Need ball head recommendations for use with binos

[WVELK]

I want to buy a ball head for use with my 10x42s and a tripod. If you have one that you like and is smooth, please let me know. Thanks.

 

[alexnelon]

Ball head sucks to glass with honestly.

 

[Wheels]

Get a Sirui VA-5.

 

[Shortschaf]

I use a ballhead glassing because I want to be able to shoot off it. So it is a compromise in the glassing department.
I use a leofoto MA30L / RRS Anvil copy.
No other ballhead I've used was good enough at shooting to consider, and if I can't shoot with it, I'd just get a fluid head.

For fluid heads, I used to have the surui va5 and was not impressed. I sold it. The lever tightening screw stripped out on me, and it was bigger/heavier than I cared for.

So IMO if you decide to go fluid head for glassing I'd probably get any Amazon special that is lightweight and cheap. Many options out there

https://www.amazon.com/LEFTFOTO-Lightweight-Panorama-Gimbals-Compact/dp/B0BHSRVF94?gQT=1

 

[WVELK]

I have one. I do not want anything to shoot off. I don’t want anything other than a ball head that can pivot and tilt in all directions while I use my binos.

 

[WVELK]

I have one. I do not want anything to shoot off. I don’t want anything other than a ball head that can pivot and tilt in all directions while I use my binos.

 

[Blackcow]

Have you used a ball head to glass before? They’re not the best by a long shot, but neither are pistol grips. They both work better with a panning plate under them though. Look at the outdoorsman planner.

 

[Blowdowner]

For 10's a cheap one will be fine. I thought a ball head would solve all my life's problems but then i realized you can't utilize the whole range of motion unless you're on flat ground, sitting on an office chair with wheels and height adjustment, hardwood or concrete floor, and your tripod doesn't have legs that stick out.

To be serious through the most important thing is that when you locate an animal and tighten the screw and let go the binos stay aimed at the animal not jump after you take your hands off. That may be why s fluid head is better.

 

[WVELK]

Have you used a ball head to glass before? They’re not the best by a long shot, but neither are pistol grips. They both work better with a panning plate under them though. Look at the outdoorsman planner.

I have used both in Alaska ball head and pistol. I agree not perfect, but surely better than a fluid head. You can’t tilt side to side with the fluid head. And in the mountains with binos seems like you always need side to side.

 

[Time2fish]

I’ve glassed and shot from my Aziak ball head, it does both decently IMO. I also have a leofoto MA30 that’s better for shooting.