Arca-Swiss Monoball Z1 Ballhead Review Round-Up

arca-swiss-monoball-z1-ballheadFor many years, the Arca-Swiss B1 Ballhead was the standard by which all other ballheads were judged. The Arca-Swiss Monoball Z1 Ballhead replaces this model and delivers the same performance in a smaller size and at a lower price. There is not much to dislike about this change. Although strong, the Z1 is still precise and smooth. The main friction control remains easy to turn well past the point of the ball being locked tight (for any use I have at least) and is indexed for visual confirmation and repeatability. When making adjustments, the transition from free to locked is very smooth – small, precise changes can easily be made up to the point of locking. The main friction control knob has a small amount of play in it but only if you firmly pull out on it – I don’t notice this in normal use as I have no reason to pull out on it. Unique to the Arca-Swiss Monoball Z1 Ballhead is the aspherical ball. As the load on the head is moved away from center, the effects of gravity increase. To offset the higher gravitational effect, more ball tension is needed. Conventional ballheads require correcting tension control adjustments to be made. The Arca-Swiss Monoball Z1 Ballhead, because of its elliptical ball, automatically adjusts to handle the off-center load. In other words, the tension automatically gets tighter as you move the load off-center. And it works as advertised. Very nice. Overall, Fit, finish and functionality of the Z1 are exceptional. The Arca-Swiss Monoball Z1 Ballhead is currently my primary ballhead. This is a smooth, refined and solid camera/lens support. READ FULL REVIEW AT DigitalPicture.com

If you own or have used this tripod, let us know what you think! Leave your comments and thoughts below.

Get information and user reviews for this tripod from Amazon: ARCA-SWISS Monoball Z1 SP Single Pan with Classic Quick Set Device , Supports 122 lbs.

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  1. I need an extra piece that screws onto the camera for the arcs swiss mono ball

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