The Professional's Source
800.606.6969 / 212.444.6615
Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release System - Supports 20 lbs (9 kg)
The Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release System is a medium-sized "socket & ball" head that has been carefully designed and manufactured to precisely position the camera easily and securely.
In order to cut back on its weight, this head features a hollowed out heavily anodized aluminum ball. The body shell (socket) follows a slimmer and lighter structure design, yet offers increased hardness. Three separate knobs provide optimal security and convenience. In addition to the main locking knob, it also features a friction control knob, and a separate locking knob for pan control.
The attached MH-656 is a clamp style quick release system that is compatible with plates that fit the Arca Swiss standard. It comes with horizontal and vertical bubble levels, and anti-twist reversible tabs on the plate to prevent slippage when using the head in a vertical position.
- Features an independent calibrated pan bed
- Hollowed out ball
- Sliding calibrated quick release plate
| Load Capacity | 20 lbs (9 kg) |
| Height | 4.1" (106 cm) |
| Quick Release | Yes |
| Spirit Level | Yes; horizontal & vertical |
| Tension Control | Yes |
| Separate Panning Lock | Yes |
| Tripod Mount Thread Size | 3/8" (1/4"-20 reducer bushing is provided) |
| Weight | 1.1 lb (516 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 32 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
90%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Large range of motion (22)
- Stable (22)
- Attaches firmly (21)
- Strong clamp (18)
- Compact (5)
Cons
- Weak clamp (3)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (19)
- Night shots (15)
- Portraits (14)
- Travel (10)
- Wildlife (9)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (12), Semi-pro photographer (10), Enthusiast (3), Pro photographer (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (8)
Most Liked Positive Review
Totally Solid and Rugged
I had a tough choice deciding between a 3-axis style head and a ball and socket joint, but I'm glad I chose this one. The range of motion is indisputable especially since I ...Read complete review
I had a tough choice deciding between a 3-axis style head and a ball and socket joint, but I'm glad I chose this one. The range of motion is indisputable especially since I can lock everything down and pivot just on the x-axis (this is really the only axis I ever need to isolate).
I can't stress how important it is to have a sturdy feeling when handling a tripod and actually having a solid construction. It is very "industrial" in the sense that I feel I am handling a "laboratory-grade" product. However, this means that I can't keep the plate attached to my camera at all times since it has very sharp edges and can get easily damaged (or damage surfaces that it makes contact with).
I needed "MH-656 Quick Release System" to allow sliding the camera closer or further away from the subject. (I need this ability to focus with my "Nikon BR-2A Lens Reversing Ring" when doing Macro photography. Otherwise, I would have gone with a simpler MH-300C style plate.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Solid but clumsy
I purchased this head to use in conjunction with a kirk Bl-90 L plate for my D80. This QR system is quite clumsy to use with that format. I have to place the ...Read complete review
I purchased this head to use in conjunction with a kirk Bl-90 L plate for my D80. This QR system is quite clumsy to use with that format. I have to place the L bracket in sidewise in the landscape position because of the little safety screw. Holding the camera in my left hand, the loosening knob has to be turned a full two turns to open fully, then I have swith hands to press the little red button with my left hand to to allow the bracket to insert, then switch again to the left hand to hold the camera while I turn the knob two full turns to tighten, and it does not turn easily. It takes as long to do all that as it is taking to write this review. Hopefully, the knob will loosen up, and I will learn to overlook that part. And it may be no problem at all with the QR plate attached to a camera.
Having said all that, it does appear to be built solidly, and doesn't slip after I set the locking knob. That is the biggest pro of all. All three knobs work fine, and hold fast. Only one other head in the price range, also a Giottos, has a lever type QR device, and apparenty it has some slippage problem, so I will just get used to my thing here and learn to love it...
