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Protective anodize plating shields aluminum from corrosion and mild abrasion.
Clean with a soft cloth or rinse with fresh water. Dry thoroughly. Do not submerge the ball head.
RRS ball heads are factory lubricated and sealed. No user lubrication is required. Do not lubricate the ball.
Steps to attach the ball head to a tripod, including tightening the pan lock knob and securing the ball head.
Instructions for pulling, rotating, and re-seating the T-Lever to change its position for optimal use.
This manual describes the Really Right Stuff (RRS) Ball Head, a precision-engineered accessory designed to provide stable and flexible camera positioning for photographers. The RRS Ball Head is crafted to exemplify the best in craftsmanship and quality, offering a reliable and durable solution for various photographic needs.
The RRS Ball Head serves as a crucial interface between a camera and a tripod, allowing for smooth and precise adjustments to the camera's angle and orientation. Its primary function is to securely hold a camera in place while providing the flexibility to quickly change its position. The ball head features a spherical joint that enables multi-directional movement, allowing photographers to tilt, pan, and rotate their camera with ease.
The core components of the RRS Ball Head include a RRS 1.5" Dovetail Clamp, a Drag Set Knob, a Pan Lock Knob, a Panning Base, and a Main Lock Knob (or Main T-Lock Lever for certain models). The RRS 1.5" Dovetail Clamp is designed to securely attach a camera or lens plate, ensuring a stable connection. The Drag Set Knob allows users to adjust the friction of the ball movement, providing a customizable level of resistance for smooth operation. The Pan Lock Knob controls the rotation of the panning base, enabling precise horizontal adjustments without affecting the ball's tilt. The Panning Base itself features degree markings, facilitating accurate panoramic photography. Finally, the Main Lock Knob or Main T-Lock Lever is responsible for locking the ball in place, ensuring the camera remains firmly positioned once the desired angle is achieved.
The RRS Ball Head is available in different models, specifically the BH-55, BH-40, and BH-30, each designed to cater to varying equipment weights and user preferences. While the fundamental principles of operation remain consistent across models, there may be slight variations in features, such as the presence of a Main Lock Knob versus a Main T-Lock Lever, or the applicability of the drag set adjustment.
The RRS Ball Head is designed for intuitive and efficient use, offering several features that enhance the photographic experience.
Attaching the Ball Head to a Tripod: To set up the ball head, first, tighten the pan lock knob to secure the panning base. This prevents unwanted rotation during the initial mounting process. Next, screw the ball head onto the 3/8"-16 threaded stud located on top of the tripod. It is important to tighten the ball head snugly to ensure stability, but care should be taken not to over-torque it, as this could make removal difficult later.
Repositioning the Main Lock T-Lever (Non-applicable to BH-55): For models equipped with a Main Lock T-Lever, users can reposition it for optimal ergonomics. This is achieved by pulling the T-Lever out, rotating it to the desired new position, and then re-seating it back in. This feature allows photographers to customize the lever's orientation to avoid interference with other equipment or to suit their grip preference.
Adjusting the Drag Set (Non-applicable to BH-30): The drag set feature provides a crucial level of control over the ball's movement. To adjust it, first, remove your camera or hold it securely in place. Then, loosen the Main Lock Knob or T-Lever by rotating it counter-clockwise. Next, tighten the Main Lock Knob or T-Lever clockwise to your preferred amount of resistance. This sets the base friction for the ball. Finally, turn the Drag Set Knob in the direction of the arrow until it stops, then loosen the Main Lock Knob or T-Lever. It is critical to remember that the drag-set knob should NOT be used for locking or unlocking the ball, as doing so will damage the ball head. The drag set is specifically for adjusting the friction, not for securing the camera.
Using the Panning Base: The panning base allows for smooth and precise horizontal rotation, ideal for panoramic shots or tracking moving subjects. To use it, simply loosen the Pan Lock Knob. Once loosened, the ball head body can be rotated around the base to the desired position. After achieving the desired angle, lock the Pan Lock Knob to secure the panning base. The degree markings on the panning base provide visual cues for precise rotational adjustments.
The RRS Ball Head's design emphasizes ease of use, allowing photographers to quickly and confidently adjust their camera's position to capture the perfect shot. The robust locking mechanisms ensure that once set, the camera remains stable, even with heavy lenses.
Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your RRS Ball Head. Really Right Stuff provides clear guidelines to help users keep their equipment in excellent condition.
General Care: RRS ball heads are finished with a protective anodize plating. This plating is designed to protect the aluminum components from corrosion and mild abrasion, contributing to the ball head's durability. However, it is important to note that this finish will not protect the ball head from damage caused by scraping against or dropping on hard surfaces like rocks or concrete. Users should handle their ball head with care to prevent such impacts.
Cleaning: Regular cleaning is vital, especially after use in challenging environments. If the ball head becomes fouled with dry dust and dirt, these can typically be blown off or wiped away with a soft cloth. For more substantial grime, such as mud or salt water, the ball head should be lightly rinsed off with fresh water and then thoroughly dried. It is crucial to NOT submerge the ball head during washing. Additionally, avoid directing a high-pressure stream of water at the ball head, as this could force water into internal mechanisms.
If fine sand or grit fouls a knob, do not attempt to remove the knob. Instead, simply run a gentle stream of water around the knob while rotating it one-half turn back and forth. This action helps to dislodge the debris without requiring disassembly.
Lubrication: RRS ball heads are lubricated at the factory, and any parts that require lubrication are sealed. This means that NO LUBRICATION IS REQUIRED BY THE USER. Attempting to lubricate the ball itself is strongly discouraged, as this will decrease the lock-up capacity of the ball head. To maintain smooth action, the primary focus should be on keeping the ball free from contamination rather than applying external lubricants.
By following these maintenance guidelines, users can ensure their RRS Ball Head continues to perform reliably and smoothly for many years, upholding the quality and craftsmanship for which Really Right Stuff is known. The product is also backed by a five-year guarantee against defects in materials and workmanship for the original purchaser, further underscoring its commitment to quality.
General| Type | Ball Head |
|---|---|
| Ball Diameter | 55 mm |
| Quick Release Plate | Yes |
| Panning Base | Yes |
| Separate Panning Lock | Yes |
| Bubble Level | Yes |
| Panning | 360° |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Load Capacity | 55 lb (25 kg) |
| Base Diameter | 60 mm |
| Tilt | 90° |
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