RRS BH-40 or Acratech GV2?

[mddpics]

Hi All,

I see this has been discussed to some degree but wanted to hear from those using the BH-40 and VG2 in the field. I have no problems if the moderator wants to move this to a more appropriate thread vs a new one.

I’m trying to decide between an Acratech GV2 and the RRS BH-40. I have them both here and will return one, or maybe both as both have features I like and don’t like (I’ll point those out below).

I tend to shoot mostly outdoors so I wanted something that can take a bit of a beating (dust, sand, weather, etc.) and is easy to maintain. However, I also want something that is precise and locks down in the position I want. Does a single ballhead address both of these desires or must I choose one over the other?

Bear in mind, I am not a pro but think I have enough experience for this basic comparison. I used a Bogen 3021 as they tripod for my observations.

This is not mean to be a all inclusive/comprehensive review, just my take, based on spending about 10-15 minutes trying out each ball head. Also, my observations are my opinion or results of what I experienced. I’ll do my best to leave opinions out. I won’t list the specs as they are readily available at the respective manufactures sites. I paid a few dollars more for the RSS but that is not an issue for this comparison.

Here goes:
Really Right Stuff BH-40

Pros: Precision build, compact, locks tight, has the spirit level, friction dial is numbered, panning base has a tighter feel to it, has a pouch for travel/storage

Cons: Controls close together (a little tight for my big hands, but doable), when using the vertical notch, the ‘stem’ made contact with the tripod top plate (however, it deem seem to be right at 90 degrees); the care and feeding instructions are a bit much more than I expected, it seems it may be very easy to foul this head with (dirt or sand), obviously I did not try this. This is one of the opinion things so perhaps it’s not the issue I think it is (I’d love to here from any RRS ball head users on using it in field conditions). I realize in harsh/questionable conditions I can put a plastic bag over the head.

Acratech GV2

Pros: Also a precision build though my nod is towards the BH-40 on this, smooth operation, tall enough to clear the top plate of the 3021, knobs easier to reach and easier on the fingers due to the rubberization (Am I allowed to make new words?), locks tight (see cons), seems like it will be easy to clean as most of the ball surface is exposed.

Cons: When I tighten the ball, there is noticeable creep (if I had to guess, I’d say 2-4 degrees, maybe more) during that action (enough that I have to readjust, even if trying to compensate initially). I don’t know if that is a break in issue or just the way it is. The panning base seems to have less friction; it is either tight or not (perhaps by design for the gamble feature). No storage pouch (though I usually keep my ballhead mounted.

I’m really bothered by the creep and am tempted to return the GV2 for just that reason. Yet, I’d like to know if others are having the same experience or have more experience with ballheads to give me something else to consider. Perhaps with time, I will be able to compensate for the creep on the first try. I have sent an email to Acratech about the creep, I’ll let you know what they reply with.

I want the BH-40 for the zero creep, but want the GV2 for is easier to maintain ball. I think I know the answer just need some help, please. Keeping both is not an option at his time.

I’m sorry this got so long but I look forward to your thoughts and opinions.

Mike

[bigman606]

You don't mention it, but what body/lens combo (and anything else like battery pack) are you using with the ballhead?

[freaking102]

my rrs bh-40 works great, easy to clean (and rarely had to clean). my rrs 40 came with a nice neoprene bag that slips over head and keeps dirt out when not in use. if you keep the bag cinched over head when backpacking, it's unlikely to get dirt in ball head.

[mddpics]

Thanks for the replies. I appreciate it.

bigman606
When I was trying them out I was using my 300 f/4 IS (using the tripod ring) and 20D.

freaking102
I’m glad you like he BH-40, I am leaning towards keeping it as I like that it locks where I position it. Good point about the bag.

All
Any other thoughts, experiences with these heads?

[RichNY]

I hate to make the decision more confusing rather than simpler but if you are looking for a top ballhead you should really consider the Markin Q3 or 20. They have the same quality, can support the same weight, and are a fraction of the weight.

[mddpics]

Hi RichNY
How’s it going?

Yes, that does add to the mix but I’ll check it out. They all have to seem their pros and cons.

With the Q3 it would seem I’d never have to get a ‘bigger’ head.

And just when I was thinking about getting the BH-40 with the QR lever. I have the one with the traditional arca swiss knob.

[jacobsen1]

Originally Posted by RichNY

you should really consider the Markin Q3 or 20. They have the same quality, can support the same weight, and are a fraction of the weight.

They're not a fraction of the acratech... The acratech is listed at 1lb. It's actually a bit under that. The Q3 is 13oz and the 20 is over a pound. So the Q3 is marginally lighter (you'd have to way them on the same scale to get an honest difference) and the 20 is heavier...

