Question about Sirui PH-20

The resistance for rotation around the vertical axis cannot be regulated continuously. It is either "open" or "gears scraping against each other" or "closed". Is it just me or is it designed this way, possibly to hit the exact degree for panoramas (a hindrance for me with the tele)? This was not the case with the PH-10 - but this was too small for a 300mm f/2.8 (centre of gravity of the lens too high). Thanks for feedback!