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 32 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
The Giottos MH-1301 Pro II ballhead is a welcome upgrade from my old inexpensive ballhead. This ballhead is well made with smooth action. Everything about this item feels more secure than my old ballhead. I have not had this item very long. So, I am still learning how to quickly manipulate the controls. I am happy with this purchase.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Weak Clamp
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Travel
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Precise construction and lightweight but the fixing plate isn't do the job is made for.If you loosen to much the vise of the camera plate, it just fell out. So, I don't know why they put a red button as a security from falling off the camera.Also, the second level is under the fixing plate, you have to level before attaching the camera, not very practical for a ballhead support.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Travel
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
The best deal I found yet for a reliable bal head , not too heavy.
Perfect for traveller photograph
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Easy to setup
- Good investment
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- None Yet
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Photo shoots
Great flexibility
None as of yet
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
This is a very intuitive machine. The adjustments are very solid and secure. I don't worry about drift at all.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
I haven't used this head much and the rubber grips wrapped around the knobs are splitting and falling off. 8 months old. Surprising due to the lack of use and gentle care. Wrote to Giottos about it. We'll see what they say. Good Head. It's strong and holds my 70-200 f/4 and my 7D no problem.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Best head I have ever used, very smooth,easy lock and doesn't creep with heavier lenses and speedflash attached...I would highly recommend
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Great ballhead and the quick release is great. I love the levels included that allows for leveling the tripod.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Heavy
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
It is a very sturdy ballhead. I use it on my monopod, and because of it's size and weight rating, I'm able to support heavy glass without the floppy feeling of other monopods. It also gives me quite a bit of room to maneuver. I chose this head because I could also use it on a tripod, as opposed to buying a simple tilt head for my monopod.
The arca type release system is great, but it does take a bit of getting used to. My only gripe is that the plate is a bit short, but you can always get the MH-657 for a longer plate.
It is extremely sturdy, and consequently a bit heavy but I have much more confidence in the head when I put my equipment on it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
Cons
- Poor quality
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
terrible product, the fasten handle breaks!!!
I have never met such a problem before.
Cheap made product. keep away.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Primarily for my 150-500MM Lens I like how well the Lock and Friction control work. The quick release is great. The only con is the plate can be somewhat tricky to attach to the ballhead.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Perfect setup for what i got...5d with 24-70 and 70-200 lenses. Very stable as easy to use...even with extra long night exposures.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Macro Photography
- Travel
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Got this head to use on a Gitzo carbon fiber monopod. My other head is an Acra Tech GV2 on Gitzo tripod. While not in the same class as the GV2, and who would expect it to be, the 1301 operates smoothly and locks tight. Thee have been some complaints about the Giottos mounting plate loosening. All of my cameras have Arca Tech plates attached which fit perfectly and lock tight on the 1301.
At a weight of a little over 1#, the 1301 plus camera and lens on the Gitzo monopod come out a little top heavy. This however, was no surprise and would hardly be a problem on a tripod.
One negative: The 1301 instructions warn that over loosening the friction control can cause a head failure, which will be something to think about when switching from the 1301 to the GV2 and back, as over loosening is not possible on latter. This issue alone, which I view as a design flaw gives the 1301 a 4-star instead of a 5-star.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Works well for outdoor shooting and is easy to set up and use. So far does what it needs to do and is priced well lower than many others that are similar.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
After searching for months I ended up purchasing the MH1301-656 and paired it with the MT-9360 Aluminum Tripod Legs by Giottos. The pair work fantastic together. The 656 is more than enough for what I need and the is smooth, quick, and very stable. It supports my D300 with out a wince. Very well made and built to last.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
For the price, this unit functions wonderfully and seems very well built. It's a little on the heavy side, but with the solid construction, that is to be expected. Currently mated to an Induro aluminum tripod and these two make a great pair.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Bought this with Giottos MT8350 - my first tripod - which is a bit small for this head.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
- Poor camera plate
- Weak Clamp
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
This is probably all the ball head most photo hobbyists will need. Ball movement is smooth and the excellent control knobs are solid and lock down tight, even with a heavy set-up. The head itself deserves 4 stars, but the clamp is just adequate and the camera plate is useable but allows some twist. I found a Markins camera specific plate works much better.
