Manfrotto 405 Rotule à crémaillère

Wow, I wish I'd bought this years ago! My previous Manfrotto head was excellent but I'd always wanted a geared version. The 405 Pro is so easy to use, I've used it on several property shoots over the last week and been really impressed, not only with the accuracy but how simple I found it to adapt to. After using the same head daily for 10 years I thought it might take a while to get used to the levers being in a different place but I found it really intuitive. My only criticism, as with all Manfrotto kit, is the mounting plate; I have 3 full frame cameras, all with different plates which can be very frustrating!

I knew for a while that my ball head is cumbersome in making precision adjustments when shooting landscapes and the solution is the Manfrotto 405 Geared Head. My reluctance was my ball head had the Arca Swiss quick release and I have a significant investment in the quick release plates for my camera bodies and long lenses. I finally resolved to purchase the Manfrotto 405 and fit it with the Kirk QR-AB1 with Quick Release Clamp and give it a shot. I am so sorry I did not do this sooner. The 405 works like a charm and all my cameras and lenses easily mate and function with the adapter. The 405 is robust and easy to use. Making large adjustments takes a little getting used to but the fine adjustments are what this head is all about. It had no problem handling a Canon 1dx w/ 400 2.8. I would recommend this head to anyone in need of such a device.

This is great. Sturdy, Strong, very well made. Easy to use.

I blame myself for making a rash choice here. I use this with my Canon 5DS. From day one (about 5 months ago) I gave it the benefit of the doubt as I struggled to come to terms with the jerky gears.......and the extremely stiff adjustable movements. Not sure whether to blame the product, myself or the sales assistant that extolled its 'virtues'.

This head has everything I need for shooting architecture. While it may not be up to the quality level of a Cube it's definitely stable and has accurate fine movements. A bargain compared to the price of the Cube