I put this video together very quickly today just to show why L-Brackets are so nice.  Yes, they’re expensive, and I know a lot of people wonder what the fuss is about and why you’d want to spend that much money for a clamp and bracket…  But I can say it’s one of the few pieces of gear I’ve NEVER questioned once I got it which says a lot if you know anything about me.  Watch the video, if you use a tripod enough to be considering one, I’m sure the video will sell you on the concept.  If it doesn’t sell you than they’re not for you.