I have the MH100 to which I added an RRS quick release but I can't love the offset with a arge lens. The GT2 looks great but I really wish PMG would sell offset blocks that could be added to center the lens over the monopod without adding all the ball head weight. In reaity, who needs a panning base on a monopod? Who needs an extra pound or so of ball head? Nobody, so a lightweight, strong offset adapter would make this a truy great product. IMHO
Recently started using the Wimberly MH100 and love it. The off center thing doesn’t bother me in the least bit. It’s a monopod so you have to hold it up anyways, just a little different at first.
@@WildlifeInspired It sounds like a great setup. If they could just get that price point down another Benjamin they might have something there. And I do love the made in USA.
Wherever I take my tripod I also take my monopod because it they are integrated. One of the legs of the tripod comes off and functions as a monopod. With that being said, the GT2 and a ball head w/ panning base at half the weight (or more when compared to other gimbals?) is very attractive. I like to hike deep into the backcountry for days at a time and weight and bulk are always factors. I have always used just my ball head with my long lenses because it is good enough. But, I will now consider adding slightly more bulk, but less than alternatives, in order to get a gimbal and monopod hybrid setup. I have never used my monopod except when shooting high school sports for the local paper.
That is perfect for a monopod, my gimbal on a monopod is huge and top heavy so it is hard to carry around. You don't need the horizontal pan with a monopod so it's a good area to cut down on weight. The price is a little bit steep for me, but I think when my gimbal head breaks (because it's cheap) I will need a monopod head, a full gimbal for tripod and I also need a ball head for landscapes so this will be worth the money for sure!
Great review but as a hobbyist who shoots landscape, wildlife and street it’s too pricey for me. I am looking at the Leofoto MPG 01 and the Leofoto MPQ405C which should be more than enough for my needs.
The big advantage of the wimberley is the size when lugging it around attached to the monopod. Any other type of head like the Tomahawk or sidekick and you’re significantly increasing the size of a compact monopod setup.
The new GT2 is not heavy at all. It's a lot more money however. I am fine with the Wimberly, but I never liked the tension control and the PMG is far superior. However is it almost 3 times as good for almost 3 times the money? Only if you have the money to spend.
@@WildlifeInspired talking size, not weight. I currently have a sidekick with adapter plates on my monopod (w ball head) sitting in the back of my car and it takes up significantly more space then if I just had the mh-100 on it!
Great video! Love all the PMG products too. I use the Robus tripod as well as their monopod too. Will have to look at ball head possibly. Great quality. This GT2 looks perfect for monopod use though. Thanks for the review.
I need a taller monopod. I have the Wimberley MK100 but I don't like the offset. Now I decided to get something to replace my tripod with removable leg. This is really interesting. How does it feel on a monopod when tracking fast birds, high up? It’s stiff offset isn’t it?
The Wimberley MH-100 monogimbal is the best option on the planet for a long lens on a Monopod and at $179 is a far cry from $800 or even $400 with a $200 panning base. I have a Gimbal and the Monogimbal that work perfectly and the pair cost me $260. This pair has been used with a Z9 and 600TC and a Z800mm PF lens
I have used the GT1 for nearly two years and rated that the best monopod head out there, I mount the GT1 on top of a Manfrotto tilt head via a Manfrotto clamp (hey its what I had). The tilt head is tilted towards the camera by about 15deg and pinned to fix it. The result is similar to a high angle gun mount with superb access to +75deg, -45, brilliant for airshows and birds on the wing, the additional height makes high angles much mor comfortable too. I’ll certainly look at the GT2…
I ordered the GT2 after watching your review about it being the best. I didn’t see any reviews of the HM1 tilt head by PMG. I’m assuming it’s not better than the GT2 from your review or it came out later.
Scott, I bought the ProMedia Gear GT2 Tomahawk probably about the same time. Adding to its versatility is that I think it is also the perfect head to mount on a ground pod such as the Naturescapes Skimmer Ground Pod. You can either directly mount it on the screw mount of the Skimmer Ground Pod or mount a Arca compatible clamp on it for quicker attachment and dis attachment. I already own the PMG Katana Jr gimbal head and I love it likewise. It completely replaced my older heaver WImberly Gimbal head.
I have used that on a ground pod as well (with the GT1) and just adds to the versatility. Truly one of the most versatile products on the market and WELL MADE!
