The Perfect Wildlife Gimbal (for me)
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- Опубліковано 11 сер 2022
- I reviewed 15 gimbal heads before coming to the conclusion on what is the right one for me.
This video features some highlights PLUS recommendations at various price points.
Affiliate links below (these cost you no more, but help support the channel):
Promedia Gear Katana or Katana Jr : www.promediagear.com/?aff=36
Links to Products shown and mentioned
Robus Tripod: bhpho.to/3DGHyDo
Leofoto Gimbal; bhpho.to/3MaDiAH
Benro GH2: bhpho.to/3pnZZbB
Benro GH5C: bhpho.to/3uPjflx
WImberly WH200: bhpho.to/3KQ6WuF
Fotopro E6H: bhpho.to/3M7ILby
Fotopro E9H: bhpho.to/3LT53xP
Thanks for the valuable information I will get the Benro GH2 on Monday to go with my Benro tripod you an upcoming trip to the UK. Once again thanks for the incredible wealth of information
Scott, thanks for the reviews on the different price point gimbals and decided to buy the Leophoto PG-1 with the current discount and your remarks are spot on why you liked the design. The ability to self adjust the tension was a nice feature vs locked or not locked. Very smooth rotation and lighter than my Movo aluminum gimbal version. Your comment about under $100 and expensive gear got me interested in shopping. I had a good discount on the original $412 price, but not as good as one of the other viewers comments. Works great with Z9 and 500f4G!! Wish it was US made like PMG, Wimberley but it meets my budget needs. Thanks for your input and time invested in the video production!! Keep up the great information!!
Thanks Mike, I think you made good decision.
Congratulations! An EXCELLENT series on tripod gimbals! I've been happy for years with my Jobu jr3 on Gitzo and FLM legs, but if I ever graduate to something larger than my Leica 100-400mm on OM-1, it would have to be to the ProMediaGear Katana Jr, I agree 1,000% with your evaluations and conclusions.
thanks!
A few weeks ago I did buy the Leofoto PG-1 and do find it very adjustable on the swing motion and panning with the tension nobs you'd mentioned that it has. Thanx for the all arounf info on these gimbals. Be well
Thanks for the follow up !
Congrats Wayne! A fine Gimbal, enjoy!
I actually ended up choosing the ProMedia Gear Katana Jr for much the same reason as you did. I found your approach and commentary of the extensive review to be excellent and leave with confidence that I choose a Gimbal that works best for me. And think there are several choices that would work well for me. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Glen, I continue to enjoy both the Katana Jr and the GT2. Part of me wishes I had gotten the Katana, it is just a big sexy beast, but it might be overkill and is certainly heavier!
@@WildlifeInspired The big Katana would too much for me. I could see you using it for a second camera for video. Still, a lot.
Rest assured Glen, they will take care of you should you ever have a problem! Congrats
Good choice; mine earlier this year and happy.
Not sure if it was intended, but while I was messing around with the setup I found out that I could use the side mount clamp as the main knob to the gimbal, and then use the provided double-sided acra lens foot plate as the cradle arm, then the swing base plate to the "new" cradle arm.
That way I could simply remove the cradle setup and turn into side mount instantly. Yea I know the side mount is only 2 guiding pins and 1 screw in the middle, but if anyone needed the quick swap capability its there.
Very versatile design indeed!
Scott, Congrats on your new toy, I came to the same conclusion a while ago, and couldn't be happier about it.
You and me both!
I just got the Leofoto PG-1 and love it, it’s a lot smoother than my Sirui PH-20 and it’s nice and light
Would you recommend avoiding the PH-20?
Fantastic reveiw.....Was tempted to try the Sirui as I have the Wimberly but after seeing this you have made my mind up....also with the 2 camera config ;-)
Excellent video as always Scott - I've got the GH2 and I'm super happy with it. I managed to get it for £160 a good few years ago and it hasn't let me down yet, at least for my purposes.
GH2 for that price sounds really good! Nice hope it serves you well.
I also buy it 😊
Love the 2 camera setup
Pro Media is about 45 min from me… good dudes and the products are awesome. I have their large set of legs and they’re great. Have had the Benro GH2 for a long time and it’s been outstanding, so I haven’t upgraded the head yet (aside from my flex shooter pro, which is awesome). Good video, again!
I think the GH2 is a really good value!
Congratulations on your new gimbal. I have the same and I bought the cradle clamp of RRS which is compatible with this gimbal.
why switch the cradle out? curious, did you add it to the existing arm to create a second set up on the same gimbal?
