Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg)
The Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release is a rugged and well-designed ballhead. It features the same efficiency of design and rugged construction as its bigger BH-1 brother, but only weighs in at 19 oz. It is rated to support up to 15 lbs, and is ideal for use with pro SLR cameras with pro zoom lenses attached. In addition to the large single-action locking knob, the BH-3 also features two smaller knobs. One controls the 360° panning control, and the other the amount of ball friction.
The BH-3 ballhead comes with a universal quick release clamp that is compatible with all Arca-type plates. All external components are crafted from tough 6061-T aircraft aluminum including the solid, captive-design knobs, and the internal metal parts are stainless steel and brass to avoid corrosion. The ballcup is produced from self-lubricating Delrin composite.
- Large 1.65" (42mm) ball diameter
- Base diameter of 2.4" (61mm)
- Quick release clamp features safety stop grooves and built-in spirit level
| Maximum Camera Supported | 35mm SLR |
| Load Capacity | 15 lbs (6.8kg) |
| Ball Diameter | 1.7" (4.3 cm) |
| Pan Base | 360 degree rotation with positive lock |
| Pan Base Diameter | 2.4" (6.1 cm) |
| Height | 4" (10.2cm) |
| Quick Release | Yes |
| Spirit Level | Yes |
| Tension Control | Yes |
| Tripod Mount Thread Size | 3/8"-16 |
| Weight | 1.2 lb (540g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 55 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Stable (35)
- Attaches firmly (32)
- Large range of motion (30)
- Strong clamp (30)
- Fits well (7)
Cons
- Heavy (4)
Best Uses
- Landscape/scenery (27)
- Night shots (20)
- Portraits (19)
- Travel (15)
- Wildlife (12)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (23), Semi-pro photographer (12), Pro photographer (7), Casual photographer (4)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (22)
Most Liked Positive Review
High Quality at a Great Price
I won't lie to you -- this isn't the best ballhead out there. But for the price, you can't beat the quality and performance of the BH-3. I think it's far better ...Read complete review
I won't lie to you -- this isn't the best ballhead out there. But for the price, you can't beat the quality and performance of the BH-3. I think it's far better constructed than the Manfrotto 468RC2 Hydrostatic at the same price, and it's nearly the equal of the RRS BH-40 that is over $100 more expensive. In addition, this ballhead includes a QR plate, which is a $50 value if you don't own any Arca-Swiss-style plates already. My only complaint is the relative placement of the lock, friction, and panning knobs, which I personally find awkward. That said, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this product!
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Holds weight very steady.
BH-3 head came highly praised. It is well made and smooth to use. However I have found a couple things I am not happy with. It won't rotate to a full vertical shot...Read complete review
BH-3 head came highly praised. It is well made and smooth to use. However I have found a couple things I am not happy with. It won't rotate to a full vertical shot, I have to adjust one leg to get the vertical needed. Also the screw adjustment knob for the quick release plate isn't as easy to use as the lever release style. Because of the screw type of release plate I have loosened it a copule times and almost droped my camera thinking I had turned the knob to the ball instead. There is a learning curve with this ball head. I would recommend this to a friend with caution of making sure you know which knob you are truning.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 55 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
Most of the positives regarding this ballhead have already been mentioned in other reviews. I want to reply to some negative views that suggest the ballhead cannot be fully rotated 90 degrees for use with your camera in portrait (vertical) orientation. In fact, this CAN be done: to use the ballhead in portrait orientation, just screw in the quick release plate so that the longer axis of the plate runs parallel with the longer axis of your camera (in other words, mount the quick release plate onto the quick release clamp from left-right instead of forward-backward). Done this way, you can rotate the ballhead into the slot at a full ninety degrees without the knob from the quick release clamp getting in the way.
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
You get just what you expect - smooth movement, solid locking. The QR knob is quick enough. Panning is a bit slow and the whole unit is a bit skinny and tall for my taste, but those are all things I knew before buying. It's a well-made basic ballhead that does what it says it seems built to last. I like that the plate is universal. 4 not 5 because the knob block it from going 100% vertical.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
this head is much easier to manipulate than many of the well known brands. seems to work much better for me in keeping the camera or lens stable during/after adjustments. very high quality build. I have subsequently purchased camera plates for my other cameras.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
- Top quality construction.
- Smooth action.
