Manfrotto 486RC2 Compact Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System

Manfrotto 486RC2 Compact Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System
by Manfrotto

Manfrotto 486RC2 Compact Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System
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Category: Digital Camera
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Digital product summary information

Manufacturer: Manfrotto
Release Date: 2006-04-14
Model: 486RC2
Product features:
  • Compact ball head equipped with a 3157N quick-release camera plate
  • Strong die-cast construction, precision-machined aluminum housing
  • Extremely hard phenolic resin ball provides smooth movements across all tilt positions
  • Single ratchet locking knob for 360-degree pan and a double groove for +90 to -90-degree tilt movements
  • Plate has 1/4-20-inch male thread, and head to tripod attachment is 3/8-inch female
Accessories:

Digital camera reviews of Manfrotto 486RC2 Compact Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System

Digital camera Review: Worth the money
Summary: 4 Stars

I upgraded my tripod to a Manfrotto 190CXPRO4 and needed a head. I knew that I wanted a ball head with the RC2 connector plate. I chose this one and am glad that I did. It holds the camera like a rock on the top of the tripod.

First, you attach the mounting plate to your camera. I would suggest getting extra plates if you have multiple cameras, or have zooms with their own mounts. The RC2 locking plate attached quickly. There is a release lever, and then a second small safety lever. When the safety is engaged, the quick release lever will not move. This will prevent the lever from snagging and your camera releasing at an unplanned moment.

There is only a single lever on the ballhead. Release it a little, and the entire head will rotate on the base. This will allow you to take a panoramic shot. Release it more, and the ball will have less resistance and the camera can be positioned. Lock it down, and the camera is rock steady. I did not detect any movement with the camera when locking down the head.

Overall I'm pleased with this purchase. I would have liked to seen a separate release for panoramic shots (available on the next model up). A couple of accessories that you may need/want would be extra quick release plates. Useful if you have multiple cameras or zooms with their own mounts. Also would be a hotshoe mount level. I level the head, but I have no way of knowing if the camera is level.

Summary of Manfrotto 486RC2 Compact Ball Head with RC2 Rapid Connect System

Same as the 486 but equipped with a 3157N quick-release camera plate. The 486RC2 is a direct replacement of the 3413QR and 3055S ProBall and Heavy-Duty Double Action Ball Heads. A strong die-cast construction, precision machined aluminum housing, and an extremely hard phenolic resin ball provides smooth movements across all tilt positions. The 486RC2 features a single ratchet locking knob for a 360 degrees pan and a double groove for a 90 degrees tilt movements. Camera plate has a 1/4-20 inch male thread and head to tripod attachment is 3/8 inch female.

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