peter_n wrote:
I'm using more than one Acratech and my only RRS ballhead is a BH-55, which you're familiar with. The BH-55 is a large ballhead and the Acratechs are medium sized. The ball diameter of the BH-55 is 55mm and the ball diameter of the Acratechs is 38mm. The Acratechs can have a base diameter of either 53mm or 60mm.
I also rate Acratechs highly, like the BH-55 they are very well made and durable. I live in New England so like Kent above I need a ballhead that works in our cold winters. Additionally I live near the sea and sand/salt spray doesn't affect them, you just run them under a faucet and dry them off and they're ready to go. They're basically maintenance free.
They are very light in weight and have built-in leveling capability, it's great to have that on a travel tripod. I chose Acratech over the RRS medium sized models because I don't like the design of the ball locking knob which is a lever. That's a personal preference as I know they're very good heads, but I've found the leveling capability of the Acratechs to be extremely useful.
I really wouldn't use the term "lever" as it is sort of misleading. in the case of usage the BH30 and 40 use a paddle shaped knob for control of the ball locking. it functions the same as a round knob and a bit more. for me personally I prefer its design. the paddle can be pulled out on its captive spring loaded shaft and repositioned around its axis w/o unlocking the ball itself at multiple points. its rather unique shape give one a definitive "this is the main knob" feel. if I could have it fitted to my BH55 I go that way too.
many years ago I first purchased an Acratech Ultimate. I visually stunning look in a ballhead. after about 1.5 mons of use I found it did not agree with me overall. the newer GP series heads are better but because of the basic "harp" support they are light but higher volumetric sizing. so overall compactness in design it is not. they do have a newer model slightly more compact model called the nomad.
resistance to the weather: both manufacturers use materials that are highly corrosion resistant such as Anodized Al alloy, bronze, Stainless Steel. both take abuse well.
as is said its a personal thing
Apr 06, 2017 at 12:06 AM
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