Need a new ball head for my tripod, Manfrotto 322R not cutting it

[giannid]

So I've been using a manfrotto 055xprob tripod with a pistol grip 322rc head for a few years. At first I liked the setup because I have a few different quick release plates setup with different accessories. One has an american defense quick detach picatinny rail grabber, the other has a hog saddle and have one for my spotting scope. Biggest problem I'm having is the ballhead won't hold my ar10 rifle with thermal scope on it firmly. It keeps wanting to let the gun drop forward or reward unless I put it in a position the weight is balanced. Seems like it use to hold the rifle OK but it's completely went to shit and really makes it an ass ache night hunting coyotes while working a call. Definitely need to get a new head that will support the rifle in any position. Does manfrotto make a better ball head for the purpose? I know the 322 isn't rated for much weight. Looking for options and it's hard to research these since they're all mostly made for cameras. I'm not opposed to switching ball head brands but rather not spend $1000 or more on a specialized shooting tripod/head combo.

 

[Quest1000]

“ I like everything about my head, it just won't hold the weight and it's getting progressively worse, especially in cold weather.”

I must be tired but that right there is funny!

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

I have several in the shop that will do what you need, however none are Manfrotto. Most should fit your tripod, and I have some used ones as well that are a great deal if your very cost sensitive. Give me a shout at 303-443-0718 if you want to talk about ball heads.

 

[502Chevelle]

Leofoto LH55. Fits all the arca stuff. Pans smoothly, plus ball swivel. Locks up hard when you need it to, but has friction controls so you can adjust it how you want. Very very similar to RRS, for a little less money.

 

[BANG...ping]

I was going to buy an Anvil 30, but nobody has it in stock. So I purchased a LH 55 and could not be happier. Smooth controls and it locks up solid. Superb build quality. $208 cheaper than the RRS.

Bang

 

[giannid]

I'm leaning towards the GNN FB-52 Ball Head from hog saddle. Doesn't seem to be a lot of information out there on the LH55. It seems like it carries a little more weight than the fb52. Anyone else using the LH55?

 

[BANG...ping]

Hey Giannid,
PM me and I can give you any info / pics of the ballhead.
Bang

 

[scorpio 25]

Leofoto LH55. Fits all the arca stuff. Pans smoothly, plus ball swivel. Locks up hard when you need it to, but has friction controls so you can adjust it how you want. Very very similar to RRS, for a little less money.

just wondering how you like your LH55 so far ?

 

[abn31c]

Wait for an anvil 30, its worth it. Keep checking MHS cause rumor has it they have some coming.