@@WildlifeInspired It has occurred to me that I have not even thought yet of using this atop my LensCoat LensSack Pro beanbag. It has a 3/8" threaded mounting plate. The Tomahawk GT2 would be easier and lower than trying to use a full scale gimbal in a car window.
No concern, wear and tear, or issue with the lens foot being mounted on the side the entire time? I feel like it’s a lot of weight to be offset like that the entire time.
Thanks for a great, objective review, getting ready to pull the trigger on a monopod setup and this is timely. I too, was confused about the panning head suggestion. I have a ball head but would use that primarily on tripod. I do NOT already own a panning head but didn't think i would need one with this product for monopod use only, would I?
absolutely not. if you have a ballhead, grab this for your monopod and when you use a tripod, pop this off and use it with your ballhead. It works great!
Consider the Leofoto MPG-1 which is almost identical to the Wemberly but cheaper. I got an amazing Amazon deal for only $116. May want to watch to see if a deal comes up. The only downside is the knob is silver which for wildlife shooters is not great. I wrapped it in camo.
Looks great! I’m considering the GT2 model (junior). But for $230 more for the GT2 is no brainer for me with more versatile. I’m always skeptical about the integrity of those vertical mount clam metal materials. Hopefully those plate doesn’t break due to the uneven weight & stress on the plate & clam.
I do get the benefits/concept of having the ball head for let's say landscape photography (I do have a decent ball head myself) and as a combo with the Gimbal sidemount (GT2) for wildlife and this save you weight, etc. I wonder if you left the ballhead at home and had a full gimbal and left the ball head at home, could one use the full Gimbal as a conventional ball head for landscape photography, etc. Is there a catch in doing so?
Similar the Wimberly comes down a little on your back, I dont notice one much better than the other. More helpful is adding some foam or padding to the stick for a longer hike.
@@WildlifeInspired Same, got some pipe wrap on my manfrotto monopod (I keep that on the bike), the Benro monopod that I hike with I’m just using the factory foam, haven’t found a good foam option for that yet
Yes you can! I prefer the ballhead over a panning base. Just a base will have it off axis, but ballhead will put in back on axis (plus you can use the ballhead separately when needed)
I like your sugessted setup. I mainly use the GT2 with my monopod, but I like the option of also using it on my tripod. What would you recommend for a panning base?
I would go with a good ballhead, then it will offset nicely use the ballhead as the panning mechanism and they you also have a ballhead for other uses. BIG Robus - bhpho.to/3lHLFvP (this is what I use) Medium Robus - bhpho.to/40ZTvRu Promedia - promediagear.com/collections/ball-head/products/bh50c40-50mm-professional-ball-head-for-mirrorless-and-dslr-cameras?aff=36 I use these above. I avoid Oben and Fiesol for this function. I don't have a ton of experience with other brands for ballheads.
Nice video on the Pro media GT2. I have just recently got into Bird/Wildlife photography within the last 6 months or so, coming from Landscapes which I still do and am contemplating on a new head which will work well on both. I also have been watching your channel on the Benro GH2F and the Flex Shooter Pro, really like your straight forward reviews and the pros and cons of the item you are reviewing. I kind of eliminated the Flex Shooter and deciding between the GH2F or the GT2. In your opinion, which one would you choose and for what reasons. I have now been leading towards the GT2 but was wondering if the weight is somewhat off centered because of the ball on it's side vs the GH2F which you can mount on a tripod by itself but is more expensive as a complete unit. I would also be using it on a monopod as well. Thanks.
If you have a great ball head and wont be shooting a gimbal every day, teh GT2 (or wimberly sidekick) are good options the sidekick WILL NOT serve as a monopod head, so the GT2 is more versatile. If you are doing ONLY a gimbal look at the Benro GH5C (not mini) or the old GH2 also more money but I love the Promedia Gear Katana Jr. consider my affiliate links it helps a brother out. shop from here bhpho.to/3twnhgZ
@@WildlifeInspired Thank you for the information, I do have a pretty decent medium size Manfrotto ball head which I mainly use so I will check out the GT2 which gives the best of both worlds. I will definetly buy from your links when I decide to buy. Thanks.
