Originally posted by bdery Advice about Gitzo and RRS is fine, but clearly not what you're looking for...
I have a (stronger) ballhead from Vanguard dating from around the same era yours is, and love it, it's well made and reliable.
However, in 2019 my recommendation for a ballhead is to look at Sirui. their products have an excellent balance of price vs performances. Within your budget, the K10x will be stronger and more reliable than the one you linked to.
Thanks for the input. I will take a look at the Sirui.
---------- Post added 09-13-2019 at 04:25 PM ----------
Originally posted by TER-OR I have one of the pistol grip ballheads, it has a connector for the camera trigger cord, which is really convenient. Quality seems quite good.
Cool thanks. Have not thought about a pistol grip. Will have to think about that.
Originally posted by Oldbayrunner I owned the Vanguards and they are decent but I've been partial to using Manfrotto for the past few years. Right now there is a really good deal on Adorama for the Manfrotto MHXPRO-BHQ6- XPRO with a Platypod Pro Max Plate, with a mail in rebate works out to $219.00
[URL="https://www.adorama.com/bgmhxpbhq6a.html?"]
The MXHPRO does get good reviews.
Originally posted by Alex645 I've bought and used Vanguard branded tripod legs and heads and have found them to be above average in quality. Factor in the price and they are one of the best.
Is a 44 lbs support weight overkill with your 400mm and K5IIs? Yes and no. Yes, you could get a cheaper, lighter head that supports a third of that weight, but it won't be as solidly secure than a better head like the Vanguard TBH-250.
Ball heads are inherently less secure than most other head types, so if you want the convenience of the ball head, getting a stronger model is wise.
Good point. I have been checking the weight on the ball heads, but maybe a little heavier is better. Would still be in the range for my tripod.
Thanks