CO

Aluminum tubing would certainly be better than the u-shaped piece. I'm a mechanical engineer and machinist. I've made all sorts of things I've needed for photography on lathes and milling machines. If you find that something doesn't fit right or needs to be modified, I could machine it for you. I've used mainly aluminum and delrin for the parts I've made.

I order materials from MSC Industrial. You could go on their website to see if they have what you need. Another option is to look up steel supply companies in your area. Even though they usually deal with large quantities, they will saw pieces for you.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

I use Manfrotto, but they're definitely not lightweight. This Neewer might be good.
https://www.amazon.com/Neewer-Aluminum-Release-Adapter-Stabilizer/dp/B01FXK0YQQ

Or -

https://www.ebay.com/itm/KINGJOY-KH-6251-Portable-Aluminum-Camera-Tripod-Quick-Release-Plate-Adapter-/282288617630

Largobob

I use a Quick Release Manfrotto Tilt head (3229) that screws directly onto my Manfrotto Monopod (676B). Neither are particularly heavy.

(Sorry about the quality of the cell phone pics)

Monopod end + Tilt Head with QR

(Download)

Tilt Head with Quick Release

(Download)

rmalarz Loc: Tempe, Arizona

I've been using one of these for a couple of years now. https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/342302-REG/Arca_Swiss_802010_Quick_Release_with_Flip_lock.html
I use these on the cameras. https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/391058-REG/Arca_Swiss_802208_Square_Camera_Plate_1_4.html
--Bob

danersmiff

try this for cheaper


https://www.google.com/search?q=amazon+quick+release+plate&client=firefox-b-1&source=univ&tbm=shop&tbo=u&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiWvYLet7TZAhUBwFkKHeqkBcUQsxgIKA&biw=1920&bih=966

suntouched Loc: Sierra Vista AZ

Thank You- good to know.

Saycheeze Loc: Ct

https://www.amazon.com/Foto4easy-Camera-Camcorder-Monopod-Release/dp/B00TB09SKS/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1519133212&sr=8-4&keywords=monopod+head+quick+release

This may be what you are looking for

amfoto1 Loc: San Jose, Calif. USA

Okay... Do you have Arca-style quick release plates on your camera and lenses?

If that's the case, all you need is an Arca-style QR platform with a coarse threaded 3/8" hole (that's the standard size bolt used on most tripods, to fasten the head to the tripod).

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1007334-REG/sunwayfoto_dac_01_50mm_quick_release.html

If you don't have an Arca-style plate on the camera, there are platform/plate combos available, with a "universal" type of plate. (Note: A custom plate that's fitted to your particular camera model typically gives better anti-twist and is usually lower profile (since the plate is on the camera all the time and you need to grip around it).

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1043042-REG/giottos_mh667_quick_release_adapter_2_bubble.html

These would be a rather unusual way to use one of those, though.... because mounted directly atop a tripod leg set it won't allow you to tilt or pan the camera in any way. Usually these are used to add quick release capabilities to a tripod head. Placing them directly atop a monopod isn't uncommon (because you can simply lean or turn the monopod for tilt and pan movements).

You do have to be concerned if you'll be able to operate the release knob on your particular tripod. If it has a large, flat platform you may need a lever-style release instead...

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1154758-REG/cullmann_cu_40355_concept_one_oxc355_quick_release.html

Personally I prefer the type with the screw-knob, but they just aren't possible in some cases.

Arca-style quick release (originally created by Arca-Swiss) are BY FAR the most universal type... Many manufacturers make compatible plates, platforms and accessories (even Manfrotto and Gitzo have started using them on some heads). Some others are proprietary designs (such as Manfrotto, who in addition to the Arca-compatible they've recently started offering also have two different sizes). The proprietary type are less common, only available OEM and often don't allow some of the adjustment that can be done with the Arca-style. But if you go with one of the proprietary designs, Manfrotto are probably the most widely available. They have a small rectangular type and a larger hexagonal design for bigger cameras and lenses.... they are all "universal", but have a second set screw that can be used for anti-twist... though that requires drilling a hole in camera or lens tripod foot to use it.

suntouched Loc: Sierra Vista AZ

Thanks everyone. I went through all the links- appreciate your time and efforts :) and I found what I needed. It's amazing that you can spend 10.00 or 200.00 for the same type of thing- Light was what I going for because it will be mounted on a very light platform- not a tripod or monopod. When I complete this project I will post. Thanks again.

fetzler Loc: North West PA

Manfrotto RC2 Compact Rapid Connect Adapter (#3299) w/200PL-14 Plate (#3299) From Adorama (probably others)

https://www.adorama.com/bg3299.html

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Yes, VERY amazing.....and I use the $10 ones without a problem !

blackest Loc: Ireland

A lot of the time you mostly pay for shipping time, China can be up to 42 working days (as 2 days a week are not usually counted just under 9 weeks or 2 months to ship. Then you see a local seller who will get you the item within a few days and its the same item, but with a big mark up. It just shipped from china before you ordered it :) Worst is the drop shipper who still makes his markup and just gets the fella in china to put your address on it.

I once bought from a drop shipper who was around 16 miles from where i lived, anyway there was a problem so i went to the address given it was a largely empty unit with a black lamborghini countach outside and a table with a computer inside. He just sent the manufacturers money periodically and everytime he got a new order he just ordered it and they shipped to the name and address he gave them. Then you end up wondering why customs is demanding money for the item you thought you bought from the next town over.

jeryh Loc: Oxfordshire UK

Try REALLY Right StuFF.com. They specialise in these bits of kit; they really are well made.

Don, the 2nd son Loc: Crowded Florida

I'm useing these satisfactorily lately.
https://www.adorama.com/bg3299.html

WayneL Loc: Baltimore Md

You are looking for a clamp for QR plates, plenty on ebay.