRS BH-40 head and it is the best I have every had. I have a panning clamp instead of a QR clamp on it but have never experienced any lack of smoothness from day one. As regards stability with your setup, I have it mounted on Mountaineer legs and regularly use it with the RRS biggest pano setup and it is rock solid. I have shot both Canon with 70-200 2.8 IS and the 300 4is no worries. I also used it previously with Hasselblad / digital back combo with both 200 and 500mm lenses and it performed flawlessly (although the Blad 500mm lens isn't the best...) I don't have experience of the other heads you mention, and I'm sure they are great too but I wouldn't hesitate in commending RRS products.

Nov 05, 2009 at 08:11 AM

bpham
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p.1 #12 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

any issue with the ball coming off or loose? One user on B&H commnted that he carried the camera locked into the head/tripod on his shoulder and noticed that the head was coming off. Luckily he caught that ontime to save his expensive gear from falling off.

Thanks.

Nov 05, 2009 at 04:43 PM

STJ_Photo
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p.1 #13 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

The ball coming off? If you think of the Arca Z1 ball-stem looseming (not coming off) when using a sidekick that is a thing of the past. Apparently Arca made a change that gave problems with a certain series of heads. Mine looks fine and the problem should be solved.

Nov 05, 2009 at 06:17 PM

MSC
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p.1 #14 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

STJ_Photo wrote:
The ball coming off? If you think of the Arca Z1 ball-stem looseming (not coming off) when using a sidekick that is a thing of the past. Apparently Arca made a change that gave problems with a certain series of heads. Mine looks fine and the problem should be solved.

Mine too, same thing...great ballhead. I sold my BH40...never liked it.

Nov 05, 2009 at 06:38 PM

GFountain
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p.1 #15 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

I have the 2541 and Markins M10 and also the tripod base which eliminates the center column. Love this set up. You'll know you made the right choice when you hold this ball head in your hand. Beautifully made. Can carry this all day on my backpack with ease. I'm 6' tall and though I have to bend over a bit its really not an issue for me. Hope this helps.

Greg

Nov 06, 2009 at 12:20 AM

bpham
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p.1 #16 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

GFoutain,

Where do you buy the base for the 2541? can you tell if your pictures are sharper without the base?

Thanks.

Nov 06, 2009 at 01:02 AM

bpham
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p.1 #17 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

With the arca-swiss, do all of you use the classic-screw-in or the QR setup? Also, what is the Single Pan versus the double-pan?

Thanks.

Nov 06, 2009 at 01:06 AM

bpham
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p.1 #18 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

With the Markins, Arca-swiss, and RRS BH40, does any of them require the adapter bushing to screw into the 2541? I'll try to research it but if you already know, please tell me.

Thanks.

Nov 06, 2009 at 01:11 AM

GFountain
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p.1 #19 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

bpham wrote:
GFoutain,

Where do you buy the base for the 2541? can you tell if your pictures are sharper without the base?

Thanks.

Here's the link,

http://www.markinsamerica.com/MA5/TB-21.php

Not sure if pics are sharper. Have not done any tests to compare. I think others have. Do a search.

Edited on Nov 06, 2009 at 01:20 AM · View previous versions

Nov 06, 2009 at 01:18 AM

GFountain
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p.1 #20 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

bpham wrote:
With the Markins, Arca-swiss, and RRS BH40, does any of them require the adapter bushing to screw into the 2541? I'll try to research it but if you already know, please tell me.

Thanks.

Nothing extra needed.

Nov 06, 2009 at 01:18 AM

MSC
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p.1 #21 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

OK, needed a distraction tonight and the camera was out sooo..here is my present "travel" setup. I would call this medium weight. Plenty strong enough to hold a 400 2.8 IS with a 1D body with no slipping (I tried it, piece of cake)...but normally, this gets shorter lenses that go in the "travel" shoulder bag, the biggest of which is the 70-200 2.8 IS. The tripod gets strapped to the bottom of a Billingham 335 most of time. Take it right through security, in the overhead or under the seat in front, never a problem...even in a commuter jet. Couple of other lenses, batteries, cable release, and the misc other stuff we all carry. A good medium size, medium weight all-purpose kit.

