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| Gimbal mount capability has now been added to the Ultimate Ballhead from Acratech |
innovation takes one more step ... the new GV2 Ballhead
I've used this ballhead from Acratech Inc. in various incarnations from its creation. I've carried it to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and back and floated the canyon with it as well. It's always strapped to my backpack when I'm in the back country. In Monument Valley one year, I hit the head so hard against a rock while climbing to Hunts Mesa that I bent the release clamp and knob! I still was able to use it! At Mono Lake, a body of water much more saline than the pacific ocean, I once submerged it to just below the quick release plate. I've done the same with it many times in the sand dunes of Death Valley. While stored in my tripod bag it's constantly being crushed against the other tripods and heads when traveling. Truly I've tried to beat this design to death ..but failed!
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| a newly designed bushing on the stem allows a fluid smooth rotation |
In prior reviews I've stressed the importance of having reliable equipment and the fact that if you can't, or won't, take them to locations where you shoot, the value drops to zero in my opinion. I purchase equipment to use in the field. Anything that inhibits or prohibits this, is detrimental to the photo process I feel. What I seek are tools that are useful, and easy to use!
In short, if I can't get it there ... I can't use it there!
The latest "twist" from the Acratech people is to allow this already highly functional ballhead (the V2) to act as a gimbal when needed. They have simply added a bushing on the stem of the ball and a pin on the bottom of the ball to provide smooth rotation that provides total ease of use and freedom of movement when longer lenses with tripod collars are used. When using long lenses and a traditional ballhead they can become quite difficult to control and a gimbal mount becomes necessary. With very long and heavy lenses this is certainly still the case. However, simply by rotating the new GV2 ball into the Gimbal slot on the side of the ballhead, I've been able to balance and use successfully the Canon 70-200 2.8L, 100-400 4.5-5.6 and even my 300 2.8 IS L on occasion. When used with the Acratech Leveling Base, I'm able to keep the frame level across the entire field of view. And both ballhead and leveling base individually are still less than a pound! Other than the addition of a gimbal like capability, this is essentially the same great ballhead as the V2.
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| On a back country hike to Sperry Glacier in Glacier National Park, a goat is tracked across a ridge. |
The practical use
As you're shooting and awaiting that perfect sunset, a moving object just happens to grace your frame in the distance, and makes the perfect image! You didn't bring the gimbal mount out with you because you didn't bring your long heavy lenses either. However you do have the lighter versions. You quickly mount the longer lens on your Ultimate Ballhead and drop the ball into the gimbal slot vertically. The major technical advance of the original V2 ballhead's tension knob is now put to great use here. By loosening the main control knob fully and then adjusting the tension knob, the vertical motion becomes very smooth and precise. Loosening the pan knob just a little allows you to track the moving object smoothly. Done! Now, pulling the ballhead back to it's horizontal position, it again functions just like a traditional ballhead, and you continue to capture the amazing sunset you started with!
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| In the gimbal position the new V2G takes on the Canon 300 2.8L IS |
The technical data
Weighs less than 1 lb (.45kg) with quick release clamp.
Easily holds over 25 lbs (11.4kg) at any angle.
Full movements allow any camera position.
Precision C.N.C. machined.
Shown with left side controls (right side available).
Compatible with Kirk, Arca, R.R.S., and many other QR plates.
Beautiful satin black anodized finish.
Fits all standard tripods (1/4-20 and 3/8-16 threads).
Engraved degree markings.
Solid precision feel.
Made in U.S.A.
Ball will not shift when tightened.
Oilless and greaseless ball will not attract or hold dirt and debris.
All knobs are secured so they cannot vibrate loose and fall off.
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| The new V2G can still hold a 500 f/4 IS and 1 series body if necessary. It is rated to hold over 25 lbs. |
Conclusion
This innovation and upgrade of an already high functional, stable and sturdy head, I don't think is intended to, or will take the place of a traditional gimbal mount. You give up very little from the V2 to get the gimbal capability of the V2G however. This newest model will allow a 90 degree angle when used in the gimbal position. The preceding models yielded a little more. This seems a minor point and I adjust the tripod legs to compensate when necessary.
This new version adds yet one more option to my tool kit, and it comes now as part of a tool that I would already have with me in most shooting situations anyway! The GV2 is one more innovative step in the constant evolution of a very well designed ballhead.
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