Yes, there are better ball heads out there, but I gave the MH-1301 four stars because you won't find a better ball head unless you pay at least twice as much.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Supplied QR plate
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
- Travel
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
I bought the MH-1301 ballhead to go with a Giottos MT-8361 tripod. It's a good combination and after using it intensively for a month, I have no serious complaints about the MH-1301. I'd buy it again.
The MH-1301 allows standard 3-axis positioning for framing, tension control for how easily the ballhead moves in the socket, and independent horizontal rotation (with degree scale) for panoramas. There's some "break-in" time when first using the MH-1301 as you try to get accustomed to its "feel," but after that, it's easy to use. It supports my Olympus E-3 and 50-200 lens (on the large side) rock steady with no "creep" or shifting at all.
The built-in bull's eye bubble levels are a nice touch, but check how your camera is seated before relying on them exclusively. There is a slight tilt on mine, so I continue to rely on a hot shoe level.
The MH-656 QR plate that came with the MH-1301 was a disappointment. As other reviewers have noted, it did not fasten securely to the camera body, allowing far too much slippage for use in the field. Fortunately, I had ordered a MH-646 QR plate at the same time to use as a spare. The MH-646 does attach very securely to the camera and the QR system itself is simple to operate, so things worked out in the end.
Without the MH-656 QR plate problem, this would be a 5 star review.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Portraits
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
High quality build, adjustments work very smoothly yet holds position well (Nikon D300 with 17-55mm). Ball head provides excellent flexibility for proper framing of shot and this is an extremely well made head.
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 32 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
90%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Large range of motion (22)
- Stable (22)
- Attaches firmly (21)
- Strong clamp (18)
- Compact (5)
Cons
- Weak clamp (3)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (19)
- Night shots (15)
- Portraits (14)
- Travel (10)
- Wildlife (9)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (12), Semi-pro photographer (10), Enthusiast (3), Pro photographer (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (8)
Most Liked Positive Review
Totally Solid and Rugged
I had a tough choice deciding between a 3-axis style head and a ball and socket joint, but I'm glad I chose this one. The range of motion is indisputable especially since I ...Read complete review
I had a tough choice deciding between a 3-axis style head and a ball and socket joint, but I'm glad I chose this one. The range of motion is indisputable especially since I can lock everything down and pivot just on the x-axis (this is really the only axis I ever need to isolate).
I can't stress how important it is to have a sturdy feeling when handling a tripod and actually having a solid construction. It is very "industrial" in the sense that I feel I am handling a "laboratory-grade" product. However, this means that I can't keep the plate attached to my camera at all times since it has very sharp edges and can get easily damaged (or damage surfaces that it makes contact with).
I needed "MH-656 Quick Release System" to allow sliding the camera closer or further away from the subject. (I need this ability to focus with my "Nikon BR-2A Lens Reversing Ring" when doing Macro photography. Otherwise, I would have gone with a simpler MH-300C style plate.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Solid but clumsy
I purchased this head to use in conjunction with a kirk Bl-90 L plate for my D80. This QR system is quite clumsy to use with that format. I have to place the ...Read complete review
I purchased this head to use in conjunction with a kirk Bl-90 L plate for my D80. This QR system is quite clumsy to use with that format. I have to place the L bracket in sidewise in the landscape position because of the little safety screw. Holding the camera in my left hand, the loosening knob has to be turned a full two turns to open fully, then I have swith hands to press the little red button with my left hand to to allow the bracket to insert, then switch again to the left hand to hold the camera while I turn the knob two full turns to tighten, and it does not turn easily. It takes as long to do all that as it is taking to write this review. Hopefully, the knob will loosen up, and I will learn to overlook that part. And it may be no problem at all with the QR plate attached to a camera.
