iOptron 3305A SkyTracker Ball Head (Black)

What more can I say about this product? I use this for astro-imaging where stability is key. It is solid as a rock and easily carries the load of a Nikkor 180mm ED (old style metal lens, weighs around 2 pounds just for the lens), plus the ADM rail I use to attach the camera and stabilize the lens, the camera body itself, plus dew heaters on the end of the lens. A person can easily use this ball head with any ADM or Vixen style rail, so it can be attached to any equatorial mount with a Vixen style dovetail. I am now able to compose my shot (i.e., I am able to rotate the camera and lens stabilizer rail assembly around to get the perfect composition) without resorting to inferior techniques such as the use of a rail and ring assembly. That technique is just too unstable and unreliable or my liking.The ball head is smooth in all directions. It easily tightens up on the ball, and there is no slippage even with the heavy weight (i.e., around 5 pounds) mounted on top. The quick release plate is one of the best I have seen. It is larger than normal, but the ball head itself will accept any universal quick release mounting plate. The fit and finish is superb, The ball head itself has a substantial weight to it, and it just feels like it is built to last. You can pay less, and you can pay more for an item like this, but $52 is just about right.

Great ball head for the money!

I am in the process of returning this head. The adjustability of this head is questionable. When I tighten the azimuth knob, my camera moves and the subject is no longer in the center of the frame. You need to aim off center and hope the subject is properly framed after you tighten the knob.

This is a great addition to my arsenal!,Steady and sturdy.

Good solid ball head. Lightweight and Smooth and easy to adjust.

I bought this ball head to put on my slider and it works great tightens down nicely doesn't slip. Great value

The prior review of this product was for a different product. I apologize for my mistake. This product works great no complaints.

Very well built, solid construction, the ball joint and azimuth rotation are very smooth, the locking mechanisms hold firmly. It looks like it will give excellent service for a long time.