Thanks for sharing your opinions of the BH-40. Initially, I was also going to buy one. However, I did not understand why RRS used a mini clamp in the standard version. Now, I understand the reasoning. Since I had two of the B2 Pro clamps already, I decided that the Manfrotto 468MG was a better deal for me. Also, I had had excellent results with the clamp on a 488. Given various factors such as load rating, size, clamp, design, and cost, I ultimately chose the 468MG/B2 Pro II combination. Also, Thomas's glowing comments on the head sealed the deal. In my opinion, this combination is probably the best bang for the buck.
What should be interesting is that combo on the Velbon Sherpa Pro 531EL that I'm buying with it for a lightweight tripod kit to go with my Slingshot 200, a far lighter setup than my Nature trekker with 055pro+468!
My only concern is stability, I would have that concern with any tripod that light (including the Gitzo 1228 I was playing with today, I hated the leg locks).
I know how the RRS QR clamp and L plate handles, I had one for my 10D and 1Ds, it's a absolute pleasure to use in the field. My main complaint with the 468 was the number of twists to lock and the weight.
I wanted to get the Gitzo 1227(11257) for its all-round ability and gold standard rating but I ended up (happily) getting the 1228 (1258) as it will fit in my suitcase.
I would recommend the carbon-fibre over the basalt if you can possibly afford it then you need only spend your money once!
Do check out the height of the tripod as well, especially NOT extended (for stability) - they can vary quite a bit....
Beni wrote:
My main complaint with the 468 was the number of twists to lock and the weight.
The 468 only needs about 1/2 to 3/4 turn of the knob to solidly lock the ball. I still have to get used to that coming from a 488 that needed several full turns before it was locked. At about 1.4 lbs for the combination, I don't think it is at all heavy. But, I don't do alot of hiking or travelling with it.
By the way, how do you like the Slingshot? I am considering one for my 1D2. Will it hold a 1D2 with a 24-70L attached? Will a 70-200L fit in the bag unattached?
"My main complaint with the 468 was the number of twists to lock and the weight."
With a 468MG, it takes about a half to three quarters of a turn to get positive lock and with a RRS lever clamp, you're looking at about 1.4pounds or 637g.
If it's anything like the 488, you can crank and crank and crank that ma-ther, stop, talk about it and give it another twist
As jhom suggested, it takes a bit of getting used as to the throw of the 468MG cause it's both short and positive. Wow!
You really do have to check yourself as you can't believe what you're feeling and seeing as you want to crank on it some more cause that's what you're used to
This thread has been a great help. After reconsidering my options yet again I'm thinking the 468MG is really looking like the obvious choice. The BH-55 seems nice but isn't really what I was looking for. I probably could even do with a 488 for the 400 5.6 but the 468 will give me a little room to grow if I ever rent/buy a 300 2.8 and don't want to carry the full head with me. Still hoping to try a few in person but I definitely know what I'm looking for.
jhom:"Thanks for sharing your opinions of the BH-40. Initially, I was also going to buy one. However, I did not understand why RRS used a mini clamp in the standard version. Now, I understand the reasoning."
jhom, I am afraid that a smaller clamp is not a sollution, it's really the neck of the ball that is about 10mm to short...I consider it as a serious flaw.
suba: "I wanted to get the Gitzo 1227(11257) for its all-round ability and gold standard rating but I ended up (happily) getting the 1228 (1258) as it will fit in my suitcase"
yep, I am thinking in the same direction like you. Trippods in the range of 50-55cm do fit quite easy in a suitcase, 50cm even in a traveller bag.
It's a bit weard, some say "stay away from basalt trippods" others are happy with it, but it is an over 200 euro difference.
RedRebel: I have heard a similar comment from some other user of the BH-40. I guess with a short neck and a large clamp like the B2 Pro II, the BH-40 would look rather odd. Maybe we should nickname the BH-40 "No Neck."
jhom: I ordered the B2 Pro II because of the spirit level and its only has a jaw of 60mm instead of the 50mm of the mini's... The other sizes are equal. However the mini's are not listed in their catalog. It would not make to much of a difference, since any clamp on the BH 40 (and I think also on the BH 55) wil hit the housing at the point were the control knobs are located (where the housing is splitted).
So I would call the BH 40 "Handicapped Fatboy Junior" and the BH 55 "Handicapped Fatboy"
Edited by RedRebel on Nov 30, 2005 at 11:32 AM GMT (Reason: other try with pic, does not work)
Edited by RedRebel on Nov 30, 2005 at 11:47 AM GMT
Yeah so change of plans... It looks like I'm heading home for the holidays and won't have much time to shop around between now and then. So... B&H shipped my order this afternoon . Thanks guys, one 468MGR0 on it's way (and of course some other xmas goodies like a Kata backpack).
You're gonna find that this sucker is like a sports car because the clamping action is so short and positive; like a tight, fine tuned sportscar suspension that takes your breath away.
Well maybe not take your breath away as that takes more that a few G's but you get the point.
I've gotten several PM recently asking which 468MG to get. If you are going to add a RRS clamp and not use the stock RC platform, then buy the 468MG. It is $10 less than the 468MGRC2 and $30 less than the 468MGRC0 (based on B&H prices). Also, the 468MG is held on to the ball with a screw that is easily removed with an allen wrench.
Well back to work...
Unfortunately, your picture didn't post correctly...Can you repost...I would like to see "junior." 