Really Right Stuff: PG-01 LR: Compact telephoto tilt head attachment with B2-40 LR lever clamp / Ascend base

Really Right Stuff PG-01 LR telephoto tilt head with B2-40 LR lever clamp and Ascend base

The Really Right Stuff PG-01 LR is a compact telephoto tilt head that gives you smooth, controlled tilt movement for telephoto shots and panorama setups without having to carry a large head. Important, and we’d rather say it right away: there is no panning axis integrated here. You therefore absolutely need a base with a panorama axis; otherwise you can’t rotate the whole setup in a meaningful way.

The PG-01 LR is designed primarily for RRS Ascend tripods with integrated head. The fixed Ascend base cannot be panned horizontally, which is exactly why the panorama axis belongs in the base. When the setup fits, it feels surprisingly “tidy” and fast in use, especially outdoors when you don’t want to fiddle around for long.

made in the USA

The PG-01 LR is made in the USA and relies on materials that are appreciated in tough everyday photography: 6061-T6 aluminum and stainless steel. That’s not just a spec sheet point; you can feel it in the rigidity and in the feel of the controls. Despite its robust construction, it remains pleasantly light, with a weight of 0.439 kg. With a height of 17.0 cm, a width of 16.9 cm, and a depth of 7.6 cm, the packed size remains compact even when the head is mounted.

We also like the details: laser-engraved scales, an ergonomic design for straightforward handling, and the modular construction that allows completely tool-free assembly and disassembly. In practice this means: you set up the head quickly, take it off again, and can fit it into smaller bags without any hassle.

Arca-style compatible

On top sits the RRS B2-40 LR lever clamp, i.e. a lever clamp as the clamping type that opens and closes quickly. The clamp accepts a 38 mm Arca-style compatible (according to the manufacturer) dovetail profile, making the system compatible with many common plates and L-brackets. If you’re looking for an ARCA compatible setup, this is exactly the right direction.

On the underside there is a quick-release profile, and for direct tripod mounting there is a 3/8 UNC female thread. This allows the telephoto tilt head to be used flexibly on different tripods or on a suitable base with panorama axis, which is often the crucial point with panorama heads and telephoto tilt heads.

Tilt movement for telephoto, without integrated panning axis

The PG-01 LR provides an integrated tilt axis, but no panning axis. This is not a disadvantage, but rather a clear separation of tasks: tilting is handled by the head, rotation is handled by your base with panorama axis. For single-row and multi-row panoramas this is quite practical, because you can clearly separate the axes and keep operation straightforward.

The head is recommended for mirrorless cameras, DSLRs, and generally lighter cameras such as mirrorless and system cameras. For lenses it goes up to 70–200 f/2.8, and the maximum load capacity is 3.6 kg. That covers many travel and outdoor setups, especially when travel photography and panoramic photography come together and you don’t want to carry unnecessary weight.

Designed for panoramic and travel photography, but not overloaded with features

We see the PG-01 LR especially where things need to be quick: travel photography, a light telephoto, a panorama at a viewpoint, pack it away again. The head remains pleasantly “small” without feeling fragile. And because everything works without tools, setup stays relaxed even when it’s cold or you actually want to move on already.

Once again for clarity, because it’s really crucial: you definitely need an additional base with panorama axis. The PG-01 LR itself has no integrated panning axis, and the fixed Ascend base cannot be panned horizontally.