Acratech GV2 Ballhead/Gimbal with Quick Release & Pin
The Acratech GV2 Ballhead/Gimbal Head is a sturdy, heavy duty, yet compact ballhead that is similar in design to most conventional ballheads (unlike the unique Ultimate head). However, the GV2 model has been improved so that it can be locked down when the head is in the 90° orientation, which effectively turns this ballhead into a gimbal-style head. This will now allow the camera to pivot around its center-point, gimbal style.
The GV2 features a low profile design, and sports all-rubber knurled knobs that are more comfortable to use, especially in extreme weather.
The built-in industry-standard Arca-Swiss style quick release clamp makes it compatible with the many different plates available from Arca-Swiss, Kirk, Wimberly, Really Right Stuff, Foba, Novoflex, etc. The clamp also feature a spring-loaded detent pin that projects into the pockets or windows that are cut into the bottom of most manufactures (Acratech, Kirk, Really Right Stuff, etc.) quick release plates. This detent pin will prevent the plate from accidentally sliding out in the event that the knob is partially loosened.
Note! This model does not included a bubble level
- Full movements allow any camera position
- Precision C.N.C. machined
- Engraved degree markings
- Solid precision feel
- Fully adjustable tension control knob
- 10-Year Manufacturer's Warranty
- Made in U.S.A.
| Load Capacity | 25 lbs (11.3 kg) |
| Height | 4.25" (108mm) |
| Quick Release | Yes, Arca-Swiss type |
| Spirit Level | No |
| Tension Control | Yes |
| Separate Panning Lock | Yes |
| Tripod Mount Thread Size | Dual 1/4"-20 and 3/8" |
| Weight | 1 lb (450 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 9 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Attaches firmly (4)
- Improves tripod function (4)
- Large range of motion (4)
- Strong clamp (4)
- Compact (3)
Cons
Best Uses
- Long exposures (4)
- Stabilization (4)
- Home (3)
- Landscape/scenery (3)
- Night shots (3)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Semi-pro photographer (4)
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 9 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-9
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Smooth Operation
- Solidly built
- Strong Clamp
- Very Precise
Cons
Best Uses
- Difficult Angles
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Travel
Comments about Acratech GV2 Ballhead/Gimbal with Quick Release & Pin:
I am an amature photograpner. I chose the GV2 without actually touching it, but found it to be the right piece of equipment. It is engineered and opperates like a fine surgical insturment. It is both rugged and precise. The tightening mechenisms require very little tensioning to get them to hold my 6.8 lb. gear. All movement is smooth like water over glass. The GV2 is very versitile, especially with the Gimbal notch, I can't imagine any position I will not be able to accomplish. I thought I would have preferred largeer "Leavers" rather than the thumbscrews, but these wor very well, and their various sizes make it easy for me to work them while looking through the viewfiner. I love the open architecture and expect that dirt or other debris will never get in the way or clog the movement. I coulc go on and on, this is a great piece of eqipment.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Lightweight
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Travel
Comments about Acratech GV2 Ballhead/Gimbal with Quick Release & Pin:
Solid Ball head. Excellent craftmanship.
No Cons yet!
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
Comments about Acratech GV2 Ballhead/Gimbal with Quick Release & Pin:
Very impressed with the design & construction of the GV2. Bigger than I thought it was going to be, but very lightweight. Prefer the Manfrotto Quick Release system but this one works well as well.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Smooth Panning
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Stabilization
Comments about Acratech GV2 Ballhead/Gimbal with Quick Release & Pin:
Very light and simple to operate. Works as advertised. The panning motion is very smooth.
It takes a little bit to get used to the fine tuning. I use this with several DSLR's/lens combinations with no problems. It is overkill for my P&S cameras but it works.
Pros
- Durable
- Good Value
- High Quality
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Acratech GV2 Ballhead/Gimbal with Quick Release & Pin:
Prior to this, I owned a another popular American-made ballhead. It was nice, but was prone to sticking and I had to send it back to the factory for repairs. It now sticks again despite light use and proper maintenance.
This ballhead is much better and handles light set ups to my 200mm lens with ease. I also like the gimbal feature - while not a true gimbal mount, it makes taking pictures in portrait mode easy, especially if I need to plug cables into my Canon 5D2.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fits Well
- Improves Tripod Function
- Solid/Sturdy
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Reducing Noise (ISO Reduction)
- Stabilization
Comments about Acratech GV2 Ballhead/Gimbal with Quick Release & Pin:
Very very solid and sturdy, but low-weight: a perfect ballhead and gimbal mixture
Pros
- Compact
- Fits Well
- Improves Tripod Function
- Lightweight
- Nice design
Cons
Best Uses
- Long Exposures
- Stabilization
Comments about Acratech GV2 Ballhead/Gimbal with Quick Release & Pin:
Rock-solid, smooth movement, low weight...! What else can be demanded to a ball-head?
Pros
- Compact
- Extremely durable
- Extremely precision made
- Good for action
- Improves Tripod Function
- Less than a pound
Cons
- No built-in level
- Pricey
Best Uses
- Action shots
Comments about Acratech GV2 Ballhead/Gimbal with Quick Release & Pin:
Controls are smooth and easy to adjust.
Word of warning, built in quick release clamp is NOT removable. This is done for stability/reliability reasons according to Acratech. If you want to use a different clamp or do not have a plate for an accessory you are out of luck.
This ballhead supports my Canon EF 100-400mm lens with ease.
Pros
- Compact
- Fits Well
- Gimbal feature works
- Improves Tripod Function
- Lightweight
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Hikes
- Long Exposures
- Photography
- Portraits
- Reducing Noise (ISO Reduction)
- Stabilization
Comments about Acratech GV2 Ballhead/Gimbal with Quick Release & Pin:
I bought this ballhead as a light alternative to my RRS BH-55 and boy was I surprised when I realized that I liked it more than the RRS. I bought it with the intention of only using the Acratech for long hikes or trips where weight was really an issue. Never did I imagine I would choose the Acratech over the RRS even for studio work. I love the Gimbal feature, no it doesn't replace a true Gimbal, but those times that I've been hiking and missed crucial shots because I didn't want to lug the Gimbal around are no more. This is the ultimate ballhead for versatility and I'm amazed nobody came up with this idea earlier. The engineering is solid and I have absolutely no complaints. Buy away you will not be dissappointed.
- Similar:
- RRS BH-55, Kirk BH-3, Benro KS-2
Displaying reviews 1-9
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What's in the Box
- 10-Year Warranty
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