To select a tripod head that is heavy duty enough to do an effective job, yet not so weighty that it is uncomfortable to carry could be a challenge. To help you in this quest, we review some of the best heavy duty tripod heads.
Let’s begin with a brief overview.
Quick comparison: best heavy duty tripod head (stability in wind)
Manfrotto MVH500AH Fluid Video Head
This reliable, high-quality Manfrotto tripod head has a fully adjustable counterbalance ensuring precise control.
Best overall heavy duty tripod head
Neewer Heavy Duty Tripod Fluid Drag Pan Head
Versatile and well balanced, Neewer’s pan head could be a practical and affordable choice for general birding.
Best value heavy duty tripod head for scopes
Benro S6 Video Tripod Head
One of the leading brands offers this smooth and easily operable tripod head with counterbalance and lockable pan and tilt.
Best heavy duty tripod head if money is no object
Manfrotto MVH502AH Video Head
There’s adaptability and an intuitive feel to fine-tuning this solid, stable model from Manfrotto, which features variable drag and a changeable counterbalance.
Best heavy duty head for XL scopes or digiscoping
How we selected the top picks for the best heavy duty tripod head
This article is aimed at those seeking the best tripod head for:
- digiscoping
- stability
- large lenses/big spotting scopes
- windy conditions
Many experienced birders find that heavier tripod set-ups offer more stability and will noticeably reduce the vibration through their spotting scopes. Stability is a major bonus to spotting scopes.
The steadier your spotting scope is, the better the resulting view. This is especially true when zoomed to higher magnifications and for larger optics with objective lenses in excess of say 75-80mm.
Why go heavyweight?
Heavyweight tripod heads offer more stability. While the kit is less comfortable to carry, there will also be less vibration through the spotting scope.
Investing in a heavy duty tripod head will help to ensure a spotting scope stays safe. Adverse weather conditions, especially wind, make spotting scopes particularly vulnerable.
If you are frequently exposed to windy conditions, for example on the coast or up on hilly terrain, a heavy duty tripod head and legs may benefit your viewing and maintain your scope upright.
Prioritize your kit
No bird watcher wants a tripod set-up that is off balance and easily blown over. You want to safely support your valuable optics without risk of damage, and to avoid the potential expense of repairing or replacing the scope.
With this in mind, we’ll introduce you to some of the best heavy duty tripod heads available and their helpful features.
Key features to look for in your tripod head are:
- a counterbalance system to hold the spotting scope in position even when steeply tilted
- precise control of the drag resistance to allow free movement when repositioning
- smooth movement when panning and tilting
- a consistently reliable locking system
- sturdy construction for extra stability
- attention to details, such as an integrated leveling system, an adjustable panning handle, durable dials and knobs
It is also worth considering the size and weight of any equipment you carry. Of the most value is a tripod head that detaches easily from the scope and, if necessary, from the tripod legs.
Weight considerations
The weight is a delicate balance. While you want the tripod set-up to be heavy enough to provide sufficient stability, consider also the distance that you are likely to be carrying it. Or even if you’ll need to pack it for travel within a certain baggage weight allowance.
To get a detailed overview of the different types of tripod heads, we have an in-depth article discussing what to look for when choosing your tripod head:
How to choose a tripod head for a spotting scope
Reviews: best heavy duty tripod head (stability in wind)
Having had an overview of the key features to look out for in an effective tripod head, let’s now look in depth at which models might be suitable for you.
Best overall heavy duty tripod head
Main Features of the Manfrotto MVH500AH Fluid Video Head
The Manfrotto MVH500AH Fluid Video Head offers impressive features. Here are a few of them, just to spark your interest!
- Bubble level and precision control handle.
- Wide platform provides a sturdy base
- Long quick-release plate
- Pre-set spring-loaded counterbalance system (suitable to 5.3 pounds)
Specifications
Weight 2 pounds
Maximum payload 11 pounds
Connection 1/4″ and 3/8″ attachment
Safety lock Yes
Quick release Yes
Pros
- Counterweight suitable for scopes up to about 85mm.