Tnx, I'm not sure if I got your point about the panning head: do you actually use it on a monopod in conjunction with the GT2 head? Or was it strictly a suggestion for using the GT2 on a tripod? Also I have an actual arca-swiss ball head. Not AS-compatible head , but the real deal. Will the GT2 mount to it. Cause I had problems in the past with things that claimed to be AS-compatibility not being actually compatible with the real thing. And a final question, I'm planning to get an AS-leg replacement leg for my Canon 500 and I note the promediagear one is pretty steep at USD 200. So I wonder if you have experience with any more reasonably priced third party AS-compatible lens replacement legs that plays nice with the GT2 gimbal.
lots of questions... suggestion to use a panning style base with the GT2 but I would just use a ball head. Was just saying if you ONLY owned a panning base, you COULD use it in conjunction, but it would not be ideal. I cant say if your ball head would work with the GT2, but I have a Feisul ballhead which isn't a 'perfect' AS clamp but has no issue with either the GT1 GT2. finally there are a few foot replacements, I am not tied to any of them but I have used RRS and Kirk with no issues. Going forward, I will replace all of my feet with QD compatible feet, and likely go Promedia (they are currently developing a few more styles for more lenses). I did find one 3rd party foot online for like 50 bucks, but cant remember the site (I never tried them) You can also check companies like Leofoto, they are making more of these and the prices are usually more favorable (I have never had issues with their products)
When it comes to moving with the big lens attached Wimberly my-100 will easily beat it without a doubt as those who use it knows how easy it is to carry it on the back, I don’t see any chance with the big lens fitted on the tomahawk. For this reason, since I’m always on the move in search of birds I’ll stick to the Wimberly.
Great honest and thorough review Scott! I ordered a GT2 and now I am looking for a lightweight ball head that can handle my heavier lenses (5-8 lbs). I have a BH-55 ball head but it is too heavy for a compact/travel setup. As lightweight tripods I a using a Feisol 3442 Tournament tripod and an FLM CP30 tripod. Have you tested the Monoball p0? Any other compact ball heads that you recommend? Thank you very much!
Not sure on this one. I only have an Oben Ballhead, a Fiesol 50 or 55mm (its lighter by the way but the design isn't perfect, had it for years) and a bigger Robus. Maybe Ill look into a review in the future. Use those affiliate links lol they help me with making the reviews!
Scott, thanks for this excellent review and comparison of the PMG Tomahawk GT2! As a landscape, product and occasional wildlife/bird photographer, I am coming to the point of being interested in a gimbal system for either my 3LT Leo 2.0 tripod, or my iFootage Cobra ll monopod. Do you think this Tomahawk GT2 is compatible with a Nikon Z8 and a NIkkor Z 180-600 f/5.6-6.3 telephoto zoom? (I've been using this rig handheld at times for BIF (birds in flight) photography with some success, but feel that using a gimbal would provide even better hit rate and sharpness, correct?) Regards, Steve
There should be no problems with that setup. It is a well-made system and you should put this on a ball head if using it on a tripod. I love the versatility of this one. So you have one gimbal for both (keep a ball head on your tripod at all times in that case). If you purchase consider this link, it helps the channel a little: promediagear.com/products/gt2-tomahawk-add-on-gimbal-attachment-for-ball-heads?aff=36
Looks great have you had any issues using it with the Z 9 and 100-400mm I saw another review and they said the grip of the camera would hit the GT2 when tilting the lens up since the mount on that lens is so close to the camera body, it worked fine on longer lenses.
I just put the Z9 and 100-400/6”plate on the GT2 today and had the issue you mentioned. The only work around was pushing the lens all the way to the end of the plate, then it is unbalanced. Right now I have the 500pf on the Z6II (balanced) with adapter and 6”plate and no issue.
