Lightweight/Traveling Tripod

[Kayaker72]

Hi Rick,

Very cool Arca-Swiss ball head. Currently, I don't take panning shots. Maybe I should. Actually, maybe I will now with a better tripod. But I am wondering, what would the double pan action gain you?

Regard the Markins, I am not seeing a screw....maybe I am missing something, but I am looking here:
http://markinsamerica.com/MA5/Q3T.php?req=Q3TSK

It was mentioned several times in the user reviews (3 on the first page) for the GT1542T on BH and I've found a couple of other references to Markins being one of the top brands (http://www.bythom.com/support.htm).

That said, I am pretty sure I'll end up with the RRS BH-30. I just haven't looked at all the ball heads enough to satisfy my various disorders ( ) and am busy getting ready for tonight. I think much of my debate will be between weight/performance and a little on cost. For example, RRS BH30 LR is 0.71 lbs at $275 and the RRS BH40 is 1.05 lbs at $375 and the Arca-Swiss Z1-sp is 1.3 lbs at $410. Giving 0.1 lb for the plate, the difference in the set up weight would be 3 lbs with the BH30 up to 3.6 lbs with the Arca-Swiss. But I like how the BH-30 is designed to fit within the Gitzo traveller legs and, ultimately, the BH-30 is rated for about the same weight as the GT1542T. All these trade offs....