Gitzo G-1570M Rationnelle Magnesium 3-Way Pan/Tilt Head - Supports 22.00 lb (9.98 kg)

Comments about Gitzo G1570 3 Way Head:

This thing is stable. As opposed to any other heads I've used, this is by far and away the most reliable and logically designed. Considering its weight limit, its relatively light and requires little effort to tighten down the knobs and levers. When it is tight. It will not move. It comes with 2 knobs to fix onto your camera. One is sufficient for a 20 lb camera but I've been using 2 to tighten it down and its great. With the levers, you get a full range of movements without having to fear a sudden drop. The movements are fluid and gentle. The best tripod head I've ever used.

Comments about Gitzo G1570 3 Way Head:

Very useful for large format (up to 8x10), long, heavy lenses and macro lenses in the field and studio. Works better on aluminum tripods. Too heavy for all but the largest basalt and carbon fiber tripods. Not easily adaptable to sports and quick action.
I have owned 2 of them. Very stable but try to get an older M model without the newer and presumably cheaper rubberized plate lining material. It rubs offer in a matter of weeks when connecting long lenses and makes that connection less secure.

Heavy but not overly so due to magnesium (2.95 lbs). Vertical handle tightening is too stiff but still pliable enough for most uses. Other movements are fine. Low Profile system limits ability to shoot up at angles greater than 30 degrees. Best Gitzo panning head for nature work as 2270M is too light for 400 2.8 or 500 f4. Use Gimbel head for 600mm+.

Comments about Gitzo G1570 3 Way Head:

I have some very large camera/lens combinations that require a tripod/head combination to hold nearly 20 lbs. My previous head was a Gitzo ball head which would just tend to flop over when I loosened it enough to move the camera. The Gitzo G1570 3 way head gives me the control I need to quickly move the camera into position. My one problem was with my largest lens (weighs 13 lbs.)in securing it to the head with a single 3/8" screw. I solved this by using 2 - 1/4" screws making it very stable (it also increases the setup time) In general I am very happy with the unit.

Comments about Gitzo G1570 3 Way Head:

Use it with an 8x10. Pretty darn solid. Easy to reach the handles.