Great video series on the Gimbal Heads, I got the Sirui PH-10 & PH-30, use them both for DSLR Cameras & Precision Rifle Shooting, like the Carbon Fiber Material, Weight Capacity, Fast Lockout Feature, & the Price of them.
I have the same in my kit. WOW!! I have it for the last one year now
I’ve watch quite a few of your reviews and really appreciate what you do. I shoot a bit of everything including some helicopter photography. As you know, i need to slow down my shutter to capture the blur on the blades. I’m really considering the carbon fiber Benro since it is on sale for 391 on amazon right now. Since this not the main type of photography i do I don’t know if i can justify expediting 500 buck or more on a gimbal.
Would you mind doing a video using the gimbal on a real shoot and maybe showing some techniques?
Again, thank you so much for the great reviews and videos.
I've had my Katana Jr for a couple of years now! I also have the Wimberley II as well, but the Katana is by miles my favorite. Premium support is an "investment" and PMG stands behind their products.
agree
I just discovered your gimbal series and binged through it all Saturday. I rarely comment on UA-cam, but I have benefited so much from the series that I want to voice my support.
I love seeing someone else making product spreadsheets like I often do. Just a little suggestion - as a non-American viewer, I find it more helpful to see the metric/SI unit on the table than seeing the B&H/AZ rating columns. And if you ever want to test more gimbals, the RRS pano-gimbals would be a great option: they have been out of production for a long time until recently with the release of the Mark 2 models, and many Chinese copycats are starting to pop up in the past month (albeit lacking the side clamp).
The Fotopro E-6H is currently the strongest contender for me: I'm a field scientist = space for photography gear in a hike is a premium, my 200-500 - same size as your 300 2.8 - is modest enough for it to handle, priced way below the other compact options - Flex and the Benro GH-2F, and the versatility is attractive as I also do landscape and macro. Definitely a bit miffed by the low cradle, and I fear that I will later get envious of the fast panning from the Leofoto PG-1 & PMG KatanaJR.
I will see about adding metric! Its a good call out, American elitists, we think we are the only audience. I have more gimbal reviews coming. One note about the E-6H. Its a great gimbal (it sometimes goes on sale for a deep discount) and its not as "loose" as others if you use a lighter lens, its possible that it will feel tight. However, Unless you need a really loose gimbal, I think it is an excellent choice especially if you travel a lot.
Pro Media Gear makes some of the best equipment available. I have the tomahawk, a monopod and a tripod from PMG. I also have other brands of the same equipment - PMG is far superior.
I also have the small Fotopro - I like it, but do not use it very often.
When it comes to this type of gear, "Buy nice or Buy Twice"
When I saw the dual set up, I actually thought WTF....but I get it.
Outstanding video.
I’m still waiting for the replacement of the PG-02 with full cradle clamp from RRS but I do appreciate the information and other related links.
Do you like your RRS Gimbal
Good. That’s the one that I also selected and have waiting for me in my B&H shopping cart. Now to get the permission slip signed by the boss…
I am eyeing this one myself.
Hi Scott, loved this! That double set up...drool! Ive been trying to find a way to basically do this AND have a flash....you think there's any room for their flash bracket as well?
thats tight
@@WildlifeInspired ahhhh I wish they would make a double sided Katana with a flash piece in the middle :D
Looking at PMG website pictures it appears that the center of the cradle is offset from the horizontal pivot point. Not sure if that would be much concern (thinking panos) so emailed them. No response
I own a Kitanna Jr, my wife has a Kitanna, and our 3rd for my mobile cart is a Fotopro E9-H.
Great set ups!!
I have Jobu Design Jobu Jr.3 Deluxe Gimbal Kit with Swing-Arm HM-J3D and I really like it. Smooth like butter small and easy to carry. I don't have a large lens so it work very well for me.
Many people have suggested this as well, good stuff
That's the one I am researching now.
Scott, I just found out Leophoto is releasing a CP-2 and CP-3 new products that were shown at the CP+ 2023 Conference and I wanted to know if you had any insight on the new products. I really thought you were choosing CP-1, based on your videos. I’m sure the sponsor discount helped, but I thought the CP-1 was your second choice. With discounts the CP-1 at $340’ish it’s a hard choice on value having the same features name brands. Yes I wish it was US made and probably a copy of PMG version. Hopefully, LP will release more public info.
What made you decide to go with the pro media gear over the Leofoto? Currently debating between the two because of your videos, thanks!
Made in USA, love their service and construction. I love their products. PS I am also a big Leofoto fan for a Chinese company, I have enjoyed.
