Tripod quick release: Thinking about replacing my Camera/tripod quick release. My current release use's a thumb screw to secure the camera, but I find it inconvenient. I would like to...

BVBob Loc: Tri Cities, Wa.

Thinking about replacing my Camera/tripod quick release. My current release use's a thumb screw to secure the camera, but I find it inconvenient. I would like to hear what others are using. My camera is a D810 and I don't have any large heavy lenses. Something in the $ 100 range or less would be good.

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

I use (and like) a Manfrotto MH804-3W Pan/Tilt Head and bought an extra QR plate for my second camera.
The plate mounting screw has a pop-up ring for ease of tightening.
$88 at B&H, $16 for another QR plate.

rmalarz Loc: Tempe, Arizona

Bob, I'm quite happy with this quick release plate. https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/342302-REG/Arca_Swiss_802010_Quick_Release_with_Flip_lock.html
--Bob

BVBob wrote:

Thinking about replacing my Camera/tripod quick release. My current release use's a thumb screw to secure the camera, but I find it inconvenient. I would like to hear what others are using. My camera is a D810 and I don't have any large heavy lenses. Something in the $ 100 range or less would be good.

BVBob Loc: Tri Cities, Wa.

Thanks for your input Longshadow. I've never used a quality pan & tilt. I've always used a ball head. Do you have specific need for one over the other?

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

BVBob wrote:

Thanks for your input Longshadow. I've never used a quality pan & tilt. I've always used a ball head. Do you have specific need for one over the other?

I had a ball head on my tripod, just didn't care for it there. It always seemed rough getting the two planes set. With the tilt/pan I can do one at a time. Simply my preference for the tripod. Maybe because I've used a tilt/pan for over 35 years???
BUT, on my monopod I have a little Oben ball head...

pesfls Loc: Oregon, USA

I have used both qr and thumbscrew releases. If one’s use involves numerous mounting and dismountings then a quick release would be more convenient for you. Personally I like the security of the screw, but that’s just me. I like Acratech brand. Well made in the US and some versions a bit less $ than Arca Swiss. They both make fine products, I own each brand. As to tilt heads versus ball type to me it depends on weight & length of the gear. For lighter sets balls work fine, if you’re careful and they truly lock in place without sagging. That’s the nemesis of many lesser quality ballheads. Given your description of your gear I’d get yourself a good quality qr & carry on.

PixelStan77 Loc: Vermont/Chicago

BVBob wrote:

Thinking about replacing my Camera/tripod quick release. My current release use's a thumb screw to secure the camera, but I find it inconvenient. I would like to hear what others are using. My camera is a D810 and I don't have any large heavy lenses. Something in the $ 100 range or less would be good.

I like and use Really Right stuff. Superb quality. I like knowing it is secure, so my preference is with the screw locking one.
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1301183-REG/really_right_stuff_b2_pro_screw_knob_style_quick_release_clamp.html

BVBob Loc: Tri Cities, Wa.

Thank you! Your input helps a lot.

BVBob Loc: Tri Cities, Wa.

I appreciate your input. It will help in my decision process. Thank you!

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

BVBob wrote:

Thinking about replacing my Camera/tripod quick release. My current release use's a thumb screw to secure the camera, but I find it inconvenient. I would like to hear what others are using. My camera is a D810 and I don't have any large heavy lenses. Something in the $ 100 range or less would be good.

If you have plates and L brackets from different manufacturers, the thumb screw is likely the best choice.

Or you can get something like this - which has both a lever and a screw:

https://www.amazon.com/CL-50LS-Release-Adjustable-Knob-Type-Tripod/dp/B07D34K8FN

I have no experience with this, but it does look like it gives you what you want without giving up the ability to adjust for slightly different plates.

Hejnar Photo also makes a lot of different clamps - he may have something that works for you also.

.

(Download)

billnikon Loc: Pennsylvania/Ohio/Florida/Maui/Oregon/Vermont

Longshadow wrote:

I use (and like) a Manfrotto MH804-3W Pan/Tilt Head and bought an extra QR plate for my second camera.
The plate mounting screw has a pop-up ring for ease of tightening.
$88 at B&H, $16 for another QR plate.

Manfrotto makes one of the best and most inexpensive QR plates. I have used them for years and years and it is still going strong.

Al Freeedman

I've used a Sachtler quick release for over 30 years. Works great Not expensive at the time.
Hopefully you'll be able to find one.

Captain Al

ggenova64

Always leave your camera's attached with a QR Plate because it will eventually strip the threads!

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

I use these Manfrotto 323 RC2 plates on everything. They have a loop on the screw head so turning that screw is easy. I leave one on each camera.

https://smile.amazon.com/d/Camera-Mounts-Clamps/Manfrotto-323-Connect-Adapter-200PL-14/B000JLK5PU/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1545654796&sr=8-4&keywords=manfrotto+qr+plate

pcflash

Once again a lot of valuable feedback and information from many unselfish subscribers. It makes for an invaluable experience for me to be able to access this site. At 79 and having recent spinal surgery my 6 year old digital Nikon has been quiet but I stay engaged vicariously with all of your feedback, even that to what are sometimes repeat questions of somewhat similar subject matter. keep it coming please. Happy holidays to all and a most rewarding and healthy New Year, Jack 🤓