Hi Scott, Like your content. I was wondering with the GT2 on a monopod how does it carry across your shoulders? My Wimberley MH-100 is real comfortable on my monopod. Bruce
@@WildlifeInspired Can't wait to see what hack you come up to address this. I find this rig so uncomfortable to carry that I'm thinking of returning it. Functionally it's great but such a pain, literally, to carry
I typically have an f-stop Tilopa on my back whenever I’m out doing photography, and mainly if I’m hiking between shooting, the monopod with Tomahawk GT2 and 500mm prime lens sits INCREDIBLY comfortably over my shoulder because it rests on the shoulder strap of the backpack. It’s pretty painful over the shoulder without the padding of the backpack, so for a lighter weight trip, I plan on coming up with a DIY solution to some kind of padding for carrying this rig over my shoulder when I don’t need to have a backpack with me as well. But I will say, that with a rucksack strap to rest on, carrying this rig over my shoulder is more comfortable than the black rapid straps, handholding using the lens foot, or any other option I’ve tried. 🎉
I purchased the PMG Katana Junior a few months back and I've been loving it. It works brilliantly on the tripod. I've also been using it on my monopod actually, which does work, but it ends up being a little awkward to carry around. The GT2 could be a great option for shooting on the monopod which is what I tend to do now most of the time. How have you found the off-axis handling/balance of the GT2 on a monopod? Does it end up being side-heavy? I owned and sold the Wimberley MH-100 because the off-axis experience was so extreme that it made holding up the rig a massive pain in the ass. I'm assuming, given your praise of the GT2, that wasn't your experience?
I have no concerns at all, I have used this off axis set up for years once you are used to it, there is zero issue and the GT1/2 actually ends up being a nice comfortable grip with your left and where the lock out is.
Bought a GT2 after seeing your review and heartily second your enthusiasm. I often use a monopod, partly because I have balance and steadiness issues and need the support myself. I had mostly been using a WH-100 style MonoGimbal (Leofoto MPG-01, nearly identical to the Wimberley and at least as well made) but this is much better for me, because it neatly balances the lens over the monopod, rather than pulling to the side. It’s not much bigger than the MonoGimbal and just 100g heavier. I never tried the older GT1 Tomahawk because it was too heavy. It also works well on the tripod I use for telephoto work (Leofoto LS-364C + GH40 ball head), although I don’t think I’d want to put it on anything much lighter. I do think it’s overpriced at $400, and for that price, PMG really should include a better case than the cheap drawstring bag they give you.
Hey Scott, I got the Tomahawk GT2 based on your review and do like it better than my RRS monohead (due to better friction control, less risk of lens flop) and my ancient 4th Generation Mongoose (lens creep when locked down). But, I was surprised/bummed that the GT2 doesn’t stay locked down (perpendicular to my PMG monopod) if I touch the top of lens hood (when the GT2 is positioned on the right) or camera (when positioned on the left); i.e., when positioning my rig over my shoulders/back/puffy jackets while hiking on uneven grades/hills. I sent PMG a video, got a replacement and it was slightly better but still the same. It’s as though the tension screw loosens if there’s any pressure by the lens hood/camera and mine (red version, bought direct) will collapse. Question: does your GT2 lock down 100% when moving about? If so, I need to contact PMG again. Also, what pano head would you recommend/trust for your lightweight suggested setup (in lieu of using my Flex-shooter QR ballhead @ 1.6 lb.)? Thx in advance, Chris
I shoot with Nikon, I've owned Nikon? This comment makes no sense. Am I to own every camera manufacturer so I can be "unbias?" I reveal all of my owned/loaned/gifted products. If you take time to leave a comment, I will read and respond, but try to leave comments here that are constructive.
Would love to see you test the Leofoto MPG-01s compared to the Wimberley. Cheaper option AND it's a clamp, for easier mounting.
I have the MH100 to which I added an RRS quick release but I can't love the offset with a arge lens. The GT2 looks great but I really wish PMG would sell offset blocks that could be added to center the lens over the monopod without adding all the ball head weight. In reaity, who needs a panning base on a monopod? Who needs an extra pound or so of ball head? Nobody, so a lightweight, strong offset adapter would make this a truy great product. IMHO
Thank you for this product tip, I ordered it straight away and am already looking forward to it.
A nodal arca clamp could be used so that the center of weight is in line with monopod
Yes. I just hate adding more components with hiking. RRS has a system similar to what you are describing
Recently started using the Wimberly MH100 and love it. The off center thing doesn’t bother me in the least bit. It’s a monopod so you have to hold it up anyways, just a little different at first.
I have no major complaints with the MH100 but I can say without doubt this is better (but more than twice as much!)
@@WildlifeInspired It sounds like a great setup. If they could just get that price point down another Benjamin they might have something there. And I do love the made in USA.
