The RRS BH-55 Ball Head with Lever-Release Clampfrom RRS BH-55 Ball Head with Lever-Release Clampis a 1.9 lb ball head that will support large camera/long lens combinations weighing up to 50 lb. Crafted from aluminum and stainless steel, the BH-55 has all of the features you'd expect from a professional-level head. An over-sized, ergonomic locking knob allows 45-degree tilting in all directions and dual 90-degree drop-notches facilitate quick and accurate switching from the horizontal landscape position to vertical portrait orientation. A separate tension knob is provided to apply the appropriate pressure that safely corresponds to the weight of your camera. A third knob loosens and locks the panning base which is laser-engraved with markers every 2.5 degrees from 0 to 360 degrees. This version of the head has an Arca-type quick release with ARC-LR lever-release that ensures a snug fit for RRS-LOCK-equipped rails and plates. It provides adjustable tension and visual lock confirmation.

Load Capacity: 50 lb    Height: 3.7"    Dual 90° Notches for Portrait Mode    Tension Control    Panning Base with Engraved Degree Marks    Base Diameter 2.9", Ball Diameter 2.2"    Weight: 1.9 lb    Accepts Optional Arca-Type Plates

• Ergonomic design gives superior handling and unsurpassed reliability
• Lowest height profile in its class
• Knobs are captive and uniquely shaped, making operation by feel very intuitive
• Dual 90-degree drop-notches allow maximum flexibility for positioning the camera for portrait-orientation or extreme angle shots
• Micrometer drag tension adjustment is repeatable and absolutely reliable
• Precision panning base is finely laser-engraved at 2.5-degree intervals and features unique drum and brake design for effortless locking
• Laser-engraved millimeter scale offers precise centering and positioning within the clamp jaw
• All components are machined from solid aircraft aluminum or stainless steel for maximum durability and minimum weight

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Can the BH-55 mount on the TVC-24L versa tripod with TA-2-QC column? Do I need a TA-3-PF to make it work?

A: You can mount this head to the TVC-24L without any other accessory needed.

Q: 2. what size panning clamp is this is it the bh40 size?

A: The Really Right Stuff BH-55 Ball Head with Lever-Release Panning Clamp has a 40mm clamp.

Q: 3. RRS BH55 can the locking lever be adjusted in any way to suit other QR plates, on the stem of the lever seems to have threads ?

A: As far as we are aware, RRS heads and clamps only accept arca-swiss style plates. Any modification (whether possible or not) to these devices is therefore at your own risk.

Q: 4. Is the lever release clamp adjustable?

A: Robert, No the lever ins not adjustable. I have used Ready Right Stuff and Kirk Brackets with no problem. the lever is made with a cam over design which as built in adjustabilityin the design. this is the best ball head on the market it'sgreat !!

Q: 5. Are they compatible to the standard acra swiss type place?

A: They seem to fit most arca-swiss plates that are trapazoid in shape (narrower at the top of the plate, and then wider at the bottom). As long as the clamps can hold the plate in place , you should be fine. I use one from a meFoto which is of the arca-swiss type and it works fine (mine is a screw-lock but I think the latch locks work the same too (the advantage of the screw-lock is the clamp can adjust to the plate as its locking it into place. Not sure if the latch lock can do this or not).

Q: 6. I already own the RRS B2-LR II panning clamp. Could I just buy the BH-55 head without clamp and use my own panning clamp?

A: Yes, you can. Click on the link below to view the head without clamp; https://bhpho.to/2ZaGqqL

Q: 7. Is it compatible with a Manfrotto 055 carbon fiber tripod?

A: The RRS BH-55 lever release panning clamp style ballhead will mount without issue via its 3/8"-16 mounting point to the Manfrotto 055's 3/8"-16 mounting screw.

Q: 8. I’m picking up a Sony a7riv and plan to get a Weebill S for it. I want one quick release plate for both this item and the Weebill. Which plate do I get?

A: Any plate that is Arca Swiss compatible will work. You can go with a RRS plate or any other brand. Click on the link below to view your options; https://bhpho.to/3aUDYbK

Q: 9. Is this reliable for shooting with a heavy lens in portrait mode?

A: Yes the Really Right Stuff BH-55 Ball Head with Lever-Release Panning Clamp is very reliable and strong and can hold a camera and heavy lens in portrait mode. The L bracket or quick release plate needs to be purchased separately.

Q: 10. Any word on whether or not the RRS PC-LR (lever-release panning clamp) and the Kirk BH-1 are compatible? I've asked reps from both companies and have not been given a definite yes/no. Thanks!

A: If your question is about RRS PC-LR and Kirk BH-1 can take the same plate you have on you camera, the answer is YES they can as long as the plate is Arca-type. No guarantee for non-arca-type.