Manfrotto 349 Column Clamp - Replaces 3424

The title says it - consequently, the column (genuine Manfrotto part as well) rotates with any reasonable amount of clamping force. The internal parts are plastic and one can only tighten the thumb-screw so much without risk of breakage or stripped threads. This is certainly a limitation in my application, where I rely on having everything "square". Each time, that I touch the set-up, to finely adjust the head, the column rotates as well. Ughh.... FWIW, this is clearly different behavior compared to the fit between column and tripod legs. Those all grip tightly so the adjustment doesn't drift. The 349 Column Clamp is plainly bad. I'd had the "replaced" 3424 and it also held tightly. Second Ughh....

I can still use this clamp, but not like I wanted to. This will fit on a camera or light stand and hold something, not what I wanted.

Have purchased three clamps, 2 have broken. The weak spot is where the screw enters the lower jaw of the clamp. Both have broken at that point. So far Manfrotto has ignored my emails regarding any warranty. The clamp is a good idea but their design is flawed.