Cullmann CU 40261 MAGNESIT BALL Head # MB 6.1 (Black/Silver)

There is the super affordable/cheap "stuff" coming from the far east all the way to the $$$ ones made in USA, Germany, etc. I first tested the waters with their smaller 2.1 version and liked the ergonomics of the head. That made me feel comfortable in ordering the larger 6.1 version.Finish and production quality of this ball head is top shelf. It has a black powder coat finish that has proven to withstand a variety of abusive handling-carry situations. I would like it anodized but that is a minor point. The ball is nicely machined and articulates smoothly. The rubber sleeve is a joke, unless very careful in positioning it into the drop slot position, you'll tear-kink that rubber sleeve where it has a chunk hanging off it. That is one of my disappointments, they could have used a phenolic sleeve that would accomplish the same cushioning and not be as fragile as the rubber sleeve is.The head locks solid and takes about 3/4 turn for full engagement to be achieved. The panning lock is smooth and well dampened so even full loose it isn't going to spin freely. On axis loads are solid, though I've only used it with a 300/2.8 on a 5D-III. Off axis it is like other ball heads, apply enough force and creep can be induced. This is why there are L brackets and rotating collars to adjust framing position instead of flopping the head for off axis angles. Overall I find the lock-up solid so unless I am leaning on the lens, it isn't going to move. 400mm should be ok but the bigger faster glass will be testing the limits even though the manufacturer spec's a high rating. For the price, hard to find ball heads with this large a ball surface. That is one other consideration I had for load bearing capabilities among ball heads. You can find larger with an accompanying price.The friction/drag/ball tension adjustment on the center of the main knob allows about 12 clicks of varying load friction. Setting this up is easy for your lens. Counting clicks between settings allows one to keep a mental note where each camera lens combo needs to be adjusted to. Keep in mind friction has to be adjusted when the ball lock is loosened. (I loosen it all the way for this adjustment. Following you can adjust to your preference in drag.)The platform screw base is the main downfall since it can twist with a camera mounted. Mine has a Really Right Stuff B2 Pro II Arcs Swiss type clamp mated to the ball assembly. This is an excellent combination IMO.I liked this combination that I now have two 6.1 heads set-up this way as well as the 2.1 with Kirk clamp for the mini tripod. The 2.1 is fine for P&S uses and lighter weight SLR rigs. The 4.1 will be the next one to replace it. Yes, I like these ball heads and the price is quite acceptable! :)Tripod rigs using Cullmann heads:Gitzo G2220 legs with Cullmann 6.1 and RRS clampRRS TP 243 legs with Cullmann 6.1 and RRS clampRRS TFA-01 legs with Cullmann 2.X and Kirk clamp

I've been looking for a ball head for ages. I even dreamt about it. I finally landed on this as soon as I see the price drops to around 60 quids.First impression is sturdy built head, high quality metal and rubber. Just half a turn the ball locks rock solid. I have a nikon d90 and 85mm 1.4 afd, thus total weight of the setting is about 1.7 kg and the system does not move when locked. Half a turn counterclockwise, the lock is released and the ball moves freely. Ball movement is very smooth, much different from Manfrotto ballhead I often try at Jessops.The friction control has 7 steps or so and it is quite effective for my system.The panoramic turn is rather stiff. I need to apply considerable force to turn. It could be good for heavier setting.The only issue with the head is the rubberised collar since it hinders smooth operation in portrait mode. This issue has been addressed in the latest Concept one series.Overall, I am very happy with this ball head.You need a separate quick release clamp for this head. I stayed away from Cullmann quick release adapter and plate as it might not fit arca swiss plate perfectly. Again, the latest Concept One quick release addresses this issue.

Ich habe mich lange nach einem Kugelkopf mit Arca Swiss Schnellkupplung umgesehen. Nachdem mir der  Benro B2 Kugelkopf (inkl. Wechselplatte)  nicht wirklich zugesagt hat (Friktion war hakelig, Feststellschrauben wackelten wenn gelöst), hab ich mal Cullmann eine Chance gegeben und den Versuch nicht bereut. Hab absichtlich den MB6.1 ohne Schnellwechseleinheit bestellt, da ich eine Wimberley C-12 Schnellkupplung darauf montieren wollte. Die Verarbeitung des Kopfes ist sehr gut, alles läuft sehr satt und auch die Pulverbeschichtung hat bisher noch keine Macken. Die Friktion greift gut und die Kugel dreht sehr sauber in ihrer Halterung. Hält selbst meine 7D mit Batteriegriff und einem Sigma 120-300 OS (zusammen knapp 4,5kg!) noch stabil und ohne nachzusacken. Auch für Makroaufnahmen durchaus brauchbar, da er beim Feststellen kaum verzieht. Die Gummierung der Drehverschlüsse könnte eventuell noch etwas geriffelt sein für mehr Grip, aber das war es auch schon mit den negativen Aspekten. Für alle die einen günstigen, aber guten Kugelkopf suchen, ist der MB6.1 nur zu empfehlen. Dazu würde ich allerdings keine der von Cullmann angebotenen Schnellwechseleinheiten holen, sondern eine, die den Arca Swiss Standard wirklich zu 100% unterstützt (die von Cullmann ist nur bedingt kompatibel). Benro B2 Kugelkopf (inkl. Wechselplatte)

Sehr stabiler und hochwertiger Aluminium Kugelkopf von Cullmann. Durch die Friktionseinstellung ist das Risiko vermindert, dass die Kamera unkontrolliert wegkippen kann wenn der Kugelkopf etwas gelöst wird.