Tripod head for cold weather and gloved hands!

Joseph Bell

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Joined

Mar 20, 2019

Messages

275

Location

Toronto

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35mm

• Aug 28, 2022

• #1

Good greetings!
I wonder if any of the cold weather shooters can recommend a tripod head that can be easily manipulated and adjusted in subzero temperatures with gloves? (I know it's only August but I've been a grasshopper for too long and I'm trying to be an ant.) Sincere thanks for your time and trouble!

 

Steve Goldstein

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Jul 8, 2007

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Northeastern US

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• Aug 28, 2022

• #2

I've had no issues using my Linhof 3663 while wearing mittens. It uses three decently-sized levers to lock the axes.

 

Alan9940

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Jun 17, 2006

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Location

Arizona

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• Aug 28, 2022

• #3

Over the years, I've used Bogen 3047, Ries A200, Gitzo G-1570M, and RRS BH-55 heads in bitter cold with fairly heavy gloves and never had any issues with the heads or working the controls. Getting the camera mounted to a head that doesn't have a quick release plate can be tricky with gloves on, but not impossible. I usually remove one glove just long enough to get the camera mounted or, if the temps permit, I use gloves that have fold-back finger tips.

 

250swb

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Apr 22, 2012

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Peak District

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• Aug 29, 2022

• #4

For this very reason I use the Manfrotto RC2 system with it's chunky clamping lever, no screws that need twiddling and no judgement needed for how tight it needs to be, when it's clamped shut the camera is firmly fixed on the head.

 

JamesEsq

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Joined

Aug 7, 2019

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23

Location

NE Ohio

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Multi Format

• Sep 20, 2022

• #5

I second the choice of the Manfrotto RC2, no issues with gloves on.

 

Maris

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Jan 17, 2006

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Noosa, Australia

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• Sep 21, 2022

• #6

I've used a Manfrotto 468MG RC4 Hydrostatic Ball Head in snowy winter conditions. It's held up a Mamiya RB67, a Tachihara 4x5, and on one occasion a Tachihara 8x10.
The locking mechanism is based on hydraulic oil and it permits the big rubber lock knob to release the ball completely or lock it with "tons" force (never slipped, ever) in half a turn using moderate finger pressure.
A separate adjustable drag mechanism holds the weight of the camera so it does not fall but still permits secure aim and tilt movements.
I thought it was expensive when I bought it new from KEH but it has worked perfectly for years. Still does.

 

MTGseattle

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Dec 8, 2013

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Seattle

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• Sep 23, 2022

• #7

Bogen/manfrotto 3030 ? Simple 3 axis head. Reasonably sized knobs on the arms.

 

JerseyDoug

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Joined

Oct 14, 2010

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385

Location

Jersey Shore

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Medium Format

• Oct 1, 2022

• #8

I have no issues handling my Gitzo GH2750 Series 2 offset ball head with gloves on. Just two large and easily accessible knobs.

 

Slixtiesix

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Jul 31, 2006

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Medium Format

• Oct 4, 2022

• #9

Another vote for the Gitzo G1570M (for heavy cameras like SL66, Mamiya RB/RZ or Fuji 6x8). For lighter MF cameras (645 or Hasselblad with standard lens, TLR) I can recommend the Gitzo G2270M.

 

John Koehrer

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Apr 3, 2004

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Aurora, Il

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• Oct 5, 2022

• #10

Gitzo R3 depending on your camera, works best with larger cameras. It has oval handles
and adjustable drag for up & down adjustment.

Heavy!