Ballhead recommendations for 100-400mm + 7d gripped

Currently using: Manfrotto 3001BN tripod + 700RC2 head

Can anyone recommend a ballhead in the range of $80-$200? I really don't want to go all-out on something like the $400+ bh-40/55.

My $250 rig was fine for a t2i + 70-200mm f/4 IS, but my gripped 7d + 100-400mm lens is overkill. Any angle not parallel to the ground and down it goes... only designed to handle 5 pounds anyhow. Moon shots are simply impossible with my 700rc2...


TIA

Have you had a look at something like the Manfrotto 498 + RC2?

Jim G wrote in post #10798491
Have you had a look at something like the Manfrotto 498 + RC2?

Hmm, 18# capacity... maybe I'll give that one a look--rather cheap by comparison. Thanks for the suggestion.

I used the Manfrotto 488 with that combo and it was fine.

I use a Markins M20, it's one amazing ball head

Jim G wrote in post #10798491
Have you had a look at something like the Manfrotto 498 + RC2?

+1 for this - While I don't have the grip, I have the 7D + 100-400 + 1.4x TC. Using the tripod ring on the 100-400 its rock solid.

Daniel