Arca-swiss plates for Leica film cameras

[edshreds]

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Hey everyone,

I'm looking for feedback on using a Acratech tripod plate. Seen here: https://www.acratech.net/leica-m-m6-custom-plate-by-acratech/

Has anyone used one of these before? I am currently using a Metrocase Leica M grip (http://www.metro-case.com/grips/leicam, which has an integrated Arca-swiss clamp, however it is 3D printed and the clamp surfaces are starting to wear, plus it isn't the most elegant solution. I've had to sand and repaint it already. Very comfortable though. Having a tripod mount discretely fitted is a big plus for me, so if any of you know of other solutions I am all ears!

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[jkcampbell2]

I have an older Kirk plate on my M6 which seems to be pretty similar to the Arcatech. Works OK but does feel a little bulky. I do like that it provides an Arca dovetail but also still provides a standard 1/4 20 tripod screw. A little off topic, I use the Wimberly P5 on my M9 which has the tripod mount centered on the baseplate, so this will not work for the Leica film cameras. I really like the Wimberly plate, no sharp edges, don't have to take it off to take out the battery or SD card and I don't seem to really notice that's it's there, unlike the Kirk plate.   Cheers, jc

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[logan2z]

I bought an Acratech plate for my M-A and my Hasselblad 500 C/M.  So far I've only used it on the Hasselblad and it works great and is well made.  I don't see why it wouldn't work equally well on the Leica but I haven't personally used it yet.

Edited April 17, 2020 by logan2z

[spydrxx]

I've used several over the years, Kirk, Acratech, Leica...but my absolute favorite has been the ML Grip by Photo Equip shown on my M4. It doesn't have the baseplate grooves, but it fits in my tripod clamp securely, and of course also  has a lens-centric screw hole for use on any tripod or monopod.

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[DickieT]

Hi - I use a plate from ReallyRightStuff, I believe it is the B39. It is much smaller but fits nice and snug. If I remember correctly, they also had a grip.

[edshreds]

Thank you to everyone who replied, this has been most helpful!

I think I will give the Acratech one a go - jkcampbell2 it looks most like the Kirk Enterprises one and that seems to be just what I am after. I don't really need the tripod screw as I'm just using Arca-swiss for all my mounts, but it is good to keep in mind.

logan2z - thank you for some first hand experience! Good to know they seem quality.

spydrxx - that grip is lovely, really, but I think for my M7 it would be a bit much, and I'm really looking for Arca-swiss only. Very jealous of that for my M3 though!

DickieT - I think the grip from ReallyRightStuff has been discontinued. I remember seeing it when I bought the Metro grip, and thinking it might be an upgrade, but now I can't seem to find it.

Thank you again all for your advice!