The Manfrotto 324RC2 Joystick head is easy to use, and of a solid build that will stand your images in good stead!While a 3-way tripod head offers precise control, it can be slow and fiddly to use with three handles to adjust and lock. The main alternative for those wanting to work faster is the ball head. While it doesn’t offer quite the same specific control, it’s a lot quicker to use thanks to the single-lock system. A derivation of the ball head idea is the grip ball head, or joystick head as it’s more commonly known. As the name suggests, there’s a joystick-style handle to angle the camera rather than a lock release and the 324RC2 is Manfrotto’s latest model in this range.
Weighing 0.43kg, the Manfrotto 324RC2 has a maximum load of 3.5kg – that’s more than enough to easily take the weight of a high-end D-SLR and fast f/2.8 zoom lens. There’s a bubble spirit level and a quick-release mechanism to free the camera from the head with ease. To stop the camera inadvertently coming free, there’s a secondary safety system to prevent this.
In use there’s a front tilt range of -900 to +900, with a lateral tilt of -190 to +900. This makes it possible to angle the head through a huge range of positions. The contoured handle is comfortable, while pressing down the trigger allows you to unblock, move and position, before releasing the trigger to lock it into position. There’s a friction control wheel that stiffens up the blocking movement depending on the weight of your camera.
The 324RC2 head isn’t quite as compact as a traditional ball head, but it’s still a pretty neat solution, and the total load capacity should keep most people happy. If you’ve got some really heavy kit, then there’s the 327RC2 (£164), which offers a load capacity of 5.5kg.
The Manfrotto 324RC2 is a great head for those who want to work quickly, with minimal fuss when it comes to positioning your camera. The locking system works a treat, holding your kit rigidly in place, and the solid construction means that it can put up with some pretty serious use.
AT A GLANCEPrice: £109
Max Load Capacity: 3.5kg
Quick Release: 200PL-14
Spirit Level: Yes
Weight: 0.43KG
www.manfrotto.co.uk