Feisol Tripod & Photoclam ball head

Jdmhood wrote in post #9816249
So you're saying even the PC-74NS fits the CT-3442 without a hitch?

Without the centre column I'm pretty sure yeah, although I'll admit I haven't held that ballhead in my hands yet. That main base plate is pretty large so I can't see why it would be a problem. Only for the smaller centre column base would there be issues.

The 3442 has a massive base.

MrGreen wrote in post #9816605
Without the centre column I'm pretty sure yeah, although I'll admit I haven't held that ballhead in my hands yet. That main base plate is pretty large so I can't see why it would be a problem. Only for the smaller centre column base would there be issues.

I remember talking to Kerry about the largest possible ballhead to fit the CT-3442 and i'm pretty positive that he told me not all will fit.

I couldn't find the email to verify it.. but i did some measurements.

The base on the CT-3442 measures 3-3/16" across.

pc40-ns is a really good ballhead, extremely sturdy. i don't know how well it fits the feisol tripods since i have mine mounted to the gitzo 3541ls. the markins with lever might be a bit easier to operate but it's probably not worth the extra money.

for the size, the 40ns is just about in the middle of the range you're considering (33 to 44). i doubt there will be a noticeable difference between a 40 and 44 since the amount of weight it can take will far exceed your gear weight.

I have the Feisol 3342 and Photoclam PC-44NS. I could not be happier!

The only thing I wish is that I would have known Feisol was planning to come out with the anti-rotating leg versions of their tripods. I would have waited for the new models. But other than that, I am completely satisfied.

golf88 wrote in post #9820273
pc40-ns is a really good ballhead, extremely sturdy. i don't know how well it fits the feisol tripods since i have mine mounted to the gitzo 3541ls. the markins with lever might be a bit easier to operate but it's probably not worth the extra money.

for the size, the 40ns is just about in the middle of the range you're considering (33 to 44). i doubt there will be a noticeable difference between a 40 and 44 since the amount of weight it can take will far exceed your gear weight.

Yeah, i think the 40ns would be perfect for op. I'm not not sure what his future gear plans are. Here's an excerpt from an email between me and Kerry @ ReallyBigCameras.

Should help him with his decisions.

John,

The Photo Clam PC-40N/NS would be a great match for your current gear,
and would be adequate with a 300mm f4. If you are looking at a 300mm
f2.8, or plan to use a teleconverter with a 300mm f4, I'd recommend
buying the larger PC-44NS. Both ballheads fit within the reverse folded
legs of the CT-3442. The Markins Q3T kind of fits. The pan locking
knob makes contact with the metal housing at the top of one of the legs
and leaves a blemish at this point of contact.

Kerry Thalmann
Really Big Cameras
http://reallybigcamera​s.com

Edit: The info about the Markins Q3T isn't correct since this email originated before the Q3T refresh.