Which Type of Lens Plate?

[Julian Mole]

Hi,

I need to purchase an Arca Swiss style lens plate/ s for my two telephoto lenses (100-400mm and 400mm 5.6) but am unsure whether to go with a model specific one like this http://www.kirkphoto.com/Lens_Plate_for_100-400_f4.5-5.6_IS_Ring_collar_B_or_new_since_2002.html
or a generic one like the Wimberley P20 which will work for both lenses, http://tripodhead.com/products/lens-plates-features.cfm

I understand that balancing a telephoto lens is important, and that the balance point changes as you add extension tubes, flash etc, so I am thinking perhaps the Wimberley P20 would be better as it looks longer and should provide more scope for balance.

Please let me know your thoughts.


Thanks in advance,

Julian.

[Jeff Cashdollar]

I have both lenses and use the Wimberley.

[David Stephens]

The foot on both those lenses is relatively small, so the plate you've linked to will work for both lenses. If you later move up to the 500mm f/4L, you'll need a longer plate with two screws, but that lens is way longer and heavier than either of your two.

Dave

[Jeff Cashdollar]

I use the P40, gives me extra room to adjust my Kirk 1" clip and carry strap.

[Dave Hassell]

Have a look at http://reallyrightstuff.com/index.html and

http://reallyrightstuff.com/rrs/item...tatus=0&Tp=&Bc=

Dave Hassell.

[Julian Mole]

Hi Jeff, David and Dave,

Thank you for your responses. Having looked into it further I think I will get a Wimberley P20 plate, and add a second one when I can afford it.

Sadly there don't seem to be any 2nd hand ones for sale this side of the pond at present so will have to buy new. :-(

[Myer Bornstein]

Have a look at http://reallyrightstuff.com/index.html and

http://reallyrightstuff.com/rrs/item...tatus=0&Tp=&Bc=

Dave Hassell.

I personally use only RRS lens plates. they are solid and hold well in tripod heads. I use a Mongoose 3,5 B and my %00 f4 with a RRS plate without any problems

[Jay Abrams]

I have a Kirk bh-3 ballhead and a newly acquired Mongoose 2.3 gimbal. I use the Kirk LP-5 which was specifically designed for my 400mm f.5.6 lens. Kirk has a number of plates specifically designed for lenses and cameras. I use the ones that are designed for my gear.

[Alfred Forns]

Julian the 20 should be fine for those two lenses, for a 500 you will need the 40 Remember on some you will need a bushing !!

[Julian Mole]

Thank you Myer, Jay and Alfred.

I have decided to go with the Wimberley plates for both my camera and lenses.