Macro Focussing Rails

I'm considering one of these but am at a loss as to which one to choose. They all seem to have thier own pros and cons and I'd like to hear which one(s) you use and your likes and dislikes about each.

Thanks in advance.

Mark,

I've used the Kirk macro focusing rail for a couple of years or so now. I've been very pleased with it. Adjustments are suitably fine and I haven't had it set at any angle where my camera and lens slip. I'm pretty sure Really Right Stuff makes something similar and I would expect the same quality there.

pat

I second the Kirk. The cheaper brands work good for basic macro work but if you are doing focus stacking or working beyond 1:1, the precision on the Kirk (or RRS) is well worth the cost.

Mark: A lot depends on how many $$$ you want to spend. I would love to have a Kirk or RRS rail but as little as I use one it would be real hard for me to justify the expense. I have a Velbon that I bought several years ago for about $100. Since I can't post multiple images in the same response I'll put up four different views of it. I can make fine adjustments in two axes. There are lock knobs to keep it from moving once it is set in place. I have to use a Kirk universal camera plate to connect it to my ballhead but it works out OK. All in all I have found it easy to use and a good value. >=))>

View 2

View 3

View 4

i've been wanting 1 of these for a long time
have to save up & get 1 in due time

I hate to say anything bad about the RRS rail, but the one I had was completely useless to me. I needed one that would be good for making focus stacks, and the RRS rail does not move in a straight line. The frame moves around as you zoom in with the rail, preventing your images from lining up. I switched to the Kirk rail and am very happy with it. It's light but sturdy and works with my quick-release plates.

Thanks for the replies everyone.

John, I had pretty much decided on the RRS rail until reading your post....glad I asked.