Manfrotto 498RC4 Midi Ball Head with RC4

Same as the 498 but equipped with a quick release RC4 camera plate system with a secondary safety catch. Camera plate has 1/4" male thread. Head to tripod attachment is 3/8" female. Sturdy all-metal construction.

A repositionable ratchet means that the locking lever's action will never be blocked either open or closed by interference with the camera body, tripod shoulder, etc... simply pull the lever outwards and it's free to be positioned more comfortably without affecting the locking mehanism. Then you can continue tightening or loosening the knob.

The double 90 ° groove (one on each side of the head) means switching from landscape to portrait is convenient however you're set up.

A separate lock on the panoramic axis allows for rotation adjustment or panning to be carried out without losing framing.

The compact, quick release plate system fits neatly under small-bodied still cameras up to SLR (even with tele lenses) or small medium format, or under small video cameras or spotting scopes. Its rubber pad gives a good grip without damaging the camera, and its angled sides ensure that it also fits perfectly and tightly into a wide range of Manfrotto heads.

This head features a secondary security lock so you can't accidentally release the plate (and camera) without meaning to. The lock stops the quick release lever from opening fully.