Arca F Line Configuration

[Palantiri7]

No, the Calumet should be just fine. The telescoping 30cm rail should be okay, but if you think you may spring for a conversion set later on (5x7/8x10), it's best to get the 40cm/50cm rail now. My 8x10 uses the 25cm extension bracket attached to a 30cm rail, and the union isn't exactly totally rigid.

[jeroldharter]

Thanks for the advice.

I purchased an Arca F-Line Metric with Micrometric Orbix with 141 mm front/back standards along with an RZ-1 ballhead from Rod Klukas at Photomark. It came with a 30 cm telescoping rail and the standard bellows. I bought the wide angle bellows also. It was all in stock and came to me assembled and tested by Rod. Photomark sent an Arca board directly to SK Grimes and I am waiting for the adapted board to fit my Canham boards which are much smaller and cheaper.

My next issue is how to carry the camera. The standard bellows are synthetic and extend somewhat beyond the margins for the front and rear standards so I don't want to bang them around or abrade them. I will get a Pelican case which is easily configured. But what sort of backpack do people use, or more precisely, how do you store the camera within the pack? I know to compress the standards and remove the short rail from the telescoping rail. But I don't like the idea of placing the standards and bellows loose in a pack. Seems like it should have its own enclosure for protection. Any ideas or photos of personal setups appreciated.

I have not had a chance to use the camera yet. But I put the RZ-1 head on my Berlebach tripod and it is a gem. It holds the camera with confidence. The camera itself is a beauty. Everything seems flawless. The geared movements are tight and smooth. I think its design will suit/improve my method of working and am eager to get going.

[Palantiri7]

I put mine (4x5) in a Lowepro Phototrekker AW II, and wrap the camera in the darkcloth. I unlock all locks on the camera. My camera is the 171 version, and I would indeed worry about the bellows in the 141 version. I'd probably remove the bellows if I had the 141, but actual users of the 141 version would likely give you a better answer.