Having purchased a set of Gizo GT3540LS tripod legs I spent some time looking for a ballhead that would suit my needs.  After some research I decided to go for the Really Right Stuff (RRS) BH-55 ballhead.  As I couldn't find a UK distributor I purchased direct from the manufacture in California USA.  It was easy enough to purchase what I needed from their online store.  With the ballhead I also purchased the camera plate BD2 for the D2x and the replacement plate LCF-10 to replace the stock Nikon lens collar for the AF-S VR 70-200mm f2.8.

After collecting the package from Parcel Force and paying the excess duty (Ouch!!) I carefully opened the box.  I was surprised to find that the ballhead was safely protected by a fitted neoprene case, it is suggested by the manufactures that this case be used to protect the ballhead during transit, Not having purchased the L bracket for the D2x it was a useful additional feature that the head had not one but two drop notches to enable the mounted camera to be position vertically.  

The main locking knob is large and easy to turn, it's filled with stainless steel ball-bearings allowing for a smooth and precise control of the smallest adjustment.  Once the ball is locked in place it remains locked even when the front heavy 28-70mm/f2.8 is mounted to the D2x, there isn't the slightest dip forward which was a problem with my old Benbo Ball and Socket head.  A smaller drag knob enables you to control the amount of resistance you get when positioning the ball, which is particularly useful when you have a longer and heavier lens attached..

All the components of this excellent ballhead are machined from solid aircraft aluminum or stainless steel ensuring maximum durability and minimum weight.  The ballhead weighs in at 861g (1.9lbs).

The large release lever (B2 AS II) allows for fast and easy mounting of the camera or lens plates and holds them fast when closed, there really is no movement at all once the lever is locked.  The panning base is laser etched at 2.5 degree intervals and once again once the panning knob is tighten the base stays in place.

Finally the head has a 23kg (50lbs) load capacity which is totally adequate for my use and will surely hold solid any camera and lens combination I'm ever going to want to attach to it.  Including the 200-400mm AF-S VR f4 when I finally acquire one....

This ballhead is truly, in my opion,  a Rolls Royce amongst it's peers, both it's build quality and precise manufacture is excellent.  It's ergonomic design ensures ease of use and it's useful add-ons (such as the small sprit level on the plate) make it a must in the field.  All in all making it the perfect partner to my equally impressive Gitzo GT3540LS Tripod (review).

www.reallyrightstuff.com