Having said all that, it does appear to be built solidly, and doesn't slip after I set the locking knob. That is the biggest pro of all. All three knobs work fine, and hold fast. Only one other head in the price range, also a Giottos, has a lever type QR device, and apparenty it has some slippage problem, so I will just get used to my thing here and learn to love it...
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 32 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
The Giottos MH-1301 Pro II ballhead is a welcome upgrade from my old inexpensive ballhead. This ballhead is well made with smooth action. Everything about this item feels more secure than my old ballhead. I have not had this item very long. So, I am still learning how to quickly manipulate the controls. I am happy with this purchase.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
- Weak Clamp
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Travel
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Precise construction and lightweight but the fixing plate isn't do the job is made for.If you loosen to much the vise of the camera plate, it just fell out. So, I don't know why they put a red button as a security from falling off the camera.Also, the second level is under the fixing plate, you have to level before attaching the camera, not very practical for a ballhead support.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Travel
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
The best deal I found yet for a reliable bal head , not too heavy.
Perfect for traveller photograph
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Easy to setup
- Good investment
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- None Yet
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Photo shoots
Great flexibility
None as of yet
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
This is a very intuitive machine. The adjustments are very solid and secure. I don't worry about drift at all.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
I haven't used this head much and the rubber grips wrapped around the knobs are splitting and falling off. 8 months old. Surprising due to the lack of use and gentle care. Wrote to Giottos about it. We'll see what they say. Good Head. It's strong and holds my 70-200 f/4 and my 7D no problem.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Best head I have ever used, very smooth,easy lock and doesn't creep with heavier lenses and speedflash attached...I would highly recommend
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Great ballhead and the quick release is great. I love the levels included that allows for leveling the tripod.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Heavy
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
It is a very sturdy ballhead. I use it on my monopod, and because of it's size and weight rating, I'm able to support heavy glass without the floppy feeling of other monopods. It also gives me quite a bit of room to maneuver. I chose this head because I could also use it on a tripod, as opposed to buying a simple tilt head for my monopod.
The arca type release system is great, but it does take a bit of getting used to. My only gripe is that the plate is a bit short, but you can always get the MH-657 for a longer plate.
It is extremely sturdy, and consequently a bit heavy but I have much more confidence in the head when I put my equipment on it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
Cons
- Poor quality
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
terrible product, the fasten handle breaks!!!
I have never met such a problem before.
Cheap made product. keep away.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Primarily for my 150-500MM Lens I like how well the Lock and Friction control work. The quick release is great. The only con is the plate can be somewhat tricky to attach to the ballhead.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Perfect setup for what i got...5d with 24-70 and 70-200 lenses. Very stable as easy to use...even with extra long night exposures.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Macro Photography
- Travel
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Got this head to use on a Gitzo carbon fiber monopod. My other head is an Acra Tech GV2 on Gitzo tripod. While not in the same class as the GV2, and who would expect it to be, the 1301 operates smoothly and locks tight. Thee have been some complaints about the Giottos mounting plate loosening. All of my cameras have Arca Tech plates attached which fit perfectly and lock tight on the 1301.
At a weight of a little over 1#, the 1301 plus camera and lens on the Gitzo monopod come out a little top heavy. This however, was no surprise and would hardly be a problem on a tripod.
