[quote name='pcox' date='Apr 28 2009, 09:13 AM' post='279564']
Hi folks -
I'm in the process of buying a new tripod. For the legs I'm going with the Gitzo 3541XLS, and I'm tossing up between the RRS BH-55 and the M20. I'm looking for feedback from folks who have used either (or both, even better).
For me the Markins seems to have a significant advantage in weight (almost half the weight of the BH-55) with similar load capacity. However, I've seen reports that the Markins pan lock can creep even when fully tightened, specifically with the camera slung over the shoulder (which I do a fair bit).
Heaviest combination I'd be using commonly is a 5D Mk II with the 70-200 f/2.8, although I may invest in a longer prime later.
Another major concern is that the head not move when a load such as the above is off-axis. i.e., if I put the ball in the drop-notch, will the lens droop a fraction when the ball is tightened?
For those who have the M20, do you use the Markins clamp or a RRS clamp?
Cheers,
Peter
I have used a Markins M10 for a few years, mainly with a 1DS2 with L bracket, sometimes also with the RZ 67. The head is as smooth as silk and locks up very tightly. I haven't tried the BH55, but weight was a concern as I sometimes use the head on a light tripod for travel. I compared the Markins directly with the Acra-tech, and the Markins was a much better choice for me. I couldn't see the benefit of the extra cost and weight of the M20.