- A must for all lenses that require a smaller mount than a Gimbal.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
I wish I would have just bought this from the start.
i have been through several hundred dollar ball heads that have all failed. This one is rock solid and light enough for carry.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
Great quality build, very smooth operation. Takes my D5100 and up to 55-300mm lens without any trouble. In-built spirit level can be tricky to use as it is small and partially hidden when a camera is mounted on the head. Overall I'm very happy to have made the investment.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
This is a precision instrument, easy to use but rugged and American-well-built; consequently it isn't light. I'm using it on a Gitzo aluminum tripod, with a Nikon D300 camera, and they all seem very well mated. I think an L-bracket would make this ballhead even more convenient, but I have absolutely nothing but praise for the Kirk workmanship.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro
- Night Shots
- Portraits
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
I use the BH-3 with a D300 w/MB-D10 grip along with the BL-D300G L bracket it makes a quite stable setup for macro & landscape work.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Complicated Controls
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
Love the quality and smooth operation, but admit I'm still getting the hang of the knobs and which does which. I'm still paranoid at my camera being locked in as I'm used to a Manfrotto quick release, but I like the quality on this ballhead (as well as the bracket gives me back the screw hole for using a different type of camera strap).
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Night Shots
- Portraits
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
I tried several ballheads in an effort to find a smooth and strong ballhead. The Kirk ballhead is strong, easy to use, and smoother than any of the other ballheads I tried out. Works well with speed clamps.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
- Strong Clamp
Cons
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
I plan to use this as a travel ballhead for my D700 abd D200 cameras; I have an RRS ballhead which is great, but too large/heavy for travel. I wish the clamp were a bit larger, but one can always replace it with a longer one.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Attractive product
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Travel
- Wildlife
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
The Kirk BH-3 ball head is attractive, well-made and rock solid for the uses I put it through. I do not use any long telephotos but it handles an Olympus E5 with attery grip and the Zuiko 12-60mm lens with no creep in any position. An excellent ball head at any price.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
Sturdy. Built like iron. Seems to work well. I like well made items, not pieces of junk.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Stability
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
Use this on light gear, rock solid, smooth operation, great value for the money
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
Cons
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
Good value for price. I did not need the BH-5.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Does drift
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Portraits
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
The build quality lets you know you have some serious real estate. I graduated to this after many years with my pistol grip manfrotto 222 ballhead. Took a little while to get used to but now I'm hooked. The adjustment knobs are perfectly sized and positioned and motion is very very fluid. I still marvel at how the ball locks and holds "big glass" even in "crazy"angles. My only gripe would be that when you using long lens/heavy glass (70-200 f2.8) you position your focus spot through the lens and lock the ballhead only to find that it does drift down a few millimetres (I have slowly learnt that you have to factor this when determining your critical focus spot)
- 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
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
I already own and love the BH-3's big brother, the BH-1 but I needed a smaller and lighter head to use with my walk-around kit. This fit the bill flawlessly. Its very strong, holding my 24-70 and 70-200. No creep what-so-ever! Well built, should last a long time. Probably the last heads I ever need to buy. Very happy with the purchase.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Strong Clamp
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
Its heavier than I thought but still lighter than some of the other ballheads out there.
It seems to be very well constructed and provides really good stability.
Seems like it will last forever - I certainly hope so, just wish it was a little lighter as I use it for travelling.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Smooth and sturdy
Cons
- Pricey
Best Uses
- Home
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Wildlife
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
This is my first ballhead. Last few years I had been using Manfrotto 3265 head. BH-3 is way way ahead in terms of smooth movement. This allows me to compose easily. I highly recommend this.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attaches Firmly
- Good Stability
- Large Range of Motion
- Strong Clamp
- Sturdy smooth to operate
Cons
- A bit on the heavy side
Best Uses
- Landscape/Scenery
- Night Shots
- Portraits
- Sports/Action
- Video
- Wildlife
Comments about Kirk BH-3 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 15 lbs (6.8kg):
This ballhead was smooth to operate and solid. Works excellent with my 300s / 70-200 Nikon. Easy to lock and it stays put.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Quick Release Plates
- Price: $39.00
Spare Parts
- Price: $24.95
Bags & Cases
- Price: $19.95
What's in the Box
- PZ-3 Arca-Type Compact Quick Release Plate
- Universal Quick Release Plate
- 5-Year Warranty
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