Wherever I take my tripod I also take my monopod because it they are integrated. One of the legs of the tripod comes off and functions as a monopod. With that being said, the GT2 and a ball head w/ panning base at half the weight (or more when compared to other gimbals?) is very attractive. I like to hike deep into the backcountry for days at a time and weight and bulk are always factors. I have always used just my ball head with my long lenses because it is good enough. But, I will now consider adding slightly more bulk, but less than alternatives, in order to get a gimbal and monopod hybrid setup. I have never used my monopod except when shooting high school sports for the local paper.
would be curious for your thoughts if you get it!
That is perfect for a monopod, my gimbal on a monopod is huge and top heavy so it is hard to carry around. You don't need the horizontal pan with a monopod so it's a good area to cut down on weight. The price is a little bit steep for me, but I think when my gimbal head breaks (because it's cheap) I will need a monopod head, a full gimbal for tripod and I also need a ball head for landscapes so this will be worth the money for sure!
Did that for years.... it's a nice combo set up
Great review but as a hobbyist who shoots landscape, wildlife and street it’s too pricey for me. I am looking at the Leofoto MPG 01 and the Leofoto MPQ405C which should be more than enough for my needs.
The big advantage of the wimberley is the size when lugging it around attached to the monopod. Any other type of head like the Tomahawk or sidekick and you’re significantly increasing the size of a compact monopod setup.
The new GT2 is not heavy at all. It's a lot more money however. I am fine with the Wimberly, but I never liked the tension control and the PMG is far superior. However is it almost 3 times as good for almost 3 times the money? Only if you have the money to spend.
@@WildlifeInspired talking size, not weight. I currently have a sidekick with adapter plates on my monopod (w ball head) sitting in the back of my car and it takes up significantly more space then if I just had the mh-100 on it!
Great video! Love all the PMG products too. I use the Robus tripod as well as their monopod too. Will have to look at ball head possibly. Great quality. This GT2 looks perfect for monopod use though. Thanks for the review.
Thanks for feedback. I'm going to review a few ballheads 200-250 and see if can find a good value in that range what has good horizontal panning
I need a taller monopod. I have the Wimberley MK100 but I don't like the offset. Now I decided to get something to replace my tripod with removable leg. This is really interesting. How does it feel on a monopod when tracking fast birds, high up? It’s stiff offset isn’t it?
The Wimberley MH-100 monogimbal is the best option on the planet for a long lens on a Monopod and at $179 is a far cry from $800 or even $400 with a $200 panning base. I have a Gimbal and the Monogimbal that work perfectly and the pair cost me $260. This pair has been used with a Z9 and 600TC and a Z800mm PF lens
the tomahawk is way better. I have both and have not problem with the Wimberly but it's not the same quality and shouldn't be at half the price.
I have used the GT1 for nearly two years and rated that the best monopod head out there, I mount the GT1 on top of a Manfrotto tilt head via a Manfrotto clamp (hey its what I had). The tilt head is tilted towards the camera by about 15deg and pinned to fix it. The result is similar to a high angle gun mount with superb access to +75deg, -45, brilliant for airshows and birds on the wing, the additional height makes high angles much mor comfortable too. I’ll certainly look at the GT2…
I ordered the GT2 after watching your review about it being the best. I didn’t see any reviews of the HM1 tilt head by PMG. I’m assuming it’s not better than the GT2 from your review or it came out later.
Scott, I bought the ProMedia Gear GT2 Tomahawk probably about the same time. Adding to its versatility is that I think it is also the perfect head to mount on a ground pod such as the Naturescapes Skimmer Ground Pod. You can either directly mount it on the screw mount of the Skimmer Ground Pod or mount a Arca compatible clamp on it for quicker attachment and dis attachment. I already own the PMG Katana Jr gimbal head and I love it likewise. It completely replaced my older heaver WImberly Gimbal head.
I have used that on a ground pod as well (with the GT1) and just adds to the versatility. Truly one of the most versatile products on the market and WELL MADE!
@@WildlifeInspired It has occurred to me that I have not even thought yet of using this atop my LensCoat LensSack Pro beanbag. It has a 3/8" threaded mounting plate. The Tomahawk GT2 would be easier and lower than trying to use a full scale gimbal in a car window.
Almost perfect: if it had a lever clamp for the lens collar foot, then.
