Friction handle?

[DeadEyesSmiling]

I'm a moron. What's a friction handle used for on a tripod head?

And while I'm at it, what are the benifits of a slide release mount vs. a quick release mount?

Basically, I just inherited some Bogen Manfrotto 3046 sticks with a Bogen Manfrotto 3063 head, and I'm trying to figure out exactly what I have.

Thanks!

-DES

 

[Knoxworth]

Friction handle? Adds or relieves friction in order to control tilting or panning speed.

If you want faster you set it to low friction. Slower - more friction.

 

[DeadEyesSmiling]

That's what I figured, but mine doesn't really do much. The friction handle goes through the middle of the tilt joint and tightening it barely affects the resistance of movement. But there is a turn knob that screws into the perimeter of the joint, and that is what really affects the resistance. I guess I just don't see why there would be two different items that have the same function, especially if one doesn't really do anything. Thanks for your response, though!

-DES