Kirk KLP-260-2NL universal lens plate (66 mm) with QD mount and 2 screws

Universal lens plate for demanding photographers

Sometimes a seemingly insignificant part determines whether your setup feels secure or looks more like a DIY solution. The Kirk KLP-260-2NL universal lens plate (66 mm) clearly belongs to the first category. It is universally usable, precisely manufactured, and designed to hold your gear just as confidently in everyday use as it does on long tours or during hectic shoots.

With a length of 6.6 cm and a width of 3.8 cm, the plate weighs only 42 g, remaining pleasantly light without feeling flimsy. The double dovetail profile ensures stable, smooth guidance in suitable quick-release clamps, so you can mount and remove your lens quickly without nervously glancing at the tripod every time.

Made in the USA, robust precision for everyday photography

The KLP-260-2NL is made from 6061-T6 aluminum, a high-quality material proven in practice, just as at home in aerospace engineering as in professional camera systems. The material is strong, low-warp, and at the same time light enough not to unnecessarily bulk up your setup.

The surface is anodized, either satin-silver anodized or black anodized, making it more resistant to scratches and signs of use. The matte finish prevents distracting reflections, which is especially pleasant in the studio or for video work. You can tell the plate is designed for continuous use and not just for the occasional Sunday outing.

Arca-Style compatible, seamless integration into your quick-release system

The dovetail design is double-sided and, according to the manufacturer, fits into Arca-Style compatible 38 mm quick-release clamps. This allows the lens plate to integrate cleanly into common ARCA compatible systems without you having to deal with exotic adapters or special parts.

We’d say this is especially practical if you switch between different tripods, ball heads, or video tilt heads and simply expect everything to fit together. No fiddling, no guessing whether the plate really engages with the clamp. It snaps in cleanly and can be securely locked down in a controlled way.

With QD strap socket, quickly from tripod to hand

The plate has an integrated QD strap socket, a single, precisely machined QD strap socket that allows you to use QD-compatible strap systems. This is particularly helpful if you want to quickly remove your lens from the tripod and carry it directly on the strap without having to fumble with a carabiner every time.

To use this socket, you need a strap with matching QD strap anchors, which are available separately. You can find more information about this here. In combination with the plate, this creates a flexible system suitable for outdoor photography as well as for reportage or events where you frequently switch between carrying and tripod use.

Thought-out anti-twist protection and variable stops

The lens plate features a removable lip with a 90° and a 30° angle. This design serves as variable anti-twist protection and a stop, preventing your lens from working its way in the plate unnoticed or slowly rotating. Especially with longer focal lengths or heavier setups, this is a real advantage because you don’t have to constantly worry about loosening clamps.

The anti-twist protection is variably adjustable, allowing you to adapt the plate to different lens feet. “Universal” here is not just a buzzword but implemented in a genuinely practical way: the plate is universally usable and can be tuned to various combinations without you needing a completely separate solution for each lens.

Precisely matched for Sony 70–200mm f/2.8 GM OSS FE

The KLP-260-2NL works particularly well with the Sony 70–200mm f/2.8 GM OSS FE [SEL70200GM] (model year 2016). The length of 66 mm and the double dovetail profile provide a stable contact surface that is an excellent match for this telezoom.

If you use this Sony lens, the plate gives you a well-matched combination that significantly improves handling on the tripod. The weight remains moderate, balance on the head becomes noticeably calmer, and the risk of micro-movements when releasing the shutter is reduced. This is not to be underestimated, especially at wide open aperture or with longer exposure times.

Safety stop screws for extra security

There are 2 safety stop screws on the underside. These safety stop screws prevent the plate from accidentally sliding out of the quick-release clamp if you haven’t fully closed the clamp or if the lock is only slightly loosened.

That may sound like a small detail, but in practice it’s worth its weight in gold. Especially when you’re working with a tilted head or rotating the camera into portrait orientation and the entire setup is hanging at an angle. The screws act as a mechanical barrier and give you an additional safety net in case something isn’t fully tightened in the heat of the moment.

Fine details: threads, dimensions, and compatibility

On the underside of the plate you’ll find 2 x 1/4" UNC photo threads. These threaded holes give you additional mounting options, for example for special adapters, rails, or other accessories. This way, the plate is not just a simple link between lens and tripod head but can become part of a modular setup.

With a weight of only 42 g, it’s barely noticeable in your backpack, yet still supports a stable connection to the tripod. The combination of 6061-T6 aluminum, anodized surface, and double dovetail profile makes it both ARCA compatible and QD compatible, and thus versatile in modern photography setups.

All in all, the Kirk KLP-260-2NL universal lens plate is a low-key yet very well thought-out solution for anyone looking for a reliable, Arca-Style compatible and QD-capable lens plate that simply works in everyday use and integrates seamlessly into existing systems. No frills, just solid engineering that noticeably makes working with your equipment easier.