| Latest Review Posted | Acratech GP and GP-s
The new generation of folding 'traveler' style tripods from Gitzo, Benro etc. require a smaller head to achieve minimum size, and several companies have produced Traveler heads, including the Q-Ball, PhotoClam and now the Acratech GP-s.
The GP-s is a beautifully machined piece of aluminum art that just oozes quality. The non-lubricated open ball design was key for me, as my tripod spends a lot of time exposed to the elements on the side of my pack (and getting dropped in the dirt). The Q-Ball and PhotoClam use enclosed ballhead designs, which require cleaning and lubrication, which can then attract dirt and grim.
The panoramic option is unique and works well. Conversion takes two minutes with the provided Allen key. This leads me to one of my peeves: the bolts are non-metric - 5/16"! If you live anywhere but the US be sure you don't jam a metric Allen key in there.
Most of Acratech's competitors have gone to a quick-release style plate system, but the GP-s uses their quick clamp bolt. Since Acratech's clamp will open and close with only a half-turn, I can't see a Q/R working any faster, and I suspect the bolt will be more reliable (we wear out a lot of Q/R's in the bike biz, but we stress them a lot more). All of the controls are coated in rubber for comfort in cold weather.
The real test of a Traveler head is whether is fits a Traveler tripod. The main difference between the GP and the GP-s is the smaller diameter of the base, and indeed the folded legs o... |
