500mm f4 lens with a sidekick

lowbone

Has anyone here used the Wimberly sidekick with a 500mm f4 lens? I would like to hear your thoughts on this combination both positive and negative

Harryb

I use the 500mm with a full Wimberly head. I've worked with photogs who used the 500mm with the sidekick. Both combos seem to work equally well. The sidekick is a cheaper alternative to the full Wimberly head if you already own a heavy duty ball head with a Arca-Swiss style quick release plate. Your ball head must have a panning base with a separate knob that can be locked independently of the ball and socket joint.

The Side Kick is easier to use with multiple lenses.

jwear

Harry said it all ,I used the sidekick for over a year .Works great with a real good BALL HEAD w/ 300 500 etc The full wimberly is better with the 500 lighter and smoother but more $

[Deleted User]

I use my 500 on the Wimberley ver. II head. I figured the head and a better tripod were just part of the total package price (considering the price of the lens alone). It really works nicely.

I don't know what it would be like, trying to hang a 500 on that vertical (sideways) mount on the Sidekick.

Sorry I'm not more help.

raptorcaptor

Get the Wimberly Head II it is well worth the investment. It is more secure and you will be able to angle your lens much higher than the Sidekick.
I have both and I only use the sidekick with my 70-200 or my 300 F4.

You have a $5500 + lens put it on a secure head and tripod!

I have had a lens become detached while shooting on the sidekick.

lowbone

Thanks everyone

troylim

Lowbone,

My advise is don't be cheap. You will end up spending more.
Wimberly II is great, it is worth it.