Friction control becomes more important when you switch between various weight classes of bodies and lenses.
The GH-1382 TQD with no friction-control, is a very compact (small) head, specifically designed to fit between the folded legs of Gitzos' smallest Traveller tripods,,, the 0 and 1 series Travellers.
Ming-Tzu wrote:
Not sure if I'm thinking of the same thing but don't think I need friction control. I use the BH-30 head and there isn't a separate knob to control friction, and don't mind it actually. Maybe I'm missing out on something but is the friction control knob simply to control the movement of the ball head when loosening the main knob, so that the camera doesn't flop hard? If so, I find that I can use hold the camera with one hand and loosen the main knob without friction control.
I care mostly about stability for long exposures so maybe the GH1382TQD should be considered?
Also looking at Gitzo 0545 vs 1555. Depends on price but 0545 looks appealing, maybe paired with the GH1382TQD or a BH-25
Bobarino wrote:
For me, that would be a minor detail, The lock knob on the Gitzo is very smoothe and precise. Far more important for me is the ability to pan smoothly,, and the excellent friction control which prevents droop when composing/framing your shots. Personally, I think that's a big deal.
Ming-Tzu wrote:
Thanks!
Not sure if I'm a fan of the screw in knob to tighten the camera onto the plate. I know the Leofoto head has that too. I'm used to my RRS ballhead with the lever.
The Gitzo head is pricey though at like 400, unless I can find a deal. On the other hand, the Leofoto + ballhead + optional center column is like low 200s brand new. Both heads seem to get good reviews, at least from what I can see on the b&h site reviews.
