Converting a tripod head to Arca Swiss clamp?

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ian-83

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Has anyone converted a tripod head to an Arca Swiss clamp?

I have a Giotto's tripod which has there own style clamp fitted which is similar to the Manfrotto style ones. I want to convert it to an Arca Swiss style clamp as the standard clamp is beginning to wear out and I can't seem to find a replacement one.

Has anyone a recommendation of a cheapish but good Arca Swiss clamp? There seems to be loads on Amazon.
 
ian-83 said:
Has anyone converted a tripod head to an Arca Swiss clamp?

I have a Giotto's tripod which has there own style clamp fitted which is similar to the Manfrotto style ones. I want to convert it to an Arca Swiss style clamp as the standard clamp is beginning to wear out and I can't seem to find a replacement one.

Has anyone a recommendation of a cheapish but good Arca Swiss clamp? There seems to be loads on Amazon.
Click to expand...

There are lots of cheap Arca-swiss clamps and accessories on Amazon/ebay, most of them very good quality. I have loads of them, different clamps and rails etc.

In theory, swapping clamps is easy, and sometimes it is in practise too, but a) you have to get the existing clamp off and when they're firmly Loctite'd in place that can be tricky, and b) you then need to ensure your new clamp has the right fitting/bolt and there are a few variations.

If you know what you've got and can see what you're buying is right, then happy days. If not, you can always get things to work if you know what you're doing and have some basic DIY skills. Otherwise, it can be easier to just buy a new head.

Check out recent threads on this :)
 
HoppyUK said:
There are lots of cheap Arca-swiss clamps and accessories on Amazon/ebay, most of them very good quality. I have loads of them, different clamps and rails etc.

In theory, swapping clamps is easy, and sometimes it is in practise too, but a) you have to get the existing clamp off and when they're firmly Loctite'd in place that can be tricky, and b) you then need to ensure your new clamp has the right fitting/bolt and there are a few variations.

If you know what you've got and can see what you're buying is right, then happy days. If not, you can always get things to work if you know what you're doing and have some basic DIY skills. Otherwise, it can be easier to just buy a new head.

Check out recent threads on this :)
Click to expand...

Thanks for the reply, I have managed to undo and remove my existing clamp ok, just one Allen key holding it in place. Will have a search for recent posts to see if I can find some good recommendations.

Just searched and found another post where you recommend Andoer clamps? Do you find them well made and worth buying?
 
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I opted for a Wimberly sidekick, this mounts to the Giottos plate and slide on and off the ball head super quick if you need to hand hold as well.
 
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