How about that, something that is needed to be quickly released is called a quick release plate. Jeez! I guess sometimes things are that simple. But, I am glad I asked because both of your responses were informative. Brant, the link you provided almost made my eyes pop out of their sockets and gave me a good laugh. Yes, I know how pricey our toys are, it still stunns me sometimes. All kidding aside, in the future I will be getting a tripod, ballhead mount and I will definitely keep this in mind. For now the tri-pod my dad gave me many moons ago , from his photography days is pretty decent. It weighs 2lb 12oz., folds down to 23", winds up to about 5'5", lets me swivel around 360, goes horizontal and vertival and it must be aluminum, because so far no rust (knock wood). The only downside is it has twist legs. All I need now is a "quick release plate". I checked BH and they have acratech brand that is aluminum, and I looked at the one from RRS, although I did not see that it was aluminum, it probably is, I will ask RRS if I choose this one. Thanks again gentleman.