The Manfrotto 496RC2 is a basic ball head that is OK on a tripod, but works very well on a monopod. The lack of a panning feature makes this head useless for panoramic landscapes where stitching photographs together is needed.

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  Well built, stable quick release, light weight

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  Cannot pan

This is a very well manufactured and designed ballhead. It easily attached to my Manfrotto 190 tripod, I found the locking lever and friction control easily adjusted. Can't wait to get out and use it.

I forgot to mention that the 804 head has a quick release on it and that is what was not making a tight fit anymore.

I've had a 496 ball head for years now. I also own a Manfrotto 804RC2. The 804 head was usually on my tripod. One day I had my Canon 5D Mark II and a Canon 400mm lens mounted on the 804 head.

This is the 2nd one of these I've ordered. It easily supports a full size DSLR with a short to mid tele lens.

This is an excellent product and value. Just what I needed.

I have used the Manfrotto 494 lighter version of this for several years with my Canon 5D and never once had a problem. Strong, reliable and easy to use. I bought this anticipating the purchase of a heavier camera. It's the same great product, just able to handle more weight.

Used it today on my monopod holding a Full Frame mirrorless camera with a 10x zoom. It worked just fine. The camera lens combo weighs about 3.5 pounds, when snugly tightened it stays put. Ergonomics of the knob allow it to be tightened easily. It's what I was looking for and I'm satisfied.

This thing can handle more than I originally anticipated. a c100 with monitor and recorder are not too much at all. Perfect for use on a slider.

The horizontal centre column feature is really useful and very easy to use. The ball head has adjustable friction as well as a lock. The ball head is much quicker to position than a 3 way head and locks very solidly.

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  Easily Adjusted, Good Footing, Locks In Tight, Smooth Movement, Versatile