Leofoto PG-2 telephoto gimbal head (foldable)

Leofoto PG-2 folding telephoto tilt head, compact gimbal for large telephoto lenses

Sometimes it doesn’t take much to notice that a tripod head is reaching its limits. At the latest when you mount a 500mm or 800mm f/5.6 telephoto and everything tilts slightly forward, it becomes clear: a normal ball head is more of an emergency solution than an ideal choice here. This is exactly where the Leofoto PG-2 telephoto tilt head comes in, a gimbal head specifically designed for heavy telephoto lenses that can still be folded down to an amazingly compact size.

Robust aluminum construction for tough everyday photography

The PG-2 is made of high-quality T-6061 aluminum, which proves to be extremely resistant and durable in practice. Thanks to the hard anodizing, the surface remains reliably protected even after frequent setup and teardown, travel in a backpack, or the typical “just quickly throw it in the car.” The housing is deliberately hollowed out to optimize the ratio between weight and stability without making the head feel wobbly. Weighing only about 1.29 kg with a height of around 22.0 cm, it offers a remarkably solid base, even when you are out with an 800mm f/5.6.

Folding design, a gimbal head that is truly travel-ready

Many gimbal heads are powerful but bulky. The Leofoto PG-2 takes a different approach here: thanks to its folding design, it can be stored much more compactly, so you can easily fit it into your camera backpack or the included padded carrying bag. Especially when traveling, on longer hikes, or in airline luggage, this makes a noticeable difference. You no longer have to wonder whether the gimbal is “maybe a bit too much,” you can simply take it with you.

Smooth movements for sports, wildlife, and reportage

The PG-2 is designed as a gimbal telephoto tilt head, allowing the arm to swing smoothly back and forth and be securely locked at the desired angle. This construction enables you to track fast-moving subjects with heavy telephoto lenses precisely, without having to constantly fight against the weight. This advantage really comes into its own in sports photography, wildlife observation, hide photography, or dynamic reportage work. The system offers a certain stiffness that improves control and reduces nervous oscillation, allowing you to keep subjects steadier in the viewfinder.

High load capacity up to 25 kg, designed for large telephoto lenses

With a maximum load capacity of up to 25 kg, the Leofoto PG-2 is clearly designed for professional or very heavy telephoto lenses. Lenses up to 800mm f/5.6 can be used without any problems, without the head reaching its limits. These reserves give you peace of mind even with combinations of DSLR or mirrorless camera, teleconverter, large quick-release plate, and accessories. The head remains stable, movements stay controllable, and you don’t have to constantly worry about something tipping forward.

Arca-compatible camera platform with flexible height adjustment

The PG-2’s camera platform is compatible with the widely used Arca-style standard and accepts 38 mm dovetail profiles. According to the manufacturer, it supports, among others, Flexshooter 38 mm dovetail, Arca-style compatible 38 mm dovetail, Really Right Stuff dovetail, Wimberley dovetail, Pro Media Gear dovetail, and Kirk dovetail. This gives you a lot of freedom when choosing your quick-release plates or L-brackets and allows you to continue using existing accessories. Clamping is done via a classic screw clamp that can be finely adjusted and holds reliably even with frequent changes.

The platform is height-adjustable so you can balance your camera and telephoto lens precisely. Especially with long focal lengths, this balancing is crucial to keep the system in equilibrium and allow you to move the lens almost “weightlessly.” You will particularly notice the relief during longer sessions, such as hide photography or sports events.

Stable base with 3/8 inch UNC internal thread and integrated bubble level

The underside of the Leofoto PG-2 features a 3/8 inch UNC internal thread, allowing it to be mounted on common tripods with a 3/8 inch UNC thread mount. The base has a diameter of about 5.8 cm, providing a solid contact area that reliably distributes the forces of large telephoto lenses. An integrated bubble level in the base helps you align the system accurately, which is especially useful for architectural photography, telephoto work over long distances, or when preparing panoramas.

Ideal for telephoto, sports, and hide photography – and more

The PG-2 is clearly geared towards telephoto work, but it shows its strengths in several disciplines. In sports photography you can smoothly track fast movements without the system “tipping away” from you. In hide photography you can keep heavy telephoto lenses at the ready for hours without permanently straining your arms. In reportage photography you benefit from the quick responsiveness and the ability to react spontaneously to new situations.

At the same time, the head is also suitable for architectural photography when you work with longer focal lengths and need precise, repeatable pans. In combination with a suitable camera and appropriate plates, the PG-2 can also be used for panoramas, especially if you value clean, controlled panning movements.

Compatible with DSLRs and modern tripods

The Leofoto PG-2 is suitable for use with classic DSLR cameras as well as with mirrorless system cameras, as long as the combination of camera, lens, and accessories remains within the load capacity. Thanks to the 3/8 inch UNC internal thread on the underside, the head fits a wide range of tripods equipped with a corresponding 3/8 inch mount. This means you can usually continue to use your existing tripod base without having to replace the entire system.

Thoughtful details for practical use

On the arm of the gimbal you will find one 3/8 inch and two 1/4 inch accessory sockets, giving you additional options. Here you can, for example, attach an external monitor, a microphone mount, a small LED light, or other accessories without having to mount extra brackets on the tripod. This modular approach saves time and reduces the risk of multiple components getting in each other’s way.

The overall rather firm tuning of the system ensures that the gimbal does not oscillate uncontrollably but can be guided precisely. This controlled stiffness is particularly noticeable at long focal lengths and with small movements, for example when tracking a bird in flight or an athlete in the telephoto range.

Padded carrying bag included – safe transport, quick to deploy

The scope of delivery includes a padded carrying bag in which you can transport and store the Leofoto PG-2 safely. The bag protects the head from impacts, scratches, and dust and makes it easier to transport by car, train, or plane. Thanks to the folding design, the gimbal fits comfortably inside without you having to play Tetris to get everything in. This way your telephoto tilt head is quickly at hand whenever a spontaneous opportunity for wildlife, sports, or reportage arises.

Conclusion: A folding telephoto gimbal for demanding photographers

If you regularly work with long focal lengths and are looking for a stable, travel-ready gimbal head, the Leofoto PG-2 telephoto tilt head is a very interesting option. The combination of robust aluminum construction, folding design, high load capacity up to 25 kg, and Arca-compatible camera platform makes it a versatile tool for telephoto work, sports, hide photography, reportage, and more. The integrated bubble level, accessory sockets, and finely adjustable screw clamp round off the overall package and ensure that you can focus on what really matters in the field: your subject.