Thanks for the encouragement Andrew & Pete. I realize it's a proven military design, but when I see that my $5k camera/lens combo is supported by those 4 tiny ball bearings...
brad-man wrote:
Thanks for the encouragement Andrew & Pete. I realize it's a proven military design, but when I see that my $5k camera/lens combo is supported by those 4 tiny ball bearings...
How about 8 tiny ball bearings, doubling the psychological security.....
Seriously, though, when it works as it's suppose to, it's the best connection system there is. However, as I've stated in another thread about this, my camera worth over $5K ended up on a dirt ground when the QD (PMG's) that I was using turned out to be defective. Using an additional "safety tether" QD, my mind's completely at ease now.
brad-man wrote:
Thanks for the encouragement Andrew & Pete. I realize it's a proven military design, but when I see that my $5k camera/lens combo is supported by those 4 tiny ball bearings...
I can hardly afford 5K of gear to fall to the ground either. With that, I'm completely comfortable with this 2-point setup (Magpul MS4 Rifle Sling strap) on a the RRS modular L-Bracket for the D850 + 70-200 F2.8E lens. And only 8 ball bearings between the two QD's yet very secure
And yes, always check mount, attach points, and strap before picking up!!!
Magpul MS4 Rifle Sling strap on RRS L-Bracket on D850 + 70-200 F2.8E lens
I didn't like just one leg biting into my back on the carry. I managed to get a much more comfortable carry with two legs flat against my back by fiddling with the angle of the clamp. So much better!
Yes it is out in the open but the barrel of the QD is parallel to my back, not jutting out at a right angle to it. So yes there's potential for an accident but I think it's fairly unlikely.
peter_n wrote:
I didn't like just one leg biting into my back on the carry. I managed to get a much more comfortable carry with two legs flat against my back by fiddling with the angle of the clamp. So much better!
Man that strap is really tempting but $75 bucks is hard to get past. That said, I'm thinking about giving it a try and returning if I don't like it. Thing is I hate doing stuff like that; I'm the "if I buy it I keep it" person.
^ Current configuration of my RRS Series - 1 tripod is the TFC apex so it's 17.75" in length, it's a Mk2 model. The Leofoto LS-284C is the same length.
SSO-Images wrote:
How about 8 tiny ball bearings, doubling the psychological security.....
Seriously, though, when it works as it's suppose to, it's the best connection system there is. However, as I've stated in another thread about this, my camera worth over $5K ended up on a dirt ground when the QD (PMG's) that I was using turned out to be defective. Using an additional "safety tether" QD, my mind's completely at ease now.
8 does sound better than 4! Where did you get that strap you're using as a tether? All of the ones I see have the plastic quick-disconnect clips on them.
brad-man wrote:
8 does sound better than 4! Where did you get that strap you're using as a tether? All of the ones I see have the plastic quick-disconnect clips on them.
The tether strap is an old OP/Tech Pro Loop Connector that I used to use years ago. I just cut off the plastic clip on one end and replaced it with a locking D-ring.
This locking D-ring allows me to slide along the Peak Design Slide strap for quick and easy adjustments. One additional benefit of having the two QD connection system is that the camera with a long lens doesn't sway as much as when the camera is dangling next to your waist by just one QD connection.
peter_n wrote:
^ Current configuration of my RRS Series - 1 tripod is the TFC apex so it's 17.75" in length, it's a Mk2 model. The Leofoto LS-284C is the same length.
Thanks for the info. I saw those, but for some reason I thought the clips were sewn on. They should be perfect, I can put a QD swivel on each end and connect it at the extra socket on the sling. No need for the D-ring.
One thing I am noticing while doing my OCD research is that I read somewhere that the QD socket is supposed to have a SS insert that receives the bearings when in aluminum. It appears that RRS and Henjar only use milled aluminum without sleeves, while Kirk and Leofoto do have the inserts. I'm a little concerned about the longevity/security of the plates. I think I overthink and worry too much...
My question was more about fold length and balance.
Anyway, I've no need to be concerned about carry-on bags since I've not been on a plane (travel) since retiring from the military some 16 years ago. My photo world is strictly local, or when drive to see family in other states.
brad-man wrote:
One thing I am noticing while doing my OCD research is that I read somewhere that the QD socket is supposed to have a SS insert that receives the bearings when in aluminum. It appears that RRS and Henjar only use milled aluminum without sleeves, while Kirk and Leofoto do have the inserts. I'm a little concerned about the longevity/security of the plates. I think I overthink and worry too much...
Maybe so. RRS, Hejnar and Leofoto have a good reputation for using quality materials and finishing in their products and I've not bought a lot of Leofoto stuff but what I have bought has been totally reliable so far. The Leofoto carry strap on my RRS traveler has been in use for over a year with no issues and I'm not surprised.
brad-man wrote:
One thing I am noticing while doing my OCD research is that I read somewhere that the QD socket is supposed to have a SS insert that receives the bearings when in aluminum. It appears that RRS and Henjar only use milled aluminum without sleeves, while Kirk and Leofoto do have the inserts. I'm a little concerned about the longevity/security of the plates. I think I overthink and worry too much...
Not going to lie and say I didn't have the same concerns, which is also why I'm even more comfortable with the fact that RRS-L-bracket is milled instead of using a sleeve. That said, I've have no problem connecting a QD to a sleeved insert for lightweight stuff like a tripod/tripod strap.
In the end it depends on what you're attaching weight wise that should drive your buying decision. I do prefer the less is more approach as in less pieces to worry about failing.
All that said, I agree with peter_n, those companies use quality parts.
Andrew2 wrote:
Not going to lie and say I didn't have the same concerns, which is also why I'm even more comfortable with the fact that RRS-L-bracket is milled instead of using a sleeve. That said, I've have no problem connecting a QD to a sleeved insert for lightweight stuff like a tripod/tripod strap.
In the end it depends on what you're attaching weight wise that should drive your buying decision. I do prefer the less is more approach as in less pieces to worry about failing.
All that said, I agree with peter_n, those companies use quality parts.
I actually feel that the SS sleeve connection is superior in both strength and longevity. The sleeves are no doubt pressure-fitted into the plates and with modern manufacturing technique, that is a connection I would not worry about failing. The SS is much stronger than hard anodized aluminum. To further complicate the issue, RRS does feel the need to use an insert on their B2 QD dedicated clamp. I would like to hear the rationale on those decisions...
the answer is right in front of you. the 1/4" threaded hole right above the QD does not leave enough material. they chose then to use the Stainless QD insert to build the wall that supports the load on the threading. seems to work as i've had mine for a few years now and used that position quite a few times.
it also seems to be the one and only item of theirs manufactured using the insert. i will admit i haven't poured over their catalog looking for another using it.
I'm not buying that argument. If they required more clearance between the holes, all they needed to do was move the QD port 1/4" toward the handle. Much simpler and cost effective. I am continuing my research, but if I decide to completely migrate to the QD system, I believe I will be buying my plates from Kirk and possibly Leofoto. I have products from RRS, Kirk & Henjar, and they are all first-quality manufacturers, but it looks like RRS & Henjar decided to cut costs on their QD plates. When my Leofoto strap arrives, I will be in a better position to see how good their manufacturing is. I hope it is excellent as their version of the Arca-Swiss D4 looks quite attractive...
