Pan vs. Ballhead

[BucksnBulls]

Hey guys, Im in the process of buying a new tripod and was wondering what type of head you all prefer. I have only ever used pan heads with my spotter but was looking into the ball style, with the idea that I could use it with my SLR as well. As far as tripods go, Im looking at the MeFoto Roadtrip and the Promaster XC525. Does anyone have experience with either? Thanks!!

 

[Caseyu]

Had both. And prefer pan heads. I could see how a ball head for a camera would be convenient. But if I could just have one it would be a pan head for me!

 

[In God We Trust]

I just bought a new Vortex tripod with a ball head. I have always use a pan head style and liked them but figured I would try the ball head. I'm not sure what to think of it yet. I have taken it out scouting twice and am trying to get used to it. So far I am leaning towards the pan head.

 

[LaHunter]

I have the Promaster 525 tripod. Owned it for the past year and like it. I have only used it on just one mule deer hunt packing it and it worked great for me. I also have the Promaster pan head which I like. No experience with any other head.

 

[25contender]

I love the pan heads but hate the weight of them.

 

[Umpqua Hunter]

I think ball heads are primarily for pointing to one spot and leaving it there. Pan heads are made for…..panning

For glassing game you definitely want a pan head to systematically glass an area.

 

[Bonecollector]

I too am in the market for a tripod.
So the panheads can be used for mounting a camera as well?

 

[Bwht4x4]

I have two tripods and both are ball heads. I like them due to the lightweight nature of them. The one thing that I like about them too is the small lever that will allow me to adjust them wherever I want. The large handles that come off the pan heads seem like they'd be a pain to lug around.

 

[25contender]

Yes they can. I use a Manfrotto quick change plate on my tripod and put a quick change plate on my optics and cameras.
http://www.manfrotto.com/quick-change-rectangular-plate-adapter

I too am in the market for a tripod.
So the panheads can be used for mounting a camera as well?

 

[BucksnBulls]

Thanks for the input guys! I'm going with the Promaster and the ballhead that comes with it for now. I figure I can always order a different head if it doesn't work for me.

Anyone use the pistol grip heads?

 

[hardstalk]

That one did not work well for me. The bigger scope would move on its own. Throw down a hundred bucks for a manfrotto rc2 and you will have a pretty light and sweet setup. I like mine!

Oh and pull the adjustable turn style feet off and put rubber cups on the bottom of the legs. That will shave more weight.

 

[hardstalk]

 

[BucksnBulls]

Great idea thanks for sharing!

 

[Bughalli]

I wouldn't even consider a ball head. Not for glassing. Pan all the way!

 

[Shooter]

I have a manfrotto pan head. The only thing I don't like about it is how heavy it is.