- The counter-balance system keeps the scope stable at the angle you leave it.
- The panning handle attaches to either side of the head.
- Effective drag and lock facilities on the tilt to cope with heavy scopes.
- Top quality, well established brand.
Cons
- Counterbalance is pre-set at 5.3 pounds. So for a very large/heavy scope, the 502 might suit better (its counterbalance goes up 3 to 4 pounds).
- Drag is not adjustable.
Manfrotto MVH500AH Fluid Video Head Overview
The MVH500AH comes from one of the best-known brands for tripods and tripod heads. Manfrotto designs tend to be reliable and of high quality. You’d be buying from a company that is likely to be around for quite some time yet.
Smooth drag – but fixed resistance
This fluid video head handles smoothly and precisely. Exactly what you want from your tripod head. Our only gripe is the lack of adjustable drag.
To add this option, you might consider taking a look at our top pick for tripod head, Manfrotto’s 502. It’s the next up in this range and will take more weight and also offer you the ability to change the resistance on the tilt and pan movements.
The MVH500AH handles an 11-pound maximum load
Sticking with the MVH500AH model, however, will still get you up to 11 pounds of maximum payload. To give a rough guide, sizewise this includes scopes around 85 mm. The counterweight spring is set around five pounds.
Some tripod heads can end up with extra play in the controls over time. With this Manfrotto, though, both the drag and the lock facilities on the tilt are secure. They certainly feel strong enough to cope consistently with scopes at the heavier end of this spectrum.
If the fixed drag feature is sufficient for your needs, the Manfrotto MVH500AH is our pick of the tripod head options to cope with heavier spotting scopes.
Best value heavy duty tripod head
Main Features of the Neewer Heavy Duty Tripod Fluid Drag Pan Head
The Neewer Heavy Duty Tripod Fluid Drag Pan Head offers impressive features. Here are a few of them, just to spark your interest!
- Variable fluid drag on tilt movements
- Fixed pan drag on 360 degrees of motion with indexing
- Sliding balance plate with safety system
- Flat base for multiple support combinations
Specifications
Weight 2 pounds
Maximum payload 17.6 pounds
Connection 3/8″-16 threaded mounting hole; included 3/8″-16 to 1/4″-20 bushing
Safety lock Yes
Quick release Yes
Pros
- Holds position effectively
- Wide tilt range of 90 to -70°
- Telescoping pan handle attaches to either side
- Includes built-in bubble levels
Cons
- Some parts are plastic
- Resistance is not very firm
Neewer Heavy Duty Tripod Fluid Drag Pan Head Overview
For this price range the Neewer performs really well. Some of it is plastic but for the important parts the solid aluminum alloy adds some heft without feeling clunky. So it stands up well to heavier spotting scopes.
The head weighs a shade under 28 ounces. The in-built bubble levels help to check the rig is straight – especially helpful for digiscopers.
Secured by a safety lock
There’s no worry about it dropping off the mount as a security lock keeps it attached. It mounts via the standard ¼ inch and ⅜ inch screws, so can be interchanged readily, using an adapter if necessary.
There’s also a quick release plate that seems pretty similar in function to more expensive brands.
Movements glide well, and despite a lack of strong resistance the Neewer holds position well. Changing direction is also smooth and the length of the handle is just right.
Good at keeping in position
Horizontally, it pans smoothly across the whole 360 degrees. Vertically you can take it from -70 degrees up to 90 degrees. At either angle it holds in position well.
Overall, the versatility and balance of this heavy duty head are sound. The only thing that’s hard to judge so far is its longevity.
That aside, this seems a practical and affordable choice for general birding that should meet the requirements of most spotting scope users.
