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Reviews about this item

Review Summary

2012-06-17T21:00:00

Rated 5 out of 5

Ballhead on steroids!

I tried several different heads on my monopod until I put this one on it. I'm done trying different monopod heads. This head tops them all. I purchased this without a clamp and topped it off with my RSS clamp. Using an RSS L plate on my camera and the gimbal feature of this ballhead gives my camera a well balanced, stable monopod platform with smooth vertical movements in the gimbal position. The best platform I've found for a monopod. The gimbal feature is surprisingly versatile and smooth, but, I doubt it would compete with a true gimbal head. Don't kid yourself...there's good reason a true gimbal head costs what it does. I haven't tried this on a tripod...it's staying on my monopod.

DAVE R.

2011-09-05T21:00:00

Rated 5 out of 5

Great ballhead

I love this ball head. Lightweight and easy to use.

Mel

Acratech GV2 Specifications

  • Construction

    Precision CNC-machined

  • Load Capacity

    25 lb (11.3 kg)

  • Height

    4.25" (108mm)

  • Quick Release

    Yes, lever-operated Arca-style (plate sold separately)

  • Spirit Level

    Yes

  • Tension Control

    Yes

  • Separate Panning Lock

    Yes

  • Tripod Mount Thread Size

    1/4"-20 and 3/8-16" (reducer bushing included)

  • Weight

    1.1 lb (482 g)

About Acratech GV2

The Acratech GV2 Ball Head / Gimbal Head with Lever Clamp is an updated version of the existing GV2 head. Rather than a rubber knob, this model features a locking lever for securing the Arca Swiss-style clamp that constitutes the quick-release element.

The GV2 is a sturdy, heavy-duty, yet compact ball head that is similar in design to most conventional ball heads (unlike Acratech's unique Ultimate head). However, the GV2 model can be locked down when the head is in the 90deg. orientation (in the "gimbal slot"), which effectively turns this ball head into a gimbal-style head. This allows the camera to pivot around its center point. A bushing on the ball's stem and a pin on the bottom of the ball enable this smooth rotation - free, gimbal-style movement.

The built-in industry-standard Arca-Swiss-style quick-release clamp makes it compatible with the many different plates available from Arca-Swiss, Kirk, Wimberley, Really Right Stuff, Foba, Novoflex, etc. The clamp also features a spring-loaded detent pin that projects into the pockets or windows that are cut into the bottom of most manufacturers' (Acratech, Kirk, Really Right Stuff, etc.) quick-release plates. This detent pin will prevent the plate from accidentally sliding out in the event that the knob is partially loosened.

In addition, this model uses a "leveling" q.r. clamp, which features a large 15mm bullseye bubble level that extends out of the side of the clamp. The GV2 features a low-profile design and sports all-rubber knurled knobs that are comfortable to use, even in extreme weather.

Acratech GV2 Features

  • Lever-operated quick-release clamp with 15mm bullseye level, with detent pin to keep the plate from sliding out by mistake
  • Works well with lenses up to 400mm f/4.0 and any tripod with a 1/4"-20 or 3/8"-16 threaded screw
  • Full movements allow any camera position
  • Precision CNC-machined
  • Solid, precision feel
  • Engraved panning degree markings
  • Satin-black anodized finish
  • Fully adjustable tension-control knob
  • Oilless and greaseless ball will not attract or hold dirt and debris
  • Ball will not shift when tightened
  • All knobs are secured so they cannot vibrate loose and fall off

Key Features

  • Lever-operated quick-release clamp
  • Works well with lenses up to 400mm f/4.0 & any tripod with a 1/4"-20 or 3/8"-16 threaded screw
  • Full movements allow any camera position
  • Precision CNC-machined
  • Solid, precision feel
  • Engraved panning degree markings

What's in the box:

  • Acratech GV2 Ball Head
  • 1/4"-20 Reducer Bushing
  • Detent Pin
  • Quick Release Clamp
  • Lever Clamp
  • Bulls Eye Level
  • Acratech 10 Year Warranty