Nature Photographers Network
This is the preserved archive of the original Nature Photographers Network. The community continues at naturephotographers.network.

focussing rail

Discussion

6 replies
Posted by Prashant Khapane on May 11, 2006 at 11:43 AM
I'm looking for a budget focussing rail. Which one do you suggest?
Posted by Nathan Buck on May 11, 2006 at 11:56 AM
I am thinking of getting one too Prashant, since I just ordered a macro lens. I have looked at the Velbon several times on eBay, this one seems to be pretty well built. It often goes for around $80 US. I know that Skip Layman bought one a year or so ago, I just do not remember which brand.

Nathan
Posted by Pete D on May 11, 2006 at 2:17 PM
See if you can try one before you buy. I got one and found that it was too much hassle to use. Now, if I had one that was Arca-Swiss compatible top and bottom that would be a different story. It's not worth $300 to me though!

Pete D.
Posted by Bill Fach on May 11, 2006 at 3:31 PM
Prashant: I have a Velbon and find it very workable. I use a universal Arca Swiss plate to connect it to my tripod and the rig, while a little unwieldy, works well. The movements are pretty smooth. >=))>
Posted by Mark Kraus on May 11, 2006 at 8:41 PM
You may want to take a look at the Bogan Manfrotto MICRO POSITIONING PLATE / Cat. No: 3419
I think they sell for about $85.00 US. I have used a older style I purchased about 15 yrs agol
MK
Posted by Rod Barbee on May 12, 2006 at 3:43 PM
If you don't need the geared adjustments of a focusing rail, try a focusing slider like the one offered by Kirk.
They work great in the field, as long as you don't need too much magnification. I regularly use mine for greater than lifesize shots (up to about 2X). Best $120 I ever spent on a photo accessory
Posted by Rod Barbee on May 12, 2006 at 7:13 PM
If you don't need the geared adjustments of a focusing rail, try a focusing slider like the one offered by Kirk.
They work great in the field, as long as you don't need too much magnification. I regularly use mine for greater than lifesize shots (up to about 2X). Best $120 I ever spent on a photo accessory