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View Full Version : Ball Head: Markins Q3T or BH40?

colbyb25
14th of October 2009 (Wed), 12:06
My current ballhead just isn't cutting it, damn cheap Smith ballheads. I am looking at keeping my setup lightweight and have narrowed it down to these two. I have my RRS PCL-1 on all the time, so I don't need a plate, which atleast cuts some costs down with the BH-40.

Any thoughts between the two? Not happy about spending almost $300 so let me know if you have any other ideas....
tvphotog
14th of October 2009 (Wed), 12:49
The Q3t is excellent in my estimation. It alrealy has a pano base, so you're duplicating things there. But the base has no flange, so the legs of a 180 degree reversing tripod will sit closely to it.
jhom
14th of October 2009 (Wed), 12:50
If your tripod legs fold upwards, then you will want a ballhead that allows this feature.
colbyb25
14th of October 2009 (Wed), 12:54
I currently have a SLIK PRO 714CF II tripod that I love and that has worked for me since I travel so much for photography.

http://www.adorama.com/SLCF714.html
ben_r_
14th of October 2009 (Wed), 13:48
Markins def the way to go IMO!
argyle
15th of October 2009 (Thu), 06:56
The Q3t is excellent in my estimation. It alrealy has a pano base, so you're duplicating things there. But the base has no flange, so the legs of a 180 degree reversing tripod will sit closely to it.

The PCL-1 is more than a panning base...it's also a leveling base. With this, no need to adjust each leg individually to level things out for a pano when on uneven terrain. Let's you level your rig in a matter of just a few seconds. I wouldn't leave it attached 100% though...adds too much weight if you're not intending to shoot panos. I carry mine along only when I think I'll need it.
Wilt
15th of October 2009 (Thu), 10:33
For what set of legs? Keep in mind the relative balance affected by weight of the head.
agphotography
21st of October 2009 (Wed), 02:01
I was looking at markins, but I didn't want to have to pay so much to get the size of ball-head I was looking for (M20)

I heard about photo-clam (stupid name, I know) over at www.reallybigcameras.com and I was very pleased with what I got. I bought the PC-44NS, it's very stable, easily locks down with all of my lenses. works beautifully with all Arca-type plates. I figured it's a win-win. Especially since it's a good deal cheaper than the markins. (In this case, cheaper doesn't mean P.O.S.)