ATTN: Manfrotto 393 users

I wanted to share some info that might save you some trouble. The thumbscrew that you tighten when securing the QR clamp to the QR plate is brass. Why? I don't know. Anyway, I broke mine recently in the field. Obviously, it was a pain since the 500mm won't carry or support itself. I contacted Manfrotto, they told me to call the parts department and order a new one. I ordered 2 replacement assemblies reasonably priced at $12 something apiece- one to install and the other for a spare.

So if you're using this head, you might want to go ahead and contact them and keep a spare in your bag. It's very soft metal and obviously the weakest link in the chain. Avoid unecessary loss of time in the field!

Hope this helps someone!

Why not go to the local hardware store and buy a stainless steal screw for about $1?

Roger

Exactly what I did. But then you have to use an allen wrench to tighten down on the QR plate. It is no longer a "quick" release, and it's cumbersome to always have an allen wrench in my pocket. Simply replacing the broken brass screw which fits inside the thumb lever isn't an option since it's a custom made piece.

You can buy thumb screws at better hardware stores. I do it all the time for various projects.

Roger

Couldn't find one at Lowe's or Home Depot. Also, when the screw broke, the assembly came apart and I lost a few springs in the long grass. Replacement parts needed all around.