Product Description

A lightweight fluid head with pan bar and quick release camera plate with secondary security, ideal for cameras up to 4kg in weight. It has smooth fluid movement, pan and tilt locks. This version is black painted. Optional Plates: 200PL- 38. This replaces the Manfrotto 3130. Attachment (bottom): 3/8- Inch female thread; color: black; - 60Degree / +90Degree tilt range; height: 4.53 in.; independent pan lock; load capacity: 8.82 lbs.; material: aluminum; panoramic rotation: 360 Degree; plate type: quick release - with 1/4- Inch screw + VHS pin; weight: 2.20 lbs.; working height: 4.53 in.

Product Details

• Color: Black
• Brand: Bogen
• Model: 128RC
• Dimensions: 5.16" h x 4.57" w x 13.58" l, 2.51 pounds

Features

• Smooth fluid movement
• Secure quick release system for easy installation and removal of cameras
• adjustable for left or right handed operation
• Supports up to 8 pounds

Customer Reviews

Replaces 3130 head & works well w/ Bogen/Manfrotto tripods
I have the same head with the older model designation of 3130 (which uses the older non-notched quick-release plates as well as the newer notched 'N' plate).

This head is heavier than similar-sized heads in the model lineup but holds a 9 lb. camera well and the heft dampens vibration from below better than the lighter models (a plus for working with on-camera mic in certain environments). The fluid action is smooth and improves substantially with use. The overall quality of fit and finish is high.

When used with a Manfotto tripod the base attaches firmly with the use of the tripod's base set-screws (which secure via an inner ring of recessed beveled surfaces on the underside of this head). With that proviso, there is no problem with the head loosening as mentioned in the previous review. The size of the 3/8 inch mounting with beveled surface ring is a match for Manfrotto tripods and this unit is best used with that brand of tripod.

Considering the overall quality and modest price it is a good bet for medium-sized cameras (up to 10 lbs. or so). For smaller cameras, I switch to the Manfrotto 700RC2 which is well suiting to the new generation of "pop-can"-sized cameras (like Canon's Vixia/Ivis series). Both heads are low-cost, simple units.

good but not great
I got this head to go with a spotting scope after seeing it used by several others. First problem I had was the 3/8 mounting screw hole with no bushing supplied for 1/4-20 tripods, which used to be the standard. I had to cannibalize something else to get the bushing. Biggest complaint I have is that the horizontal traverse is much too stiff. Sometimes the head will start to unscrew from the tripod even though I have it tightened down as much as I can. It's much stiffer than the vertical traverse. I tried oiling the bushings under the tension screw but that did nothing. In fact, it is so tight that it does not always move smoothly. I assume I have a badly manufactured product, but I needed it when I got it so I had no choice but to use it. I'd look for another make and model before I would buy this 1 again.
9/25/08
I have been using this product since I originally wrote this review. While everything I stated at the time was true, I want to be fair. After considerable use the Horizontal movement has loosened up to the point that I feel it it is just about right. If I were rating it today I would give it 4 stars instead of 3.

Great head!
The head is great! It has a nice handle and the resistance is nicely adjustable. Just a small twist to the tightening knob is all it takes to drastically alter the resistance. According to how it handles and the reviews I read, this head is also great for video. Movement is liquid smooth and there is no jerk back like with cheaper heads.