Beginner's Tripod Question

Joined
Aug 8, 2017
Messages
868
Location
Castle Rock, Co
I just bought a Vortex Summit SS tripod and I'd like to install a handle on it. I called Vortex and was told that I will not be able to put a handle on it. However, I've had someone tell me that I can switch heads on it, which would allow me to install a handle. I'm looking for some kind of authoritative answer on whether or not I can install a handle or if I'm stuck with what I have. Thanks in advance for the help.
 
it shows a handle on the pics on the website. Other than a pistol grip type head ive never seen one without a handle.... I would think it should just thread in like a bolt. Did you buy it new or used???
 
it shows a handle on the pics on the website. Other than a pistol grip type head ive never seen one without a handle.... I would think it should just thread in like a bolt. Did you buy it new or used???

I bought it refurbished from A and A optics. The only thing that I can find that unscrews is the tube, which is about 4" below the head.
 
not sure if that photo worked, but came off the vortex website. Shows a good close up of the head. No you shouldn't need to pry the logo off.
 
Couldn't get photo to show but sounds like I may need to contact the folks at a and a to determine whether or not any modifications or changes were made to the head prior to me purchasing it.
 
Is it possible you have a ball head instead of a pan head? A ball head wouldn't have a handle and you couldn't install either

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Here is a vortex ball head they typically only have a single knob to lock into position
56709a5c33c0a1b55228e9835da66ec1.jpg
Here is a pan head although not vortex
5ae487a4eca1e5ae532c178de64bca81.jpg
these typically have 2 lock knobs. One for horizontal "panning" and a separate knob to lock vertical movements
 
Definitely check the model. The summit SS (discontinued) is a ballhead and you can’t connect a handle to it (you can change the head as I use the legs with an outdoorsmans head or vanguard panhead)

The ss-p is the panhead model which you can connect a handle to.

For a while they offered both models and I would say if your legs don’t say ss-p you likely have the ballhead model
 
We have a great ball head. The Promaster CH20. It is a fluid head, perfect for glassing. It has a 1 year no fault warranty that we extend to lifetime for Rokslide members
Here is a link:
Maintenance | Camera Land NY[name]=ProMaster-Specialist-Series-SPCH20-Cine-Head-%232435-cine&catalog[product_guids][0]=1854190

Give me a call with any questions

Thanks
 
After several attempts, I haven't been able to remove the head. Will visit with someone at vortex. If I can't install a handle on it, is it common to operate a spotter or binos without one?
 
After several attempts, I haven't been able to remove the head. Will visit with someone at vortex. If I can't install a handle on it, is it common to operate a spotter or binos without one?
No ball heads have a handle so yes it's common to use without one. Some people prefer them but most find them less user friendly for glassing. You have to loosen the lock knob move the glass to the position you want and relock the knob.

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See the big ring on the bottom of the ball head? Wrap a wash cloth around it to protect the finish and use some big pliars and turn it off the tripod.
7a4e2c8331427e83c13e2a07fd1417a0.jpg


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It’s on there with thread locker so they’re a little on the tough side to work off. As mentioned, I wrapped cloths around my column and my head then cranked them apart with pipe wrenches.

When you’re looking at new heads you’ll likely need a bushing. The screw on the legs is 1/4-20 (same as the plate screw to mount an optic) most every head is generally a standard 3/8-16.

You can pick them up most photo places or online for a couple bucks.

If you’re looking for a budget head my brother has been using the Benro S2 head and has been really happy with it.
 
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