Is Gitzo2540 and RRS BH40 perfect match?

I think this is my choice.

m

marysia wrote in post #3820431
I think this is my choice.

m

I would question whether the BH-40 has the tension control of the Markins ball heads. Someone that has one might comment. Still, nice stuff. Overall a very nice pairing.

Stew

Yes, I am very impressed with Markins ballheads. I was originally planning to go with Q3 or M10 but finally decided that I do not want to pay for Markins ballhead and then have to replace QR clamp (you cannot get it without the clamp) with RRS QR clamp and plates. It becomes a lot more expensive pleasure,

m

marysia wrote in post #3820550
Yes, I am very impressed with Markins ballheads. I was originally planning to go with Q3 or M10 but finally decided that I do not want to pay for Markins ballhead and then have to replace QR clamp (you cannot get it without the clamp) with RRS QR clamp and plates. It becomes a lot more expensive pleasure,

m

Unless you need the QR lever clamp that RSS has there is no reason to replace the clamp. Lots has been made in this forum of the convenience this allows. Depending on your style of photography either can be quite effective.

Stew

And the RSS is 4 oz. more weight than Q3.

Stew

squiress wrote in post #3820719
Unless you need the QR lever clamp that RSS has there is no reason to replace the clamp.
Stew

Don't I need RRS QR lever clamp if I want to get their L bracket?

m

Given the way AS clamp systems work, I don't think so. However if you are going to the additional expense for an L plate system, I'm sure it will make it easier to use. Sticking 100% RRS at that point makes sense. As I said, your pairing really is very nice.

Stew

Marysia -

This is a great combination. There were made for each other (literally). I have the 1258 (precursor to the 2540) with the BH40 and like it very much.

That said, I also have a Markins M20 on a 3540LS and I've come to like that more. The only detriment to the Markins is that their panning lock is not as firm as the RRS. If I were to do it again, I might consider the Q3 or the M10 instead. The friction control is better, the ball moves smoother, the lock is more positive and absolutely positively doesn't move when locked etc...

But, like I said, the BH40 is quite excellent.

I would recommend that whichever you choose, make sure to get a QR Lever grip on the ballhead. You can order the Markins without a clamp and then order the clamp directly from RRS. IMO, no ballhead should be without a good QR lever clamp.

J.

I second your choice. Although I don't have the Gitzo, I have a Giottos CF tripod and the BH-55 with the quick release, plates, etc... and am done with tripods and ballheads for good now. I can focus on other things at this point knowing the camera is sitting on something firm and well built.

CP

Thank you guys,

I am just trying not to continue making mistakes which cost me money. Getting RRS so I can continue with one brand for future additions.

Started two years ago with what I thought was good system. Since then replaced 50 mm f/1.8 with 50 mm f/1.4, 70-200 mm f/4 with 70-200 f2.8, bought too many too count bags, and now I am replacing tripod/ballhead combo.

I do hope that GT2540 + BH40 will be good for long while. The last thing I will need will be Wimberly Sidekick. LAST QUESTION: Will it be compatible with BH40? Or will I have to be getting another kind of clamp?

John,

I checked on Markins website and you cannot get M10 without the clamp. So, I would be paying for clamp there and again at RRS. This is why I decided to go with RRS BH40. Plus because of better panning lock at RRS and L plate.
Anyway, I really REALLY wanted to justify getting Markins, since they have so excellent reviews and are lighter! but it did not work this way.

Thanks again for all your advices. All knowledge and help I get from this forum is just great.

m

Either way a good choice.

I'm pretty sure you can. Just call Markins. I had this discussion about them on the Q3 a month ago and they were fine with it even though it isn't on their website.

J

Great choice - love mine - 1257 (older version of the Gitzo you mention) and the BH-40 is a work of art

Here is some more good news. If you get heavier in gear and need the BH-55, the BH-40's resale value will probably be around 90% since the BH-40 would do for probably 95% of shooters out there.

I'm not sure you are saying this, but you wouldn't want the BH55 on the 2540. It would be too big, IMO. The 2540/BH40 combination is just right.

J

JohnJ80 wrote in post #3827147
I'm not sure you are saying this, but you wouldn't want the BH55 on the 2540. It would be too big, IMO. The 2540/BH40 combination is just right.

J

This brings up one of the issues associated with buying once for life. This is a perfect series and mount combination for OPs current and near future needs. The previous poster says when ready, that BH-55 is a great next step. Certainly the resale value of the RSS or any great mount will be better than lesser equipment (the Gitzos too), but your current tripod and mount will most likely be replaced one day. The one 2 series tripod is limited compared a 1 and 3 series combination. The process here remains complicated.

Stew