I got a mongoose brand. Super light for travel. Has a very large bubble. Sold my wemberley for it because it is easier to pack and travel. Z9 w/500 f4 combo. Very small company. Nice to know other gear as well. Thx
Forgot to add it has locking clip as well. Makes it easy to remove camera to add/subtract tele with the locks. Keeps the lens from flopping forward when the camera is removed. Also locks in horizontal direction or I can tighten the motion
Will you keep using the Tomahawk GT1 on the monopod? Or will you use the KatanaJr? Or did you also buy the Tomahawk GT2? 😅
I got the GT2 which will be dedicated on monopod.
I own the Benro GH-2 (not 1 as I have mistakenly written under another video) and I am struggling with the pan functionality. There is only on and off (tight or lose) and that is quite annoying if you want to do just small adjustments in the horizontal direction. What head (besides the Katana Junior would you recommend that has a smoother pan friction and still does not compromise on other aspects? Thanks a million, Peter
Oh boy..... the most frictionless system seems to be PMG, but the Wimberly is tried and true and smooth. Also some options on a fluid head to replace gimbal. If you already own the gimbal may look at my video on Leofoto fluid head.
@@WildlifeInspired Thank you Scott. I watched the video with the Leofoto PG-1 and the Katana Junior again. These were my two favourites, too. Over here in Europe there is a price difference of 340 Euros. You cannot get the Katana Junior under 790 Euros.
Have looked into the Really Right Stuff PG-02: MK2 PANO-GIMBAL HEAD? I would greatly appreciate your thoughts on this pano/gimbal head. Thanks
I will check this one out. I always stayed away as the recommended weight is pretty low comparitively. HOWEVER, many companies understate that number
I was going to pull the trigger on one and these wont do Nodal point adjustments without a nodal plate and then, it looks like the body might hit the arm. Still looking. Great review though..
Nice video. Where can this Gimball head can be bought in Europe , France ?
Are you using a leveling bowl on the tripod? Can you tell me more about that?
I don't on this set up but I do on another. Video soon
@@WildlifeInspired Can’t wait!
did anyone try it in cold climat? I use the wimberly now and it is not smooth at all in cold climat. So I wonder how that katana work in cold. TY
i have used mine in cold down to 20F and didnt notice any real issues.
congrats for your review....why is missing Really Right Stuff PG-02?
I get the gear from B&H and the PG-02 was not available (is it discontinued?) They have the PG-01 but the load capacity is only 8 lbs so I didn't include this for a longs lens type review.
@@WildlifeInspired Thank you for your answer...but if possible test one and compare it with PMG Katana Jr. Hope to be a good subject for a new you tube video. Best regards. Florin
Hi Scott, I have just purchased the same Katana Jr and found that the both gimbal and panning does not fully locked even though I have fully tightened it. Yes I have to use a little force but I wasn't expecting this at all. Can I ask if you could check if your gimbal behave the same way? Thank you.
mine will only move with EXTREME pressure. generally I would say it locks "well" Be cautious with overtightening than as the pin going in can actually break (I understand they replace at no cost if this happens)
@@WildlifeInspired thank you for clarifying this confirm that it is designed to behave that way. I also spoke to PMG directly and have similar results. 🙏🏻
Can the GT2 be used with a pistol grip head on a tripod?
I replied by email
Ok my friend just bought this so I went over and tried it with my setup, ugh this thing is smooooooth. Ugh cause my pocket going to get lighter soon LOL Comes with a plate, but friend bought another plate so he can shoot landscapes with it, so it's a 2 in 1. Love the Wimberly, but need to try the RRS one before I make up my mind, even tho it's outrageous price like 1k, Still can't get over how smooth the Jr. was.
Good luck. I will be doing the RRS soon maybe a couple months
What is the real difference between the Katana Jr. and the Leofoto PG-1. In Austria there is a price difference of about 300 Euros. Is the Katana so much better?
See other answer, and thanks for watching.
@@WildlifeInspired Thank you for your inspiring videos.
Hmm I do Landscapes and wildlife did you ever get a chance to do a fotopro review?
I have comparison reviews. If you are landscape hybrid check out my videos on gimbals $400-600 I think I did the E6 and E9
@@WildlifeInspired Thank you, just watched it and think it will work for me since I do wildlife and landscapes. TY
Hi Scott
I've been watching your videos for awhile now, so when I was looking for a Gimbal head I watched your 3 part reviews.
I ordered two gimbals one for $99.00 sent it back, and one for $180.00 sent it back, I won't get in to make but they were both junk.
So I saw you liked the Leofoto PG-1, it was on Amazon for $414.00 camo, I continued looking on Amazon for the same head and wow I found seven of them for $250.00 black, Brand new.
