Swarovski Optik FH101 Two Way Pan Fluid Head with Quick Release, Supports 7.7 lbs.

A Tripod head with a very neat locking mechanism and one handed controls, The FH101 is a fluid head designed for use with any spotting scope, offering positive fluid movement, with smooth control through a 360° pan and +90 to -90° tilt. The locking mechanism is separated from the mobility adjustment, and there is one operating device to lock the apparatus and a second one to unlock it. The telescope will not move when the lock is on.

The advantage of this head is how comfortable and quick it is to use. The very innovative click-connection attachment makes fitting a telescope simple and easy and the whole head operates securely, quickly, precisely and comfortably with one hand. Each of the two shoulders also be secures with just one hand movement. This means that valuable time is not lost while you enjoy watching or photographing birds.

Considering its weight, precision and maxximum load capacity, it is likely an ideal head for any spotting scope. It's included quick release plate can be attached to any device with a 1/4"-20 threaded tripod socket, but with Swarovski's current 65mm & 80mm ATS & STS series of spotting scopes, as well as both of their current binocular tripod adapters, it is not necessary to use the release at all.

New and very cleverly designed mechanics allow you to independently adjust tilting and panning movements to be either fully mobile or securely fixed. You can use the FH101 head with a conventional tripod if an optional tripod rotator such as those listed by Swarovski as accessories is utilized. Since the FH101 does not have any provision for achieve a vertical orientation with your camera, you therfore employ the tension upon the tripod rotator which moves your camera from horizontal to vertical orientation-as well as to fine-tune the camera's horizontal position.

The head is suitable for both right and left-handed users. Weighing just 540g, the centre of gravity of the whole tripod-telescope unit is quite low, which tells you that the head is very stable.

Another development in the FH 101 is the materials used: special superimposed materials prevent lubricants from being discharged and the high-tensile, corrosion-proof construction plastic is not only stable and unbreakable but also very easy to maintain and reduces vibration.