PRODUCT NEWS

■ Gitzo launches new ball head

PREMIUM tripod manufacturer Gitzo has launched a new Series 4 heavy-duty ball head, which is said to be a real game changer for professionals working with heavy telephoto lenses in wildlife and bird photography.

Redesigned and updated in terms of both aesthetics and functionality and weighing in at less than 1 kg, its patented zero-drift locking system is made to support a payload of up to 30 kg, effortlessly handling a CSC or DSLR equipped with a 400-600 mm lens.

Other key features include maximum framing reactivity and smooth positioning thanks to a specially coated hollow-sphere ball and precision friction system, along with a dedicated pan axis thermo-stable fluid cartridge for ultimate movement control during subject tracking. Supplied with the Gitzo’s D profile plates, the Ball Head Series 4 is also compatible with the Arca-Swiss-style plates from other brands.

The head is designed to perfectly complement Gitzo’s Series 4 and 5 systematic tripods, comes in both lever and screw plate lock configurations and is available for £459.95. ■

■ Swarovski extends NL Pure range

HIGH-end optics manufacturer Swarovski Optik has added a 32 mm version to its NL Pure family. Available in both 8x and 10x magnification, this new model is smaller and lighter than the NL Pure 42. It shares the same superb optical system and huge field of view of the bigger binocular.

Swarovision technology and innovative lens coatings ensure a pin-sharp image with high-contrast, true-to-life colours, along with high light transmission, the company said. Furthermore, the field bag is made of 100% recycled polyester and product packaging is climate neutral and manufactured from sustainable and recyclable materials.

The NL Pure 32 also comes in an eye-catching new colour. In addition to the traditional green, this compact binocular is also available in burnt orange (pictured in 10x32 version). It is available now from selected retailers. ■