One negative: The 1301 instructions warn that over loosening the friction control can cause a head failure, which will be something to think about when switching from the 1301 to the GV2 and back, as over loosening is not possible on latter. This issue alone, which I view as a design flaw gives the 1301 a 4-star instead of a 5-star.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Works well for outdoor shooting and is easy to set up and use. So far does what it needs to do and is priced well lower than many others that are similar.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
After searching for months I ended up purchasing the MH1301-656 and paired it with the MT-9360 Aluminum Tripod Legs by Giottos. The pair work fantastic together. The 656 is more than enough for what I need and the is smooth, quick, and very stable. It supports my D300 with out a wince. Very well made and built to last.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
For the price, this unit functions wonderfully and seems very well built. It's a little on the heavy side, but with the solid construction, that is to be expected. Currently mated to an Induro aluminum tripod and these two make a great pair.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
Bought this with Giottos MT8350 - my first tripod - which is a bit small for this head.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
- Poor camera plate
- Weak Clamp
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Wildlife
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
This is probably all the ball head most photo hobbyists will need. Ball movement is smooth and the excellent control knobs are solid and lock down tight, even with a heavy set-up. The head itself deserves 4 stars, but the clamp is just adequate and the camera plate is useable but allows some twist. I found a Markins camera specific plate works much better.
Yes, there are better ball heads out there, but I gave the MH-1301 four stars because you won't find a better ball head unless you pay at least twice as much.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Supplied QR plate
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
- Travel
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
I bought the MH-1301 ballhead to go with a Giottos MT-8361 tripod. It's a good combination and after using it intensively for a month, I have no serious complaints about the MH-1301. I'd buy it again.
The MH-1301 allows standard 3-axis positioning for framing, tension control for how easily the ballhead moves in the socket, and independent horizontal rotation (with degree scale) for panoramas. There's some "break-in" time when first using the MH-1301 as you try to get accustomed to its "feel," but after that, it's easy to use. It supports my Olympus E-3 and 50-200 lens (on the large side) rock steady with no "creep" or shifting at all.
The built-in bull's eye bubble levels are a nice touch, but check how your camera is seated before relying on them exclusively. There is a slight tilt on mine, so I continue to rely on a hot shoe level.
The MH-656 QR plate that came with the MH-1301 was a disappointment. As other reviewers have noted, it did not fasten securely to the camera body, allowing far too much slippage for use in the field. Fortunately, I had ordered a MH-646 QR plate at the same time to use as a spare. The MH-646 does attach very securely to the camera and the QR system itself is simple to operate, so things worked out in the end.
Without the MH-656 QR plate problem, this would be a 5 star review.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Portraits
Comments about Giottos MH-1301 Pro Series II Medium Ballhead with MH-656 Quick Release:
High quality build, adjustments work very smoothly yet holds position well (Nikon D300 with 17-55mm). Ball head provides excellent flexibility for proper framing of shot and this is an extremely well made head.
Universal Camera Plates
Show more >
- Price: $27.95
Vertical "L" Brackets
- Price: $108.31
Universal Lens Plates
- Price: $39.95
Accessory Shoes
- Price: $7.50
Macro Focusing Rails
- Price: $245.18
Levelling Bases
- Price: $96.00
Base Plates
- Price: $176.54
WHY SHOP AT B&H
Make your online shopping trip personal with our online Live Chat representatives. You can easily reach an in-house expert while browsing our site for your shopping needs. We have the most highly-trained staff in the industry who are pros in their fields, and their professional expertise will help you get the most from your purchase.
Place your domestic order with us for shipment via any UPS, FedEx Economy, or FedEx Priority shipping methods by 4 PM ET Monday through Thursday or 11 AM ET Friday and your order will be shipped that day. Visit our Shipping Delivery Times page for further details. Delivery times are subject to payment verification.
We appreciate your purchase from us, and we understand that sometimes the products you buy don't turn out to be the right choice for you. We guarantee your peace of mind with our 30-day return policy. With no standard restocking fee and few restrictions, you'll enjoy a return process as easy as shopping with us. Please visit our Return Policy page for further details.
We've made iPhone and Android mobile apps available for your service and shopping convenience. Use filtered search to find and purchase almost any item we sell and ship worldwide. Download product manuals and guides for many popular items. See high-resolution product images in close-up detail. Manage wishlists and view order history. Visit our Mobile Apps page to download.
See sample Newsletter
Help
Company Information
B&H Resources
