Roy,
I have just tried the camera lens combo 2.5kg, on the Manfrotto 701RC2 head.
As this may be a contentious response let me start by saying I have had, or still have, the Manfrotto 128RC, 701RC2 and 501 heads. I have had them all to pieces so I know whats inside and how they work. On BF I have been very critical of the 701 head when used with a large scope ( Nikon ED82A ) for example. However for a lighter 60/65 mm scope I think it is superior to the 128.
The result of this test ...... very impressed. The lighter pan and tilt action and positive lock give it a clear advantage over the 128. It is very easy to steer the camera on a moving target without using the pan handle. When you want to lock, the action is positive with no creap.
As there will be 128 owners who a very happy with their head I will mention the key differences.
The 701 has a series of very fine vanes and as a result the drag cannot be adjusted but as a result the action is very light. Some drag can be induced by using the lock screw, but it is just that a lock screw. The lock is positive in action with no creap. There is some built in balance adjustment.
The 128 has far wider vanes and as a result the drag can be adjusted but it has no positive lock. The wider vanes mean increased drag, so it is heavier in its action than the 701. An clear advantage with larger heavier scopes.
Conclusion :
If you take both scope and camera and your scope is in the 60/65mm range, the 701 head and 2 Q/R plates would be worthy of consideration mounted on your Benbo legs. You will need a threaded bush to convert the 701 mounting from 3/8 to 1/4 but that would only be a couple of £'s. Your existing ball head would still be available to use on camera only occasions, when it will allow easy leveling of the camera or positioning to portrait orientation.
Don
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