Really Right Stuff TA-3-LC leveling base for the Versa 3 tripod series from RRS with clamp

Really Right Stuff TA-3-LC leveling base insert for Versa 3, precise alignment without fiddling

If you really want to get the most out of your Really Right Stuff Versa Series 3 or a Gitzo Systematic tripod of Series 3 or 4, there is hardly any way around the TA-3-LC leveling base insert. You simply remove the existing tripod base plate and insert this unit. Done. From then on you level your setup quickly, cleanly and surprisingly effortlessly, even if there is a heavy video head or a full-blown full-frame combo on top.

The integrated 75 mm half ball with 75 mm video adapter bowl ensures that you no longer have to level the head via the tripod legs, but work directly at the base. With an adjustment range of 15 degrees in all directions, you can easily correct any tilt. Especially with video, architecture or panorama setups you will quickly notice how much time and nerves this saves you.

Light, stable, well thought out, built for tough everyday photographic use

Despite its robust construction, the TA-3-LC weighs only about 481 g. For a fully fledged leveling insert with integrated quick-release base, that is remarkably little. At the same time, the maximum load capacity is around 11 kg, so even heavy telephoto lenses, gimbal or fluid heads are held securely.

The total height of the unit is about 10.2 cm, the height above the tripod shoulder of the Really Right Stuff Versa 3 tripods is around 36 mm. This keeps your setup pleasantly compact and still allows you to bring your tripod into low positions close to the ground. The platform itself has a diameter of about 7.4 cm, providing a stable support surface for a wide range of heads and setups.

Made in the USA, quality you can literally feel

The TA-3-LC is made from high-quality 6061-T6 aluminum, a material that has proven itself for years in professional photo and video applications. The Type II black anodized finish not only protects against scratches and corrosion, it also looks pleasantly unobtrusive and barely reflects light. Especially in outdoor use or for long-term projects, this combination of stability and durability is a real plus.

We would say: this is not a showpiece for the display cabinet, but a tool for people who regularly stand outside in the rain, in the cold or somewhere on a slope and simply want their setup to work.

Arca-style compatible, quick-release base with versatile 38 mm dovetail clamp

The TA-3-LC features an integrated quick-release base with clamping lever designed for a 38 mm dovetail profile. According to the manufacturer, this base is Arca-style compatible and accepts a wide range of common dovetail profiles. These include, among others, Really Right Stuff dovetail, Flexshooter 38 mm dovetail, Leofoto dovetail, Pro Media Gear dovetail and Kirk dovetail.

In short: if you are already working with ARCA-compatible plates and rails, you can continue to use your existing system directly. No conversion, no adapter chaos. The lever clamp is fast, precise, and easy to operate even with gloves.

Comfortable operation, even with gloves and at low shooting angles

The ribbed rubber grip of the TA-3-LC is designed so that you can hold it securely with or without gloves. With a length of about 74 mm, there is plenty of room for your hand, without the grip getting in the way when you want to set up your tripod very low. This way, you can still level comfortably even for low-angle perspectives or macro shots, instead of struggling with half-blocked controls.

The grip turns easily to loosen or lock the leveling base. This allows you to adjust your setup quickly without constantly having to fiddle with multiple screws or clamps. Once you get used to this operating concept, you usually won’t want to be without it.

Precise alignment thanks to large bubble level

For exact horizontal alignment, a clearly visible circular bubble level is built in. The level has a diameter of about 12 mm and is positioned so that you can still read it easily even with a head mounted. Especially when things have to move quickly or the light is not ideal, this clear readability makes a noticeable difference.

The level helps you bring your system reliably into true level before you continue with fine adjustments on the head. This reduces potential sources of error and ensures reproducible results, whether in the studio or out in the field.

Compatibility with Versa 3, Gitzo Systematic and 75 mm video bowls

The TA-3-LC is suitable for Really Right Stuff Versa Series 3, Gitzo Systematic Series 3 and Gitzo Systematic Series 4. A prerequisite for use is a 75 mm video adapter bowl into which the leveling insert is integrated. The TA-3-VB video bowl included in the scope of delivery is an important component of the system.

Practical: the leveling unit can be removed separately from the TA-3-VB video bowl. This gives you the option of using other accessories for 75 mm video bowls when your setup requires it. This flexibility is particularly interesting if you switch between photo and video workflows or use different heads and adapters.

Standardized mounting thread for maximum flexibility

On top, you have a classic 3/8"-16 UNC mounting thread at your disposal. This thread is the standard in the professional sector for tripod heads, video heads and many special mounts. You can therefore mount a wide range of heads directly, without additional adapters or intermediate plates.

The deliberate use of an established standard makes the TA-3-LC a long-term sensible investment that integrates seamlessly into existing setups.

Ideal for panorama and precision applications

In combination with panorama accessories from Really Right Stuff, the TA-3-LC really plays to its strengths. A properly leveled base is the foundation for clean image sequences, whether you are planning classic landscape panoramas, multi-row panoramas or complex architectural shots. Thanks to the quick, fine adjustment on the half ball, you save yourself a lot of correction work in post-processing.

You also benefit from the stable, precisely adjustable base for video shoots, time-lapse setups or repro work. The system is designed so that you can focus on your creative work instead of constantly fiddling with the tripod geometry.