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Arca-Swiss d4 Tripod Head with Classic Knob Quick Release (Geared)

BH #ARD4QSCG • MFR #870103
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Arca-Swiss d4 Tripod Head with Classic Knob Quick Release (Geared)
Key Features
  • Leverage Weight Capacity: 75 lb
  • Height: 4.3"
  • Weight: 2.1 lb
  • Arca & MonoballFix-Type Compatible
Tilt and pivot your camera in three-dimensional space with the Arca-Swiss d4 Tripod Head with Classic Knob Quick Release, which combines the advantages of a spherical head and a 3D tilt head in one compact system.
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Arca-Swiss D4 with Classic Knob QR Overview

Tilt and pivot your camera in three-dimensional space with the Arca-Swiss d4 Tripod Head with Classic Knob Quick Release, which combines the advantages of a spherical head and a 3D tilt head in one compact system.

Small at only 4.3" high and 1.8 lb, yet comprising a 75 lb leverage weight capacity (which accounts for the added stress of a heavy lens) and unobtrusive yet functional controls, the d4 can be used on a tripod like a normal spherical head. When both X- and Y-axes are open, one can move the camera freely. But, in contrast to a spherical head, X- and Y-axis movements can also be made separately, one at a time. And, if one of these axes is fixed, movements can be performed with even more precision.

The design of this head puts the center of rotation of X and Y- tilts in the same place, making the pivoting radius of these movements very small, thus allowing users to maintain perspectives during readjustment. Also, a self-locking shock absorption feature for the swivel function allows for near total compensation of the camera's weight.

In addition to manual operation, the d4 also offers the precision of separate gear-driven vertical/horizontal movements when the locking levers are fixed, with quick release clutches for fast, large adjustments.

Another notable feature is the separate 360° panning devices at the top and at the base of the head. The bottom device allows for camera alignment, while the top device facilitates the performance of accurate panoramas and rotational stitching. Two spirit levels, arranged at 90° angles underneath the upper panorama adjustment, are sufficiently visible to facilitate effective leveling, even from a low viewpoint. This head is compatible with either classic Arca-Swiss-type or newer Arca-Swiss MonoballFix-type camera plates.

Arca-Swiss D4 with Classic Knob QR Specs

Key Specs
Top Mounting
Arca-Type Quick Release via Separately Available Plate
Head Type
Pan & Tilt Head
Load Capacity
75 lb / 34 kg
Weight
2.1 lb / 977 g
Head
Top Mounting
Arca-Type Quick Release via Separately Available Plate
Head Type
Pan & Tilt Head
Base Mount
Flat Base with 3/8"-16 Female
Counter Balance
No
General
Load Capacity
75 lb / 34 kg
Accessory Mounting
No
Bubble Level
Yes
Weight
2.1 lb / 977 g
Packaging Info
Package Weight
2.77 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
8.3 x 6.1 x 5.2"

Arca-Swiss D4 with Classic Knob QR Reviews

Great Control

By Scott
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2026-06-19

Is it too expensive. Yes. Is there anything else that comes close. No. I shoot real estate so a geared head costing in the $200-$300 range would be more appropriate. Based on all the reviews I have been able to find, heads in that price range have limited functionality and a poor lifespans. I just can't rationalize the cost to have to replace the head again in 2-3 years. The d4 allows me quickly set the level, straighten the verticals and get the shot done. I remember Brian Berkowitz's remark about the tripod head being the one thing you touch every time you make a photo. If you need a cost justification, there it is.

superb piece of craftsmanship for precise adjustments!

By M.GEORGE
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2025-05-11

This is pricey and when you work with it, you readily undertstand why. It is a precise, expertly crafted work of art. You can adjust your camera and lens percisely. No more adjustment and then it slips.

See any errors on this page?

Is the Arca-Swiss D4 Head compatible with all RRS ...

Is the Arca-Swiss D4 Head compatible with all RRS L-Brackets and will it mount on the RRS TQC-14 Tripod?
Asked by: David
The Arca-Swiss d4 Tripod Head with Classic Knob Quick Release (Geared) can be mounted on the Really Right Stuff TQC-14 Series 1 Carbon Fiber Tripod and is compatible with Really Right Stuff L-brackets.
Answered by: Lawrence C
Date published: 2023-05-29

question

Can anyone explain the difference btw this model and the model that sells for $849? thanks.
Asked by: Tod C.
The Arca-Swiss d4 Tripod Head with a Classic Knob Quick Release (Geared) B&H # ARD4QSCG MFR # 870103 uses a standard Arca-Swiss style plate.And the Arca-Swiss d4 Tripod Head with a MonoballFix Quick Release (Geared) B&H # ARD4MBFG MFR # 870105, uses the smaller plate specific for the Monballfix.
Answered by: Robert K.
Date published: 2018-08-28

can this gear head be locked once you have ...

can this gear head be locked once you have adjusted it?
Asked by: jeffery
Yes.
Answered by: Rob
Date published: 2021-01-14

If I am reading the descriptions accurately the ...

If I am reading the descriptions accurately the D4 (and the P0 hybrid from Arca) are 2 way geared, not 3 way geared. The Panning rotation cannot be adjusted through a knob. Is this correct?
Asked by: Ken
Correct, it is not geared, just a locking lever.
Answered by: Rob
Date published: 2021-02-11

For real estate and geared head, do you think ...

For real estate and geared head, do you think this would work better than the P0 hybrid?
Asked by: Rustin
Yes, more versatile head.
Answered by: Rob
Date published: 2020-07-03

question

These have been on back order forever. The quick release are in stock. Is Arca discontinuing the classic knob?
Asked by: Herb C.
Please email us at photo@bhphoto.com for assistance with your inquiry.
Answered by: Heather S.
Date published: 2018-08-28

Can anyone recommend a snug-fit pouch for storing ...

Can anyone recommend a snug-fit pouch for storing this in?
Asked by: Adam
Arca-Swiss d4 Tripod Head with Classic Knob Quick Release (Geared) would be recommended to use a lens wrap such as this 11 inch Op-Tech: https://bhpho.to/45JsFPJ
Answered by: Dan W
Date published: 2023-09-11

Is it possible on the current shipping D4 (2024) ...

Is it possible on the current shipping D4 (2024) to remove the AS classic knob clamp and replace it with an RRS clamp?
Asked by: Dave
The Arca-Swiss d4 Tripod Head with Classic Knob Quick Release comes in a sealed box and we can't remove the AS classic knob clamp and replace it with an RRS clamp.
Answered by: Samik G
Date published: 2024-04-09
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