I just picked up a Acratech GV2 bullhead, to have a solid ballhead I can use for years to come. However, now I have nothing to mount any of my gear on, I knew this so I have a back up 3 way manfrotto 3047 head for now. However, my question is I have a 5D and a 5D mark ii and I need a plate I can use on both that doesn't cost $220! (acratech universal bracket cost)
I know good stuff is not cheap that is why I got the Acratech bullhead, now is it me or $220 is just too dang expensive for a universal bracket. I don't need Aerospace standard Aluminum titanium bracket, i just want a sturdy universal bracket.
Just FYI, I will be buying a lens plate anyway for my 70-200 2.8 IS lens tripod collar. But I need something for my 2 bodies and I only need one bracket. What are my options? help
I recomend you skip any universial plate, and get a custom fitting L bracket from Really Right Stuff or Kirk. I would focus on the 5D2 to begin with, and get one for that for sure. Once you realize the value of a good L bracket, and also know how much you will be using the older 5D, you can decide if you want an L bracket for it.
Used RRS L brackets for the 5D2 are in the $100 category these days, and for the 5D a used L bracket should be around $60, so it is not that bad if you go that way.
A good custom fitting L bracket never slips or rotates on the camera, and it has proper custom provisions for the remote release to mount properly.
I was leaning towards a custom after doing some research and finding that everyone is saying the same thing when it comes to Universal bracket reviews on Amazon, google, etc etc.
I think I'll be looking for Kirk L plates, since the RRS plates and the acratech quick release clamp with detent pin have an issue. SO i was told (the detent pin on the clamp does not lock the RRS bracket in properly), again I have not tested it so I'm not sure.
sjms wrote:
actually the RRS will have no issue with the detent pin at all. why would you think it would?
In portrait orientation the L bracket for the 50D w/o grip will not catch the detent pin (right or left side) on the GP ballhead. The 1Dm3 has no issues. The 5D and 5D2 brackets looks like they will catch on one side but not the other in portrait orientation (RRS web pics). I do not have the 5D bracket in hand though.
I went ahead and bought a RRS 5D Mark II body only plate, I will give it a try. My concern was what nodal was highlighting but it doesn't sound like its a big issue to me for 5D plates.
I long ago decided not to make any use of safety stop pins on camera plates. I always confirm my placing of a camera on to a clamp with a firm tug before I let go of the camera, and for removal I always make sure I have a good grip on a camera before releasing the clamp, so my style does not need pins on a camera.
For a big lens on a monopod or tripod, safety stop pins on a lens plate may be more useful, and all my RRS lens plates have places for them if I want to use them.
sjms wrote:
i understand now because of the open slotted bottom end. but then again the same issue exists with the Kirk too as it too is an open bottom end.
well as we all did before thse notches and pins and such, be situationally aware and any of them will perform well.
Your're absolutely right. I torque and frequently check the screw clamp on my GP ballhead out of habit. Pins or no pins, stops or no stops, the camera doesn't go anywhere that I don't want it to. I like the fit of RRS L brackets.
Look at the Arca-Swiss L-Bracket Classic. The first L bracket mount is $220.00 but the base plate is interchangeable and a second base plate is $90.00. The base plate can be used either on the L bracket or as a stand alone.
I just received mine today and have been trying it out on a 5D Mark III. So far I am quite pleased. Over the past 6-7 years I have probably spent nearly $1000 on custom plates and L brackets. Hopefully those days are over. The only clamps it does not fit are the RRS lever lockers.
the AS L bracket is an option for a possible studio environment or multiple camera body owners or rentals. it is not one that you put on your body and let it remain though
weightwise it alone is just short of 9oz where your avg pro body model RRS or Kirk is about 5.5oz.
access to the battery is limited on certain bodies as is the side ports (if available). this is relatively easily resolved (see image)
I went ahead and purchased 2 L brackets for my bodies, both RRS L plates. I received one for my 5D mark 2 today and so far I am very pleased, I will be receiving my 5Dc plate soon. I have access to all my ports (USB, Remote shutter, HDMI etc). Mounts on my Acratech QR clamp as if they were meant to be together, no detent pin problem as I originally feared.
