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Kirk BH-1 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 50 lbs (22.6kg)

BH #KIBH1 • MFR #BH-1
Kirk BH-1 Ballhead with Quick Release - Supports 50 lbs (22.6kg)
Key Features
  • Incl. Universal Q.R. Plate
  • Arca-Type Quick Release System
  • Separate Pan & Friction Control Knobs
The Kirk BH-1 Ballhead with Quick Release is a rugged and well-designed ballhead. It features the same efficiency of design and rugged construction that make other Kirk products so popular. Weighing in at under 2 lbs, this head is rated to support up to 50 lbs. In addition to the large single-action locking knob, the BH-1 also features two smaller knobs. One controls the 360° panning control, and the other the amount of ball friction.

The BH-1 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.

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Kirk BH-1 Overview

The Kirk BH-1 Ballhead with Quick Release is a rugged and well-designed ballhead. It features the same efficiency of design and rugged construction that make other Kirk products so popular. Weighing in at under 2 lbs, this head is rated to support up to 50 lbs. In addition to the large single-action locking knob, the BH-1 also features two smaller knobs. One controls the 360° panning control, and the other the amount of ball friction.

The BH-1 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 2.125" (54mm) ball diameter
Base diameter of 2.9" (73mm)
Quick release clamp features safety stop grooves and built-in spirit level

Kirk BH-1Specs

General
Head Type
Ball Head
Load Capacity
50 lb / 22.6 kg
Drag Control
Yes
Weight
1.9 lb / 0.8 kg
Packaging Info
Package Weight
2.47 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
6.05 x 5.95 x 5.2"

Kirk BH-1 Reviews

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question

I am interested to know if the Kirk BH-1 would pair up with the Fesiol Ct3442 tripod. This tripod allows for a smaller package by folding back on itself 180 degree's. Will this ball head allow this to occur?
Asked by: Wayne
Yes, it will pair up, and it will fold back up but the legs will not be as close together as they would be otherwise and therefore that combo won't fit in the given Feisol tripod bag.
Answered by: James B.
Date published: 2018-08-27

question

How much range does the tension/drag knob have? I read one review that stated the tension range is very limited. The tension is basically on or off without much range at all. Is this true?
Asked by: Samuel L.
This is a superb head. As such, it is designed to do what is needed for pro level work. Not being able to supply the amount of tension desired by a variety of photographers would be a severe design failure.You can adjust the amount of ball tension to your desired amount. The large knob is the Main Lock Knob. The small knob on the opposite side is the Variable Tension Knob. First tighten the Main Lock Knob then the Variable Tension Knob. Then loosen Main Lock Knob all the way, and then loosen the Variable Tension Knob to tension taste.
Answered by: Dennis A L.
Date published: 2019-10-06

Can I use this ball head with Gitzo GT2532 ...

Can I use this ball head with Gitzo GT2532 tripod?
Asked by: Alfred
Yes, this head is compatible with the Gitzo GT2532 Mountaineer Series 2 Carbon Fiber Tripod, B&H # GIGT2532. https://bhpho.to/2JFe0OV
Answered by: Joseph
Date published: 2019-05-26

question

Hello, I bought this BH-1 ballhead and need to know which quick release plate to buy/use for a large format camera - Chamonix.Thanks.
Asked by: Anonymous
For a large format camera, you might look at the Foba BALTE Quick-Release Plate (B&H # FOBALTECC). It is designed for Medium and Large format cameras, and would be compatible with Arca-Swiss style systems such as the Kirk BH-1.
Answered by: Christina S.
Date published: 2018-08-27

question

Would I be able to still reverse close my Mefoto GlobeTrotter Classic with this ballhead?
Asked by: Scott S.
The tripod will not close as tightly as it can with the original ballhead. This ball head is bigger and wider than that head.
Answered by: Jacob C.
Date published: 2018-08-27

question

Hi, could you confirm the part number of the included camera plate? Thanks.
Asked by: Tian
This does not come with a plate. You can order a variety of different plates on the B&H website. Kirk makes several. Personally I use mostly Sunwayfoto clamps and the ProMediaGear universal 4 L bracket plates (I have battery grips on my bodies), both from B&H. To the best of my knowledge and experience most Arch Swiss plates and clamps are interchangeable (the BIG advantage of Arca Swiss).
Answered by: Gregory A.
Date published: 2018-08-27

question

Is the quick release clamp on this ballhead removable or is it a part of the ballhead.? Thank you
Asked by: Mike
The clamp can unscrew after removing a small Allen safety screw
Answered by: HAL S.
Date published: 2018-08-27

question

Is this ball head (Kirk BH-1) goes on tripod Manfrotto 190XPRO3 without any problems?
Asked by: Michel M.
Attaches no problem. I always Loctite threadlock for additional security--use blue or removable threadlock if you so desire.
Answered by: Randal L. H.
Date published: 2018-08-27
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