Help with ballheads

[cgw120 145]

Ill be using a 70-300, d7000, sb700, grip maybe.

The CT114 is load rated at around 17 1/2 lbs(8kg). Do the math for your kit. Something like the Manfroto 498 has the same load max rating(8kg). I you want/need a higher load max, you're looking at a heavier tripod/head combo. Your D7000-based kit isn't exactly heavy. If anything, I'd pay at least as much attention to the size and surface area of the QR plate. It's possible to have a large-ish head and small plate that slips more than a smaller head with a large plate. The surface area difference between a Manfrotto RC2 and RC4 or older hex plate isn't minor.

My kit weight's is 3kg, exaggerating a bit. So 3 kg x 1,5 = 4,5 kg.

According to the rule, 5kg max load would be fine. But im not sure if Ill get any benefits if I go with 8kg. Would it be overkill?

I dont plan to upgrade either.

Have you had the chance to play with these? I'd go with the CT114 or any other quality tripod you like rated for 8kg. Benefits? Greater stability without backbreaking weight or awkward size when collapsed. That's the same load capacity of the Manfrotto 055 I use for medium format.

Not to complicate things further but how tall are you? Factor that into your decision. You'll want something that will put your camera at eye level without more than about 4-5 inches of center post extension.

"I dont plan to upgrade either." Famous last words...

 

[sneak3]

Im 5,9 ft (1,79m). Ok you convinced me, im going with the 8 kg CT114.

Now just have to find the right ballhead within my ~ $ 100 budget...

 

[cgw120 145]

Im 5,9 ft (1,79m). Ok you convinced me, im going with the 8 kg CT114.

Now just have to find the right ballhead within my ~ $ 100 budget...

Look at Manfrotto. Perhaps a bit pricier but proven tough and fixable with standard size QR plates. Not a fan of look-a-like knock-off ballheads. Manfrotto heads are always available used, too.

 

[sneak3]

Im 5,9 ft (1,79m). Ok you convinced me, im going with the 8 kg CT114.

Now just have to find the right ballhead within my ~ $ 100 budget...

Look at Manfrotto. Perhaps a bit pricier but proven tough and fixable with standard size QR plates. Not a fan of look-a-like knock-off ballheads. Manfrotto heads are always available used, too.

Most reviews Ive read state that the giottos MH1301/1302 are better options over the 498RC2. They are also arca-swiss compatible. Im not sure though.