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Oben BC-166 Ball Head

BH #OBBC166 • MFR #BC-166
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Oben BC-166 Ball Head
Key Features
  • 66.1 lb Load Capacity
  • Arca-Type Compatible Quick Release
  • Tension Control
  • Separate Panning Lock
The BC-166 Ball Head from Oben is a durable aluminum ball head that features an Arca-type compatible quick-release system. It has a large locking knob with a tension control screw to give you maximum control of the ball, and a separate knob for the 360° panning movement.
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Oben BC-166 Overview

The BC-166 Ball Head from Oben is a durable aluminum ball head that features an Arca-type compatible quick-release system. It has a large locking knob with a tension control screw to give you maximum control of the ball, and a separate knob for the 360° panning movement.

The BC-166's multiple knobs enable higher-precision adjustments to the head than are possible with single-lever heads. Taking panoramic photos is simple, for instance, because you can pan a specific number of degrees while keeping the head's tilt position locked. In fact, the BC-166 features degree markings around its circumference to aid in that task. A notch in the ball head allows you to quickly change between portrait and landscape orientation.

The included quick-release plate attaches to your camera via its standard 1/4"-20 screw, and is secured in place with an Arca-type clamp. A locking knob controls the opening and closing of the aluminum clamp simply and reliably. Two safety screws on the bottom of the plate help prevent your camera from accidentally being released when adjusting the plate fore and aft. One bubble level on the clamp, and another on the locking knob, both ensure that your camera will be level with the horizon.

UPC: 847628563544

Oben BC-166 Specs

Key Specs
Camera Mounting
1/4"-20 Screw (Quick Release Plate: Arca-Type)
Head Type
Ball Head
Drag Control
Yes
Load Capacity
66 lb / 30 kg
Weight
1.9 lb / 0.9 kg
Head
Camera Mounting
1/4"-20 Screw (Quick Release Plate: Arca-Type)
Head Type
Ball Head
Base Mount
Flat Base with 3/8"-16 Female
Counter Balance
No
Pan & Tilt
Drag Control
Yes
Independent Pan Lock
Yes
Vertical Tilt
No
Lateral Tilt
No
General
Load Capacity
66 lb / 30 kg
Bubble Level
Yes
Weight
1.9 lb / 0.9 kg
Packaging Info
Package Weight
2.21 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
5.4 x 4.4 x 3.45"

Oben BC-166 Reviews

Heavy but

By John
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2025-07-09

This ball head is heavier than I was expecting but I have used it several times since I got it and it works awesome. My old ballhead would slip no matter how much I tightened it. This new ballhead just needs a little pressure on the knobs to get it tight and stable. I would buy again and would recommend

Well made

By Douglas
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2024-06-23

Solid stable mount. Allows me to use my ioptron tripod for terrestrial photos, eliminating the need for a second tripod when traveling.

See any errors on this page?

What is the overall height of the Oben BC-166 ...

What is the overall height of the Oben BC-166 ball head?
Asked by: Allen
The Oben BC-166 Ball Head is H: 4.7" / H: 11.9 cm.
Answered by: Rob K
Date published: 2023-03-26

Would it mount on Davis & Sanford TR605MONO ...

Would it mount on Davis & Sanford TR605MONO Traverse Pro Monopod?
Asked by: Jun
Yes, the Davis & Sanford TR605MONO Traverse Pro Monopod with Folding Base (B&H # DATR605MON) can support the Oben BC-166 Ball Head on the flat base with 3/8" mounting point.
Answered by: Marvin C
Date published: 2025-05-23

will l brackets like really right stuff bracket ...

will l brackets like really right stuff bracket area Swiss compatible fit without qr plate?
Asked by: doug
It should if it has arca swiss dove tales. Some arca swiss quick release has slightly different measurements which is annoying but it will probably fit.
Answered by: John
Date published: 2020-01-09

how fast/slow is the pan function? I am looking ...

how fast/slow is the pan function? I am looking to use it with a sidekick.
Asked by: John
It is very fast and smooth, depending on how you have it adjusted.
Answered by: Zachariah
Date published: 2021-02-21

How different is this compared to Sirui K-40X ...

How different is this compared to Sirui K-40X Ball Head from design perspective?
Asked by: Nagendra
The Oben BC-166 Ball Head has the same basic design as the Sirui K-40X Ball Head, but with fewer positive reviews and a slightly lower load capacity.
Answered by: Boyd H
Date published: 2023-06-02

question

I was gifted the BC-166 (used) only to find it not containing a QR-40 plate, will it work with QR-30 plates also because I have not been able to find any replacements.
Asked by: Stahler M.
Yes the QR-30 plate will work with this ball head.
Answered by: Nick Y
Date published: 2021-06-22

question

I have the ba-113 ball head, and use the Canon t4i with my new Sigma 150-600mm, but get CONSIDERABLE drift when using it on the tripod. Would this be better, or will it still drift, would a pan-tilt be better than a ball head?
Asked by: Anonymous
You should get no drift with this ball head but I would recommend a gimbal head for the longer lenses. BH # OBGH50
Answered by: Jacob C.
Date published: 2021-06-25

I'd like to mount a TopRig S40 Motorized Camera ...

I'd like to mount a TopRig S40 Motorized Camera Slider with a Sony A7siii on this head with tripod. Will it support it?
Asked by: Scott
The Oben BC-166 Ball Head can support the Accsoon TopRig S40 Motorized Camera Slider, Sony a7S III Mirrorless Camera, and a lens weighing up to 4 lbs.
Answered by: Lawrence C
Date published: 2024-06-21
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