Best heavy duty tripod head if money is no object
Main Features of the Benro S6 Video Tripod Head
The Benro S6 Video Tripod Head offers impressive features. Here are a few of them, just to spark your interest!
- Continuous pan and tilt drag – adjustable on the tilt
- Four-step counterbalance system
- Sliding quick release plate for quick connection and set up
- Rear-located bubble level with illumination
Specifications
Weight 2.6 pounds
Maximum payload 13.2 pounds
Connection 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch mounting plates
Safety lock Yes
Quick release Yes
Pros
- Choices of counterbalance settings
- Firm pan and tilt locks
- The tilt drag can be tailored to your preference
- Panning handle can switch between left- and right-handed use
Cons
- Locks could do with being more firm
- Set-up mounting of the quick release plate can be tricky, though once fitted it deploys okay
- The pan drag is not adjustable, only the tilt
Benro S6 Video Tripod Head Overview
Benro’s S-Series runs from the S2 through the S4 and S6 to the S8. The Benro S6 is a good video head that is in the middle of the S series.
Although it may not be quite as sophisticated as the models at the more expensive end of the range, this product has advantages over its companions lower in the S series.
The maximum load capacity is 13.2 pounds. This converts to 6 kilograms, which is what gives the Benro S6 its name.
It also highlights that the S6 can cope with more weight than its peers in a similar price range.
Benro S range – suits all sizes of scope
As you move up the Benro S range, the payload gets larger and the tripod heads are set up to cope with heavier optics. The S8 deals with optics up to 8kg, or 17.6 pounds.
The plate is lockable so that you don’t lose the spotting scope off the top of it (always helpful!), plus there’s a release button on the opposite side of the head. It feels secure but also pops out easily when you want it to.
One point about this button is that it is made of plastic – Benro’s later model, the S6PRO upgrades this to metal. It’s a significant advantage to a simple but important component.
Getting set up with the QR plate
If you want spare plates it does also fit the Manfrotto plates (501PL). There are two options for the attachment – either ¼ inch or ⅜.
Getting the plate attached in the first place could be tricky. Once on, the whole set-up can be quickly deployed.
The weight of the tripod head by itself is 2.65 pounds, which is reasonable for its payload.
On the S6 there are four settings of counterbalance. They run from zero (no counterbalance at all) through three successive steps (4.4lbs, 9.9lbs, 13.2lbs).
It’s best to use these weights suggested by Benro as a more of a guide than a definite rule. For most kit, it’s worth experimenting with the particular load of your spotting scope or digiscoping equipment, and see which suits the balance best.
Fluid drag gives a smooth control on tilt
Around the other side of the head is the fluid drag control for the tilt. With this control in action, the tilt gives a really good smooth movement.
Easy-to-operate panning level
The 360° fluid pan feature on this camera makes it easy to follow birds in flight or to capture smooth digiscoping footage. Plus, the panning handle allows for even more precise control over the camera’s movements.
The panning handle telescopes out and can be set to whichever length you prefer between three to six inches. Pan motion is quite smooth, especially with this extra length handle for a fine touch to the movement.
Pan has fixed resistance
One disadvantage is that, unlike on the tilt, there is no adjustable resistance, only the lock and unlock on the pan.
A nifty little touch for birders who might be out setting up pre-dawn is that the bubble level lights up for use. There’s an illumination button that lights it up. It’s handy for use in lower light conditions or the kind of dense shade that you might experience in a forest.
Helpfully, its location also means that it is readily viewable whichever side the panning handle is mounted on. Left handers are not discriminated against here! (Unfortunately this is not the case for some other brands.)
Convenient illuminated bubble level
While being spot-on level might not be crucial for normal birding, where being more or less level will be okay for panning and scanning, it’s more important if you are attaching a phone or camera for digiscoping. So the extra visible bubble level is a nice feature.
This attention to small details makes the Benro stand out from competition in a similar price bracket. It also adds confidence in the overall design and build quality offered by the company.
