Pig Iron BH-1M Professional Tripod Ball Head for Pro DSLR Cameras. 6kg Load Capacity. Arca-Swiss Compatible Quick Release System.

This is a well-engineered and good looking ball head. I think it's meant for use on a tripod mainly, but I'm trying it fitted under a long telephoto lens on a monopod. It works a treat - sturdy, manoeuvrable and smooth - aided by the oversized Teflon-coated ball.Like others, I found the three knobs a bit bewildering at first. However, I quickly discovered that the big ball-friction knob can be set to how you like it and then left alone. For video work, the smaller lock knob ('balance lock control' in Pig-Iron speak) can then be left unlocked for smooth vertical pans (or locked for horizontal ones using the base drag) . For stills, just move to the desired landscape or portrait position and lock it off.This is possibly the best ball head I've ever used and, for the price, I'm sure it would be difficult to beat.

Love this brand. Bought a 2nd one to fit my new tripod. Easy to use. Very smooth action & Very strong.

Very solidly made and works perfectly, with every part tightening, locking, loosening and turning very smoothly and precisely. However, the two lock and friction knobs are a bit redundant; they both completely loosen or tighten the ball, both acting in the same way, so there's just no point in having both.Slightly odd design redundancies aside, this is really well made head for the price, at least better than other <£100 heads I've tried, and on par with some of the >£100 heads.

The tightening mechanism for the 360 pan seems to have 'preferred' angles to lock in at, and rotates the head a noticeable amount as you tighten the nut. Incredibly annoying when you're trying to compose a shot.Additionally, I was not able to find a combination of the friction and locking knob that allowed me to comfortably and smoothly make small changes to the head's position.Overall I think the head is 'ok' for the price. It feels solid and has a good range of motion and controls.Unfortunately, I've been left frustrated by the above issues a few too many times when out shooting. Not what you need when it's windy, cold and wet.

very well engineered ball head. Workmanship is fantastic and can't compare with cheapo ball head on the market. Have several ball heads previously; this is top of the range and steal for the money. Well done!!!Just packaging and instructions could be better with premium product.Just buy it.Well worth it!!!

This is a really well made tripod head. I've owned a few and this one is definitely the best that I have had.

Great piece of kit. Rock solid, well made, works perfectly and cheap