Filter/tripod head recommendations?

[paxtonm]

Greetings,

I'm about to purchase the Zeiss Diascope 85 to replace an aged scope that never was able to resolve anything much above 30x. I've been using a tripod and head that I'm quite satisfied with -- the Bogen Manfrotto Wilderness series tripod (3221wn, I believe). I find it robust, if a bit heavy. The head Ive been using is a pistol grip ball joint, which suited me for a number of reasons. First, I'm quite tall, and the head adds a bit of height. Once one is used to it, getting on a bird is very fast, and once the handle is released, one is securely locked in. I cannot find the head I'd really like, one with one handle that can be twisted to free the head up to pan and swing up and down, then twisted back to lock things in. I've had the 3130 recommended, but what I want is something that can be loosened up in both dimensions with one hand, then quickly locked down. Any thoughts/suggestions on heads?

Also, what's the verdict on clear vs. UV filters? Or is there any consensus?

Thanks so much.

[pete schofield]

Hi If you want a head that can tilt/pan and stay where you put when you let go try a Gimble head. Yes I know they cost more but once you have tried one you will never go back to the normal video type heads.

As you are in the states have a look at the Black Widow by Jobu design.

http://www.jobu-design.com/product%20line.htm

Hope this helps

Pete

[stevo]

Have you looked at a Slik D3 head?the panning handle is of a twist design & is used to control both the pan & tilt I have used both the Kowa 822 & an Opticron 80mm scope with it & both worked fine.

Cheers Steve.