Overall it offers value and quality
This fluid tripod head looks the part and delivers a great performance too.
The S6 tripod head is not without its faults, and these may be helpful to identify here. They point towards some of the improvements that Benro have planned for in their upgraded S6PRO.
On the S6, there can be play in the pan and tilt locks. If these were tightened up, along with improvements to the counterbalance the S6 would be even better.
That said, overall, the S6 is a good fluid video head that offers a great performance for its size, weight and price.
Best heavy duty tripod head for extra large scopes or digiscoping
Main Features of the Manfrotto MVH502AH Video Head
The Manfrotto MVH502AH Video Head with Flat Base offers impressive features. Here are a few of them, just to spark your interest!
- Variable fluid drag on pan and tilt movements
- Fixed counterbalance system
- Sliding plate for quick connection and set up
- Flat base for multiple support combinations
Specifications
Weight 3.74 pounds
Maximum payload 15.4 pounds
Connection 1/4″-20
Safety lock Yes
Quick release Yes
Pros
- Tilt is easy and smooth to operate, with adjustable drag.
- Both the pan and tilt are lockable.
- Large resistance controls are
easy to grip and operate. - Resistance dials can be finely adjusted.
Cons
- The pan knob is less accessible, at the back.
- The resistance of the counterbalance spring is not adjustable.
Manfrotto MVH502AH Video Head Overview
A fluid video head with adjustable drag on the pan and tilt features, this is an easy tripod to get used to.
The panning handle can be attached on either side. Depending on which side you chose, you might have to release the long QR plate in the opposite direction to usual.
The quick release plate has a safety lock, so that the plate does not release even if the dial is off. Good to know that your spotting scope will remain safe!
Finely tuned drag on the pan and tilt movements
The substantial metallic red ring at the base adds or removes drag to the pan. There’s a dial on the side for the tilt.
Both these controls of the pan and tilt resistance are a good size. The first advantage of this is that they are easy to grip and turn.
Additionally, because the dial is large, it means the resistance can be more finely adjusted. This allows for a greater degree of control over the drag.
Maintain the scope’s position with the counterbalance
The counterbalance, to hold larger, longer spotting scopes in place using their center of gravity, is a handy additional feature. This adds to the sense of using a stable piece of equipment. Your spotting scope will also be sitting on a wide, sturdy base.
Manfrotto has created a solidly reliable and smooth moving fluid video head. Its features add ease and control to the use of your spotting scope.
The Manfrotto brand manufacture tripod heads that are ideal for bird watchers looking to mount their spotting scope on a two-way head that moves only across the horizontal and vertical axes. There are lots to choose from, but Which is the best two-way tripod head for birding?
Which is the best, most stable heavy duty tripod head for birding? Solved!
When you’ve invested in a high-quality spotting scope, to ensure you get the best from your optics, a tripod is necessary. And not just any old tripod.
The best tripod for a big spotting scope is a heavy duty tripod, because it has to hold the spotting scope steady. Not only does the tripod have to be solid enough to withstand disturbance from the elements, but it also has to minimize movement from when it might be touched by the user.
Whether it is deliberate contact to reposition the scope or an accidental bump, any motion might result in vibrations in the image. That is particularly important to bear in mind if you have a very high-powered zoom, or if you are doing digiscoping.
This is our overall round-up featuring The best tripod heads for birding spotting scopes
Contents
- 1 Quick comparison: best heavy duty tripod head (stability in wind)
- 2 How we selected the top picks for the best heavy duty tripod head
- 3 Reviews: best heavy duty tripod head (stability in wind)
- 4 Best overall heavy duty tripod head
- 5 Best value heavy duty tripod head
- 6 Best heavy duty tripod head if money is no object
- 7 Best heavy duty tripod head for extra large scopes or digiscoping
- 8 Which is the best, most stable heavy duty tripod head for birding? Solved!