This is a Z-1 with the standard screw clamp from AS. The Z1 is tough as nails, super smooth on the ballhead, panning base, and the tension control. I've owned Kirk, Markins, RRS medium ballheads...this one is my personal fav. Although in truth, the differences not at all dramatic with any of these brands...it really is just a personal preference thing). The AS clamp is the standard clamp (I do not care for lever clamps at all...see my many other many mild mannered rantings and debates on the subject, this forum is full of them, about every other month since the day I joined FM

) and just as good as any of the other screw clamps I presently have from Kirk, RRS, or Wimberley. Nothing fancy, but really...its a clamp after all. The ballhead can hold the big glass without any problem but what I like is that it is the same size as the medium ballheads...but a lot stronger. So for travel, maybe overkill...but a few ounces means nothing to me so I go for stronger and therefore IMO, more versatile.

It is sitting on a Markins Tripod Base. As you can see, the fit is perfect and solid as it looks. Virtually one piece. That screws on top of Gitzo GT2540L…L because I’m 6’3” (used to be 6’4”…that seemed to change about age 45…hmmm, 51 now, that will make me quite stumpy by retirement…if my 401k ever comes back that is).

The second pic is from my fireplace hearth right where the amazing travel tripod is living tonight…this is my and my youngest’s (is that word?) favorite living room friend…the flying piggy bank. Yes, if pigs could fly…and I guess ours does when we are not looking.

Also would like to add this...all of the ballheads you mention are very good products. The differences are slight really. We here debate/argue as if the differences were large...but IMHO, the intensity of the dialogue is usually far more than is warranted by the actual products. Any of us would be well served as photographers by the selection you outlined. What is important is something strong that will last and you don't "have" to replace. Same goes for the tripod...better to just bite the bullet and get a strong one to begin with than replace it later when the thing starts to vibrate from a 5 mph wind.

2012 © MSC

Nov 06, 2009 at 02:50 AM

MSC
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p.1 #22 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

I'll add two more to make the point about stable tripods and sturdy ballheads....these two were taken with a cable as a huge thunderstorm was rolling it. It was extemely windy, the wind was shifting dramatically from moment to moment, and started to pour just after I took the pics...these are not super long exposures 3 and 6 secs, but there was zero vibration in the camera. Any tripod will work, but the better ones work when the conditions are less than ideal. And that would include in the rain too, or standing in a river or snow, etc.

Canon EOS-1Ds Mark III 20 mm f/14.0 6 sec 100 ISO 0.0 EV

Nov 06, 2009 at 03:30 AM

sjms
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p.1 #23 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

ok here is my 2 cents: gitzo GT2540ex (explorer) w/BH40

This image is copyrighted by the owner

10s f/11.0 at 24.0mm iso200
D700 w/14-24 f2.8
the registry hall at Ellis Island during a private event

this is where the rubber meets the road

i moved away from the basic arca swiss design because i much preferred the RRS BH setup. i have a BH55 and a BH40. previous heads owned. AS B1(2 yrs), Acratech Ultimate (3 months), Markins M10 (8 years and still have it. semi-retired)

Nov 08, 2009 at 02:34 AM

bpham
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p.1 #24 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

sjms,

Your picture is also very sharp and beautiful. I just visited Ellis Island last month!

I'm about to order the Gitzo and suddenly I realize that the 25xx Mountaineer series has 2531 and 2541. The 2531 has a three sectioned legs and the 2531 has the 4 sectioned legs but the 2541 is 22'' folded and the 2531 is 25.6'' folded.

Does the 2531 has less vibration because of 3 section? what about the longer length when folded? May be there is no differences between the two in terms of vibration, in that case then the 2541 is a better choice because of the folded length and also it is lower to the ground when required?

Let me know what you guys think?

THanks.

Nov 08, 2009 at 03:41 AM

sjms
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p.1 #25 · RRS BH-40/Markins M10 or ArcaSwiss Z1 SP

i went with the 4 section explorer for multiple reasons. it is my travel/macro tripod so versatility is the prime need. i have found that with the current design of the gitzo leg locks there is little descernable difference between the 3 and 4 section models as far as support and potential for vib. now mine is part of the explorer series and has the infinitely adjustable legs angles along with the articulated center post. i am basically showing that certain 2nd source components may not be totally necessary

as to the shot it was taken just last month

Nov 08, 2009 at 03:49 AM


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