User comment on Gitzo 1570M Head

Just thought I'd comment on it in case anyone is pondering the same head.

Not cheap, but superb. Exceedingly solid, with huge plate area for larger cameras -A good 6 plus inches by about 4+ - BIG. Ergonomically seems really good with smooth movements (with plently of resistance - ie not slippery!) that lock very well with a tiny amount of tighteneing. Attachment screws are great. Comes with both 1/4" and 3/8" which can be positioned as you wish, one or both. For field users of 10x8/5x7 this has to be about perfect, but probably too big for small 5x4 (certainly dwarfs my RSW45).

Simple, solid and beautifully made, smooth, easy, light for its size, but unfortunately £150. Thoroughly recommended. I just hope no gremlins appear in the field!

Tom

I quite like mine. Some have noted that it takes a little "breaking in"--i.e., it can be a little jerky at first with a small camera--but other than that, I've been happy with it. I've gotten the hang of using it for bird photos with my F-1N and 600/4.5, and it holds my 11x14" with ease. It's also great for macro with my Tech V.

A great platform for larger cameras. I, too, am very happy with the head.

Just a word of caution, but may not be applicable to new heads. The "working" attachment screw wheel is secured into the travel slot by a rubber "grommet". If the grommet gets dislodged, there is a high probability, (100% in my case ), that one will lose the attachment screw in the course of moving locations. The replacement cost runs about $14-15 and your local shop will, most likely, have to order for you. Frustrating time delay!

I went to the local home improvement center and bought nylon bolt, nut, and washers to secure the removal gap at the rear of the slot.

This may not have happened to others, (just my luck!!), but I can tell you it is very frustrating to drive somewhere, find the "perfect" shot, start to setup, only to realize you can not attach your camera to the head!!

Cheers,
Geary

Thanks for the info on the grommet. I had to remove it to remove the redundant 1/4 screw and wondered if it was likely to stay put. I will definitely look a more certain solution as you did! I dont fancy a 6 hour drive to Scotland for that to happen after arrival!

I agree with the breaking in bit. Mine is smooth on its 360 rotation and tilt fore and aft, but its lateral tilt is quite tight, though I also had this with my previous Velbon (now very worn in (beaten up)) and it loosed up nicely.

Tom