Beyond that I owned the RRS BH-40 and sold it for the Acratech V1. The V1 is a much better head and I've never had any creep issues with up to a 1DmII and 70~200mm f/2.8 with a 2.0 TC... Not sure if your creep issue is with the GV2 or that particular head... I love my acratech because it's so light and so simple. I've never had any dust/dirt issues with it, but I did with the BH-40. I bring my tripod on boats and I'm around saltwater/sand all the time, so the enclosed ball of the BH-40 was no good for me. Yes I covered it all the time, but it would inevitably get something in it. I've yet to have anything get into the acratech in a longer usage period and it's never been covered (BTW if you like that cover, it's just an Op Tech neoprene cover silk screened with the RRS logo, you can order them via B&H plain for the acratech if you like it).

Personally the V1 still is not perfect for me. The simplistic design with the 45 degree diagonal "vise" is a bit annoying at times. It prevents a vertical tilt at times unless you pan the base. I never use (or very rarely) the drop outs because I use an L plate, so I'd prefer the V2 or GV2's design. That's why you see the V1 for sale in my signature... With this issue I still prefer it to the BH-40, I just know the V2 or GV2 will be even better for me. I also didn't like the friction setting on the BH-40 because each lens I had needed something different, so I was using it with just the main knob. At that point why bother with spending the extra money?

[canonpink]

I don't have the RRS 40, but I have the 55 and I highly recommend it. You will be pleased with its ease of use and build.

[RichNY]

Originally Posted by jacobsen1

They're not a fraction of the acratech... The acratech is listed at 1lb. It's actually a bit under that. The Q3 is 13oz and the 20 is over a pound. So the Q3 is marginally lighter (you'd have to way them on the same scale to get an honest difference) and the 20 is heavier...

You are correct. When I was doing my research I was comparing the RRS BH55 to the Markin 20.

Have you tried or considered the M20 for your needs?

[jacobsen1]

Originally Posted by RichNY

You are correct. When I was doing my research I was comparing the RRS BH55 to the Markin 20.

Have you tried or considered the M20 for your needs?

Nope. I'm around too much sand and salt to have anything but an open ball... I love the acratech, I just need someone to buy the V1 so I can get the GV2 or at least V2 which seem to be perfect for what I need.

[mddpics]

Thanks all. I appreciate the info. Especially the detailed observations, Ben. Seems to not be a clear winner as I am around sand and saltwater as well but want something that locks down in the position I want it. I still need to get in touch with Acratech, perhaps I got a faulty ballhead.

I’ll let you know what I decide.

[Cathpah]

I would say creep in a ballhead of that price is just unnacceptable. I had a bit of creep with my old manfrotto 488 ballhead and it just made me crazy.

my markins m10 works perfectly, and has stayed quite clean in the last 9.5 months of me travelling around S and SE asia (which certainly involves sand, dust, mud, etc.)

[jacobsen1]

Originally Posted by mddpics

Thanks all. I appreciate the info. Especially the detailed observations, Ben. Seems to not be a clear winner as I am around sand and saltwater as well but want something that locks down in the position I want it. I still need to get in touch with Acratech, perhaps I got a faulty ballhead.

I’ll let you know what I decide.

thanks as I'm curious as to what the issue is... I've not had any issue with mine but it's a different model... But I want the GV2 you're having issues with...

I wonder if it has something to do with the second knob they have? Could that not be tight enough that you can't get the pressure you need no matter how tight you get the second knob?

the picture is from the wrong side, but see the 2 silver bits? They're the back of the knobs. The one on the right has the rubber main knob on it. The one on the left is the one I'm wondering it it's too lose? I don't know, but it might be worth a try...

[mddpics]

The ‘creep’ I’m experiencing is when I position the camera, then tighten the main know. While I am tightening the main knob the camera position shifts noticeably to the right. I’m pretty new to ballheads so perhaps this is normal (but it doubt it). However, since I’m not hearing of this issue from other Acratech users I may have a faulty item or I’m doing something wrong. I wish I had a Markins Q3 to tryout (it’s good to hear your Markins m10 did well on your SE Asia trip, Cathpah).

I’m calling Acratech tomorrow, could not get to it today to see if they have any ideas.

Thanks all, I appreciate your input.

[labbai]

I have the RRS BH-55 and It has never failed me. I secure it from dust and whatever comes to me (the pouch) when I'm on the road. Works fine when needed. The GV2 looks like it is more unsecure for the field work. I don't know... too good looking perhaps? Anyway, BH-40 is for lighter equipment, but BH-55 is for the big hands. Works fine with your gloves on and doesn't freeze at winter. I think the BH-40 is as superior too. But it is what you need, i quess... All that matters is the way you need to use some equipment. Or something like that. Im from Finland, so excuse my language.