Benro GH-2 Gimbal Head Review.

[sk66]

I've recently upgraded a lot of my gear which included adding a Sigma 300-800mm f/5.6. This lens with the D3 is easily a #15 combination and was just too awkward for use with my Acratech GV-2 ball head (A great ball head with a very usable gimbal function for shorter lenses).

So it was time to get a Gimbal....I looked at many options and decided I needed to go BIG. I decided not to mess around with getting by with a smaller Gimbal, I wanted Strength!

I considered the Wimberley WH200 ($600), the Induro GHB-2 ($490), and the Benro GH-2 ($370). I've had a Benro CF tripod for years now and I've been happy with it, plus I'm cheap, so I went with the Benro.
It's the same as the Induro GHB-2 distributed by the MAC group (Mamiya, Pocket Wizard, etc), and is comparable to the Wimberley WH200.

I've had chance to use the Wimberley for a short time, and I liked it well enough, but I'm cheap....
After using the Benro for a week, I can honestly say I don't see any notable difference between it and the Wimberley. The thing is ROCK SOLID and smooth in every adjustment. It IS heavy, but so is the Wimberley. I've been able to adjust it perfectly for effortless tilt/pan function.
The knobs are large, comfortable, and easy to use with "1/4 turn" functionality.....My only complaint is when new the pan adjustment knob was just too finicky...from no -drag to locked was very little turn of the knob....It is still finicky, but seems to be breaking in... With either the pan or tilt set to no resistance there is no notable axial or radial play in any bearing.

When using the lens at 800mm w/ 2x converter (1600mm), my biggest issue now is my tripod and long lens technique.

I am very pleased with the GH-2 and I cannot see any reason to spend more for "the same thing".

YMMV

[Minnesota_Steve]

I am extremely happy with my lighter weight Benro tripod. Good for up to a 70-200 f/2.8 lens. But I am getting the big guns - 600mmm etc. Which Benro tripod do you use?