The Davis and Sanford FM18 is a compact fluid head with an 18 lb payload. This head offers an economical choice for videographers using a full-size camcorder, and it features a sliding quick release plate to properly balance your rig. Two adjustable pan bars can be attached or removed as needed for easy maneuvering, and independent pan and tilt locks aid in adjusting the 180° tilt and 360° pan. An integrated bubble level assists in leveling your overall tripod configuration.

18 lb Payload    Sliding Quick Release Plate    Two Adjustable Pan Bars    Bubble Level, Independent Pan/Tilt Locks

Independent pan/tilt drag and locks offer effortless control over tripod capabilities.

A sliding, locking quick release offers balancing capabilities for a variety of camcorder sizes.

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Can I replace it's mounting plate with another, like the Zacuto VCT Tripod Plate?

A: The way to attach the Zacuto VCT Tripod Plate to the Davis & Sanford FM18 Fluid Head's is by using the FM18's own quick release plate as the attachment point.

Q: 2. I know it's rated for 18 lbs but can it support a full-sized URSA with minimal accessories?

A: The BMD Ursa weighs 16 pounds before you add a battery, lens and other accessories. It is going to be very hard to keep the Ursa at the 18 pound mark, we advise against using this head. You can start your search with systems that have the Manfrotto 509HD Head. The 509HD has a load capacity of 29 pounds, which is enough to handle the Ursa and accessories. You will also need a VCT-14 Quick Release Tripod Adapter to mount the Ursa on any tripod.

Q: 3. Will manfrotto quick release plates work on there?

A: No, this tripod head will not accept Manfrotto QR plates.

Q: 4. Would this work well for a dslr (6dii)? I'm only seeing photos with larger video cameras.

A: Yes, the Davis & Sanford Provista 7518B Tripod Kit is compatible with the Canon 6D mark II.

Q: 5. I am looking to use this for astronomy. What is the tilt range of the V18 head? Will it go up 90 degrees?

A: Yes it can do +/- 90 degrees

Q: 6. Is the head removable and would I be able to replace the head with a manfrotto 502?

A: If your 502 has a 75mm, it will fit. If your 502 has a flat base, you will need an adapter. Manfrotto 520BALLSH 75mm Short Half-Ball B&H # MA520BSH.

Q: 7. Will the tripod configuration allow us to use an iPad adaptor? We need to have a tripod to use with both an iPad and video camera.

A: The answer would depend more on the iPad adapter than the tripod. This tripod is very sturdy and should have no issue supporting the additional weight of a tablet.

Q: 8. Any tricks for adjusting fluid tension? My first one of these is fine. But my second is too stiff, causing ride-back to every tilt.

A: The knob on the left of the head controls tilt tension.

Q: 9. Is this the FM18 or FM18/2? I just got burned buying the ProVista tripod clearly showing a picture of the FM18/2 (like this product image) and received the FM18 which is stiff and not as fluid.

A: It's the FM18/2.

Q: 10. Is this head compatible with Manfrotto 501PL quick release plates?

A: Yes, it is compatible.