No concern, wear and tear, or issue with the lens foot being mounted on the side the entire time? I feel like it’s a lot of weight to be offset like that the entire time.
been using side mounts for years.. It is technically more torque on the lens foot, but practically I don't think its an issue.
Thanks for a great, objective review, getting ready to pull the trigger on a monopod setup and this is timely. I too, was confused about the panning head suggestion. I have a ball head but would use that primarily on tripod. I do NOT already own a panning head but didn't think i would need one with this product for monopod use only, would I?
absolutely not. if you have a ballhead, grab this for your monopod and when you use a tripod, pop this off and use it with your ballhead. It works great!
Consider the Leofoto MPG-1 which is almost identical to the Wemberly but cheaper. I got an amazing Amazon deal for only $116. May want to watch to see if a deal comes up. The only downside is the knob is silver which for wildlife shooters is not great. I wrapped it in camo.
Nice review! Thank you for the info!
nice. video. will you have a look at the new leofoto monopod gimbal?
It look exactly like the MH100 so maybe ill get one and do a quick comparison
Looks great! I’m considering the GT2 model (junior). But for $230 more for the GT2 is no brainer for me with more versatile. I’m always skeptical about the integrity of those vertical mount clam metal materials. Hopefully those plate doesn’t break due to the uneven weight & stress on the plate & clam.
I can only speak for my experience. I shoot tens of thousands of images side mounted and no issue.
@@WildlifeInspired Thanks for the info. Will definitely try it.
I love promediagear and I own their Junior Katana and this will is on my list now.
sweet!
I do get the benefits/concept of having the ball head for let's say landscape photography (I do have a decent ball head myself) and as a combo with the Gimbal sidemount (GT2) for wildlife and this save you weight, etc. I wonder if you left the ballhead at home and had a full gimbal and left the ball head at home, could one use the full Gimbal as a conventional ball head for landscape photography, etc. Is there a catch in doing so?
Nice piece of gear!! How is it compared to the Wimberly MH100 if it’s on your shoulder (on a monopod) after a lengthy hike? That’s my go-to setup.
Similar the Wimberly comes down a little on your back, I dont notice one much better than the other. More helpful is adding some foam or padding to the stick for a longer hike.
@@WildlifeInspired Same, got some pipe wrap on my manfrotto monopod (I keep that on the bike), the Benro monopod that I hike with I’m just using the factory foam, haven’t found a good foam option for that yet
Thanks. This is really useful. With a monopod can you use the GT2 with a ball head so it is on axis? I prefer to have the lens on axis if possible
Yes you can! I prefer the ballhead over a panning base. Just a base will have it off axis, but ballhead will put in back on axis (plus you can use the ballhead separately when needed)
ordered from your afilliate link, love it so far, very smooth!
BOOM!
I like your sugessted setup. I mainly use the GT2 with my monopod, but I like the option of also using it on my tripod. What would you recommend for a panning base?
I would go with a good ballhead, then it will offset nicely use the ballhead as the panning mechanism and they you also have a ballhead for other uses.
BIG Robus - bhpho.to/3lHLFvP (this is what I use)
Medium Robus - bhpho.to/40ZTvRu
Promedia - promediagear.com/collections/ball-head/products/bh50c40-50mm-professional-ball-head-for-mirrorless-and-dslr-cameras?aff=36
I use these above. I avoid Oben and Fiesol for this function. I don't have a ton of experience with other brands for ballheads.
@@WildlifeInspired Thanks!
I wonder why PMG didn't design the GT2 so that it is on axis? At first glance, it doesn't seem like it would take that much redesign.
Because this design allows flexibility to be used with a ballhead and function as a true gimbal. Its much more versatile
Nice video on the Pro media GT2. I have just recently got into Bird/Wildlife photography within the last 6 months or so, coming from Landscapes which I still do and am contemplating on a new head which will work well on both. I also have been watching your channel on the Benro GH2F and the Flex Shooter Pro, really like your straight forward reviews and the pros and cons of the item you are reviewing. I kind of eliminated the Flex Shooter and deciding between the GH2F or the GT2. In your opinion, which one would you choose and for what reasons. I have now been leading towards the GT2 but was wondering if the weight is somewhat off centered because of the ball on it's side vs the GH2F which you can mount on a tripod by itself but is more expensive as a complete unit. I would also be using it on a monopod as well. Thanks.
