Arca Swiss Z-1 any good?

It sounds like a nice head , but I don't think to many people are buying it. You don't find much talk about it on any of the forums. Are you looking for a replacement for your Markins M20?

 

I didn't realize they came out with a less expensive head.

I've been using the B1 for a few years now and love it.

 

Does arca-Swiss have a website? I sure can't find it in doing a search.

 

It's pretty funny I just came across the Z1 today too while doing some research on ball heads. I wanted to know as well if anyone had any opinions.

The only site I could find with remotely a review on the Z1 was www.the-digital-picture.com. But I can't really trust their review since they sell the thing on their site - they plug you for a sale at the end of the review.

Apparently they don't have a website; but I did find that they are located in Chicago.

Using Google Maps, their address is:

Arca Swiss
2247 N Geneva Ter
Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 248-2513

Also does anyone have any opinions of the Kirk BH-3?

 

I still haven't found a site for Arca Swiss; but in case anyone wanted a little history on the company you can visit here.

 

I'm surprised that there is not more people buying it. You just don't hear much about it like the Kirk, Markins and RRS. Arca Swiss been around for along time , but I wonder why no web site ?

 

I can't find the Arca Swiss site either. I can't imagine why they don't advertise their products - or at least have an easily accessible website. I've bought and sold a lot of photographic gear in the last 10 years, and I'll be the first to tell anyone that I'll NEVER sell my B1 ballhead. It's just that good.

 

Arca Swiss took a heck of a beating over the supposed "lock up" issues with their ball heads. There was a certain chain of events to where the head couldn't be loosened, but if you tightened the knob a bit, everything would free up. Instead, everyone tried to loosen the knob, and couldn't get it to budge. Arca did a re-design and fixed it quite awhile back, but the "hit" still follows them. I've owned three B-1s and still use one today, although it is a back up to my BH-55LR. The Arca's are terrific ballheads, and are probably the most responsible for the current designs. If I needed a new ballhead, I would hesitate in buying the new Z-1. From all appearances, its going to be a good 'un..

 

From my limited understanding from my readings on Nikonians, the lock up problem was solved and completely went away with the B1 with the silver thumb screw. I have no idea what this means, but apparently I have one of the good ones. I've tried to make it lock up...it won't. I don't know anything about the new model, but I'm considering a second head...and this one's at the top of my list.