I went to Leofoto website, they had the same two there for the same price because they referred back to Amazon.
I purchased one received it today and it was everything you said it would be, I love it.
Question if you could have purchased the Leofoto for $250.00, would you have instead of the Katana ?
Thanks
Brian
PS It went up today to $346.00, still less then the $414.00
at $250, there's a very good chance I would have done that (keep in mind, I mentioned I get a discount with some PMG gear) but for 250 vs 650, that Leofoto is looking like an amazing deal. Congrats!
Brian, I wish had started shopping for a month ago, for the best price now CP-1 is $330! That is a deal for features of a $500 price range. I understand they have a CP-2/CP-3 in the works per the website support. Hope the lower prices return !!
I bought sirui ph‑30, after testing a few
very nice i like a lot of the Sirui stuff
If you want a gimbal that is proven to perform in the field under harsh conditions, year-after-year, just buy the Wimberley. Smooth, rock solid and backed by a company with an outstanding reputation. A one time purchase.
I just returned from Africa and the lodge provided blinds with Benro gimbals, which did not perform well. Out of the box, the Benro may appear to be a bargain but these were not very old and seemed loose and worn out. Buyer beware picking gimbals that are not proven to last. jmho
May I ask. Do you like the Really Right Stuff Gimbals
I have not used them for big lenses. I like the company but their gimbals are generally a 2 peice constructed and aren't rated at high weight, they seem more designed for smaller lenses? I may try one at some point, but I have not yet.
@@WildlifeInspired What about the PG-02 MKII from RRS? Is it made for smaller lenses too? I have the Canon RF 600 f4. What Gimbal would you recommend for that lens?
Have you tried the Gitzo brand?
DId a fluid gimbal test and didnt really like it.....
Congrats! I have the same one-although, I almost went with their green version haha. It’s a solid choice! I like using this and the flex shooter pro.
Sweet. That flex shooter is a really nice compact head but bit sure it's for me.
I am willing to bet real $ that you chose the new PMG side mount you recently made a video for comparing it to your current Tomahawk.
right company, but I did go big boy gimbal
@@WildlifeInspired I love PMG! They make some good stuff, underrated stuff i feel like
Just wish PMG gimbals weren't so expensive. I am a bit budget strapped so I am waiting for a sale.
@@Dazdigo PMG is also out of my price range. Have you looked at the Leofoto? I found one for a deal and it is so close to the perfect PMG Kat jr. knocki off. I've been very happy with mine and Scott gave it a good review.
@@WildlifeInspired Katana Jr perhaps? If I remember correctly it was on your list of personal fianalists when you did the final reviews.
I found this video helpful and intended to check out the other videos on gimbals you mention. One point. Please take your video camera out of autofocus. Every time something moves in the video, from your hands to the camera setup the main subjects of the video go out of focus.
Yes i am working on that (and struggling, when I put on manual focus the DOF is thin with my current light set up and sometimes the WHOLE video is out of focus. I will play around with it as I continue to improve. Recently realized that the in body stalization was on and was causes a perceptible "shake" when i moved quickly.
Just bought a Fotopro E6H with legs, my first gimbal. Adorama is having a killer deal today.
oooo k. Live stream of a previously recorded video?
It was scheduled as a premier which means I am live to answer questions during the recording.
@@WildlifeInspired - Ah - ok. I'd seen the term before, but you made me curious, so I went and read up on "Premier" .. interesting. A lot of things to know running a channel. Anyway - congrats on the gimbal.
BEEST!!!
I gather you don’t have a need for a base leveler?
I do have one and will discuss in a future video
As a Frenchman living in the UK, I'd pick a product "Made in USA" any time.
Currently using a Wimberley Mono Gimbal head on a Benro Supadupa.
Keep up the great work.
Very cool!
As comprehensive as all your videos have been on gimbal heads I feel you have missed 2 very important points. The first is the balance point and how well the lens will stay in the position i left it and not having to lock out. That is one of the biggest differences when compared to a fluid head. Second u did no comparison with a fluid head which offers a more consistent and steady movement. Size weight and bulkiness carrying one or the other is major consideration. Thanks for all the videos though.
How About Really Right Stuff?
Have not tested them yet Gitzo is up next and them maybe ill look at 1-2 RRS heads
I do not care, your problem, your business!!
you actually took the time out of your day to type this ? wow
Why are you repeating things again & again lol
Like ?
@@WildlifeInspired No hard feelings here! Love your channel on how you collaborate with artists articulating their work & also your work. Just some times feel annoyed by too many gear reviews. In my opinion these could be a 5 minutes video. Peace ✌🏾