Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/09/23
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]
In a message dated 9/22/98 5:58:37 PM EST, lucien@ubi.edu writes:
> LUGers,
>
> Do you have experience with the Arca-Swiss mono ball B1
> and also with Really Right Stuff ?
>
> Thank you in advance,
>
> Lucien
The B1 head is a masterpiece but it will
hold a 600mm f/4 on a motorized SLR, so if you only want something for the M,
it's more than you need. Kirk Enterprises sells a Kaiser Backpacker ballhead
which they convert to an Arca-style quick release. This on a Gitzo 026 makes
a nice, compact, light package for the M. It's only waist-high without
raising the (somewhat wimpy) center column, but it's very sturdy. Kirk also
sell a complete line of mounting plates, including one for the M which is
identical to the RRS plate. Unlike RRS, Kirk also take credit cards and have
a toll-free 1-800 number. They also sell the Arca-style clamps that you can
convert (permanently or temporarily) any head. I often use a Leitz ballhead
(one with dual 1/4" and 3/8" bottom threads, and a removable Arca clamp, along
with the 026 and a Leitz table-pod, for maximum versatility.
Jay