If you have a great ball head and wont be shooting a gimbal every day, teh GT2 (or wimberly sidekick) are good options the sidekick WILL NOT serve as a monopod head, so the GT2 is more versatile. If you are doing ONLY a gimbal look at the Benro GH5C (not mini) or the old GH2 also more money but I love the Promedia Gear Katana Jr. consider my affiliate links it helps a brother out. shop from here bhpho.to/3twnhgZ
@@WildlifeInspired
Thank you for the information, I do have a pretty decent medium size Manfrotto ball head which I mainly use so I will check out the GT2 which gives the best of both worlds. I will definetly buy from your links when I decide to buy. Thanks.
Tnx, I'm not sure if I got your point about the panning head: do you actually use it on a monopod in conjunction with the GT2 head? Or was it strictly a suggestion for using the GT2 on a tripod? Also I have an actual arca-swiss ball head. Not AS-compatible head , but the real deal. Will the GT2 mount to it. Cause I had problems in the past with things that claimed to be AS-compatibility not being actually compatible with the real thing. And a final question, I'm planning to get an AS-leg replacement leg for my Canon 500 and I note the promediagear one is pretty steep at USD 200. So I wonder if you have experience with any more reasonably priced third party AS-compatible lens replacement legs that plays nice with the GT2 gimbal.
lots of questions... suggestion to use a panning style base with the GT2 but I would just use a ball head. Was just saying if you ONLY owned a panning base, you COULD use it in conjunction, but it would not be ideal. I cant say if your ball head would work with the GT2, but I have a Feisul ballhead which isn't a 'perfect' AS clamp but has no issue with either the GT1 GT2. finally there are a few foot replacements, I am not tied to any of them but I have used RRS and Kirk with no issues. Going forward, I will replace all of my feet with QD compatible feet, and likely go Promedia (they are currently developing a few more styles for more lenses). I did find one 3rd party foot online for like 50 bucks, but cant remember the site (I never tried them) You can also check companies like Leofoto, they are making more of these and the prices are usually more favorable (I have never had issues with their products)
@@WildlifeInspired tnx greatly appreciated taking the time to explain these.
When it comes to moving with the big lens attached Wimberly my-100 will easily beat it without a doubt as those who use it knows how easy it is to carry it on the back, I don’t see any chance with the big lens fitted on the tomahawk. For this reason, since I’m always on the move in search of birds I’ll stick to the Wimberly.
Great honest and thorough review Scott! I ordered a GT2 and now I am looking for a lightweight ball head that can handle my heavier lenses (5-8 lbs). I have a BH-55 ball head but it is too heavy for a compact/travel setup. As lightweight tripods I a using a Feisol 3442 Tournament tripod and an FLM CP30 tripod. Have you tested the Monoball p0? Any other compact ball heads that you recommend? Thank you very much!
Not sure on this one. I only have an Oben Ballhead, a Fiesol 50 or 55mm (its lighter by the way but the design isn't perfect, had it for years) and a bigger Robus. Maybe Ill look into a review in the future. Use those affiliate links lol they help me with making the reviews!
Scott, thanks for this excellent review and comparison of the PMG Tomahawk GT2! As a landscape, product and occasional wildlife/bird photographer, I am coming to the point of being interested in a gimbal system for either my 3LT Leo 2.0 tripod, or my iFootage Cobra ll monopod. Do you think this Tomahawk GT2 is compatible with a Nikon Z8 and a NIkkor Z 180-600 f/5.6-6.3 telephoto zoom? (I've been using this rig handheld at times for BIF (birds in flight) photography with some success, but feel that using a gimbal would provide even better hit rate and sharpness, correct?) Regards, Steve
There should be no problems with that setup. It is a well-made system and you should put this on a ball head if using it on a tripod. I love the versatility of this one. So you have one gimbal for both (keep a ball head on your tripod at all times in that case).
If you purchase consider this link, it helps the channel a little:
promediagear.com/products/gt2-tomahawk-add-on-gimbal-attachment-for-ball-heads?aff=36
Looks great have you had any issues using it with the Z 9 and 100-400mm I saw another review and they said the grip of the camera would hit the GT2 when tilting the lens up since the mount on that lens is so close to the camera body, it worked fine on longer lenses.
