Kirk BL-Z7II L-bracket for Nikon Z7, Z7 II, Z6 II & Z5 with QD mount

Kirk BL-Z7II L-bracket, made in the USA for uncompromising precision

The Kirk BL-Z7II L-bracket is one of those typical parts that you mount once and then basically never want to be without again. Made from robust 6061-T6 aluminum and black anodized for a durable surface, it brings stability to your Nikon Z camera without looking bulky. The whole thing is made in the USA, with a very high standard of precision fit and workmanship that quickly becomes apparent in everyday use.

The shape of the L-bracket is precisely matched to the camera body. You still have access to all controls, flaps, and ports, even when the bracket remains permanently mounted. Thanks to its compact design and low weight, you can easily leave it on the camera at all times, whether in the studio, when traveling, or somewhere in drizzle by the lake. The depth of about 3.8 cm ensures a stable support in the quick-release clamp without adding unnecessary bulk.

The surface is black anodized, which not only looks good but also protects the plate from wear and scratches. An integrated hex key is included so you can tighten the mounting screw with 1/4-20 UNC thread on the spot without having to rummage through your camera bag for tools. This L-bracket is deliberately not universal, and not modular either; it is specifically designed for your Nikon Z cameras, and that is exactly what makes it so coherent in handling.

Specifically developed for the following cameras: Nikon Z7, Z7 II, Z6 II and Z5

The Kirk BL-Z7II L-bracket is specifically designed for the following cameras: Nikon Z7, Nikon Z7II, Nikon Z6II and Nikon Z5. No DIY workaround, no “it’ll probably fit somehow,” but a precisely fitting L-bracket for exactly these mirrorless Nikon Z models. The contours of the bracket follow the camera body very closely so that nothing wobbles or protrudes.

Because the shape is so precisely matched, all relevant areas remain accessible. Changing memory cards, swapping batteries, plugging in cables for tethering or remote control – all of this works even with the L-bracket mounted. The L-component is not removable, which increases stability and ensures that you always have the same reliable base in both portrait and landscape orientation.

Practical in everyday use: the sensor center markings on the L-bracket help you quickly find the camera’s optical axis. These markings are almost indispensable for panoramic photography, because they allow you to align your setup cleanly without having to constantly readjust. Especially if you frequently shoot panoramas or precise panning sequences, you will appreciate this small but important detail advantage.

Arca-style compatible for seamless work with quick-release clamps

The BL-Z7II is ARCA compatible and thus optimally prepared for a wide range of quick-release systems. According to the manufacturer, the 38 mm dovetail profile fits Arca-style compatible 38 mm quick-release clamps and works excellently with Kirk clamps, Wimberley clamps, Really Right Stuff screw clamps, and Really Right Stuff lever clamps. If you already use an Arca-style system, you can simply integrate this L-bracket into your existing workflow without major changes.

For more information and compatible Arca-style components, take a look here: Arca-style compatible systems.

Thanks to the Arca-style compatible profile, you can switch from landscape to portrait orientation in no time, without having to realign the camera. Simply loosen the clamp, place the camera on the other side of the L-bracket, and tighten the clamp. Done. The position remains significantly more consistent than if you had to completely readjust the ball head, which is extremely helpful especially for architecture, product photography, or repro work.

Safety stops on the underside prevent the L-bracket from accidentally sliding out of the quick-release clamp if you open the clamp a bit too far. These small screws act like a kind of “emergency brake” and give you additional peace of mind, especially when the camera is hanging in portrait orientation on the side of the tripod head.

With QD strap socket for flexible carrying options

The Kirk BL-Z7II features a QD strap socket – to be precise: yes, one. This QD-compatible socket is made of stainless steel and conforms to the common industry standard for quick-coupling systems. This allows you to attach and detach a suitable strap with QD strap anchors in seconds, without having to fiddle with the camera mounting.

Important for use: for the QD strap sockets you need a suitable carrying strap with QD strap anchors. You can find suitable straps here: straps with QD strap anchors. Without these special anchors, the QD function cannot be used in a meaningful way.

In addition to the QD strap socket, there is a classic strap eyelet to which you can attach a hand strap or a conventional camera strap. A PMG strap socket is not integrated; the focus here is clearly on the QD system and the solid, Arca-style compatible base. The whole setup is deliberately not universal but clearly tailored to the Nikon Z7, Z7II, Z6II and Z5 so that everything fits neatly and nothing rattles.

Thought-out details for everyday use with Nikon Z7, Z7 II, Z6 II and Z5

In daily use, it becomes clear how well thought-out the design of the Kirk BL-Z7II L-bracket is. The black anodized surface is resistant and pleasantly unobtrusive, so the L-bracket visually harmonizes well with the camera body. The stainless-steel mounting screw with 1/4-20 UNC thread ensures a solid connection between camera and bracket without constantly coming loose during normal use.

The existing hand strap eyelet allows you to attach a wrist strap if you prefer to hold the camera directly in your hand. At the same time, the QD strap socket remains usable, allowing you to switch flexibly between different carrying methods. The QD system itself is made of stainless steel and meets an industry standard designed for fast, secure couplings.

The sensor center markings on the L-bracket are more than just a visual detail. They help you position the camera precisely over the rotation axis of the tripod head, which plays a crucial role in panoramic photography. This way you can perform clean pans and avoid unnecessary offsets that would later have to be corrected with considerable effort.

The safety stop screws on the underside of the L-bracket prevent accidental slipping out of the quick-release clamp. Even if the clamp is opened a bit too far, the L-bracket usually remains in the guide until you deliberately remove it. This is particularly helpful when working in portrait orientation or when the camera is mounted at a sideways tilt.

Compatibility with FTZ adapter and practical usage notes

There are a few frequently asked questions about how it works together with the Nikon FTZ adapter, which we would like to address directly. You can attach and remove the FTZ adapter on your tripod head even when the BL-Z7II L-bracket is mounted on the camera. The design of the bracket leaves enough room for the adapter to be mounted and removed without having to unscrew the L-bracket first.

Likewise, the FTZ adapter can be removed while the BL-Z7II L-bracket remains on the camera. This is convenient if you switch between Z lenses and F-mount lenses and don’t want to rebuild the entire setup every time. The L-bracket remains your constant base while you attach or remove the adapter as needed.

At the same time, it is important to know: you cannot use the BL-FTZ on the FTZ adapter and additionally an L-bracket or plate on the camera at the same time. You can only use one plate or L-bracket either on the camera or on the FTZ adapter. This limitation ultimately ensures that stability is maintained and that no overly complicated stacked constructions arise that would be more of a problem than a help in everyday use.

All in all, the Kirk BL-Z7II L-bracket is a very solid solution if you want to use your Nikon Z7, Z7II, Z6II or Z5 safely, quickly, and with repeatable precision on an Arca-style compatible system, including QD strap socket and well-thought-out details for panoramas, portrait shots, and everyday photographic use.