I just put the Z9 and 100-400/6”plate on the GT2 today and had the issue you mentioned. The only work around was pushing the lens all the way to the end of the plate, then it is unbalanced. Right now I have the 500pf on the Z6II (balanced) with adapter and 6”plate and no issue.
Hi Scott, Like your content. I was wondering with the GT2 on a monopod how does it carry across your shoulders? My Wimberley MH-100 is real comfortable on my monopod. Bruce
I think I have a hack coming for this ! The MH100 is good on my shoulder like 7/10 on the comfort scale. The gt1 was a 5/10. This is a 6/10.
@@WildlifeInspired Can't wait to see what hack you come up to address this. I find this rig so uncomfortable to carry that I'm thinking of returning it. Functionally it's great but such a pain, literally, to carry
I typically have an f-stop Tilopa on my back whenever I’m out doing photography, and mainly if I’m hiking between shooting, the monopod with Tomahawk GT2 and 500mm prime lens sits INCREDIBLY comfortably over my shoulder because it rests on the shoulder strap of the backpack. It’s pretty painful over the shoulder without the padding of the backpack, so for a lighter weight trip, I plan on coming up with a DIY solution to some kind of padding for carrying this rig over my shoulder when I don’t need to have a backpack with me as well. But I will say, that with a rucksack strap to rest on, carrying this rig over my shoulder is more comfortable than the black rapid straps, handholding using the lens foot, or any other option I’ve tried. 🎉
Hack update or link …?
No hikability score?😊
I purchased the PMG Katana Junior a few months back and I've been loving it. It works brilliantly on the tripod. I've also been using it on my monopod actually, which does work, but it ends up being a little awkward to carry around. The GT2 could be a great option for shooting on the monopod which is what I tend to do now most of the time. How have you found the off-axis handling/balance of the GT2 on a monopod? Does it end up being side-heavy? I owned and sold the Wimberley MH-100 because the off-axis experience was so extreme that it made holding up the rig a massive pain in the ass. I'm assuming, given your praise of the GT2, that wasn't your experience?
I have no concerns at all, I have used this off axis set up for years once you are used to it, there is zero issue and the GT1/2 actually ends up being a nice comfortable grip with your left and where the lock out is.
Bought a GT2 after seeing your review and heartily second your enthusiasm.
I often use a monopod, partly because I have balance and steadiness issues and need the support myself. I had mostly been using a WH-100 style MonoGimbal (Leofoto MPG-01, nearly identical to the Wimberley and at least as well made) but this is much better for me, because it neatly balances the lens over the monopod, rather than pulling to the side. It’s not much bigger than the MonoGimbal and just 100g heavier. I never tried the older GT1 Tomahawk because it was too heavy.
It also works well on the tripod I use for telephoto work (Leofoto LS-364C + GH40 ball head), although I don’t think I’d want to put it on anything much lighter.
I do think it’s overpriced at $400, and for that price, PMG really should include a better case than the cheap drawstring bag they give you.
Thank you. I was about to go with Leofoto MPG-01. Now I wan to get one GT2 intead.
Hey Scott, I got the Tomahawk GT2 based on your review and do like it better than my RRS monohead (due to better friction control, less risk of lens flop) and my ancient 4th Generation Mongoose (lens creep when locked down). But, I was surprised/bummed that the GT2 doesn’t stay locked down (perpendicular to my PMG monopod) if I touch the top of lens hood (when the GT2 is positioned on the right) or camera (when positioned on the left); i.e., when positioning my rig over my shoulders/back/puffy jackets while hiking on uneven grades/hills. I sent PMG a video, got a replacement and it was slightly better but still the same. It’s as though the tension screw loosens if there’s any pressure by the lens hood/camera and mine (red version, bought direct) will collapse. Question: does your GT2 lock down 100% when moving about? If so, I need to contact PMG again. Also, what pano head would you recommend/trust for your lightweight suggested setup (in lieu of using my Flex-shooter QR ballhead @ 1.6 lb.)? Thx in advance, Chris
Unbiased say you wearing a Nikon sweater 🤣
I shoot with Nikon, I've owned Nikon? This comment makes no sense. Am I to own every camera manufacturer so I can be "unbias?" I reveal all of my owned/loaned/gifted products. If you take time to leave a comment, I will read and respond, but try to leave comments here that are constructive.