Kirk KLP-525 universal lens plate (133 mm) with QD mount

Kirk KLP-525 Universal Lens Plate 133 mm, robust, precise, universal

If you want to securely fix long telephoto lenses or heavy setups on a tripod without fiddling around every time, you will sooner or later end up with a cleanly milled lens plate. The Kirk KLP-525 Universal Lens Plate (133 mm) falls exactly into this category: a stable 13.3 cm long base made of 6061-T6 aluminum, double dovetail profile, universally usable and designed for durability. At 82 g it remains pleasantly light, but with a width of 3.8 cm it is clearly geared towards stability.

The surface is either satin-silver anodized or black anodized, which not only looks stylish but also reliably protects the plate from scratches and corrosion. The captive stainless-steel screw ensures that no important part disappears in the grass when you are on the move. In short: once mounted, you won’t want to give this part up anytime soon.

Arca-style compatible, fits common quick-release clamps

The 38 mm dovetail clamping profile is ARCA compatible and, according to the manufacturer, Arca-style compatible (38 mm quick-release clamps). This means for you: the KLP-525 sits cleanly and without play in a whole range of clamps and heads that you may already be using. These include, among others, FlexShooter lever cross clamp, FlexShooter screw cross clamp, ProMediaGear clamps, Wimberley clamps, Really Right Stuff screw clamps, Really Right Stuff lever clamps, Jobu Design clamps, Acratech lever clamps, Acratech screw clamps and of course Kirk clamps.

If you are generally interested in ARCA compatible solutions, it is worth taking a look at additional matching quick-release systems under ARCA compatible. This allows you to build your system consistently step by step without constantly having to screw adapters in between.

With QD strap anchor mount, QD compatible for flexible carrying options

A practical detail that you quickly learn to appreciate: the Kirk KLP-525 has a QD strap mount, more precisely a QD strap anchor mount, i.e. an integrated socket for a quick-detach strap anchor. The plate is QD compatible, so you can attach a suitable carrying strap with QD strap anchors directly to the lens plate without additional eyelets or DIY solutions.

Please note: To use the QD strap mount you need a suitable strap with QD strap anchors. Further information and matching straps can be found under QD strap anchors. This effectively turns the lens plate into a carrying base for your telephoto lens, especially pleasant on longer walks between two locations.

Made in the USA, precisely milled from 6061-T6 aluminum

The Kirk KLP-525 is made in the USA and manufactured from high-quality 6061-T6 aluminum. This material is a true classic in the photo sector because it offers a very good ratio of weight, rigidity and durability. The plate is precisely CNC-milled, which ensures clean edges, exact dimensions and a reliable fit in quick-release clamps.

The matte-looking anodized surface, satin-silver anodized or black anodized depending on the version, reduces distracting reflections and makes the plate more resistant to signs of use. Especially outdoors, when the equipment sometimes ends up in sand, in the forest or on rocks, this robust finish quickly pays off.

Universal lens plate with double dovetail profile

The KLP-525 is designed as a universal lens plate, meaning it is not intended for just a single lens model but deliberately flexible. The double dovetail profile with a width of 38 mm ensures that the plate is securely guided in many ARCA compatible quick-release clamps. Thanks to the universal design, you can use it on different lens feet or tripod collars without having to buy a special plate every time.

On the underside you will find 3 x 1/4" UNC photo threads and 1 x 3/8" UNC photo thread. This combination makes it possible to screw the plate directly onto a tripod head or another quick-release base if required. This is particularly practical if you are mixing different systems or want to continue using existing tripod heads.

Variable anti-twist protection with removable lip

An important detail that is often underestimated in everyday use: anti-twist protection. The Kirk KLP-525 features a removable lip for optimal anti-twist protection. This anti-twist lip can be positioned at an angle of 90° or 30°, depending on the application. This allows you to adapt it to the shape of the lens foot and prevent the lens from twisting under lateral load.

The anti-twist protection is designed to be variable, which means you can adjust or remove it if another configuration better suits your setup. Especially with heavy telephoto lenses, this anti-twist stop is a real safety factor because it distributes forces better and keeps the connection between lens and tripod stable.

Compatibility with Sony and Canon RF telephoto lenses

The Kirk KLP-525 Universal Lens Plate is universally usable but is particularly well suited for large telephoto lenses as used in sports, wildlife photography or for distant subjects. For Sony lenses it is suitable, among others, for:

• Sony 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS FE [SEL400F28GM] (2018)
• Sony 600mm f/4 GM OSS FE [SEL600F40GM] (2019)
• Sony 400mm f/2.8 GM OSS FE [SEL400F28GM]

The plate is also interesting for Canon RF lenses, in particular for the Canon RF 200-800mm f/6.3-9.0 IS USM (2023). However, there is an important note here that you should not overlook.

Caution: For some lenses, for example the Canon RF 200-800mm f/6.3-9 IS USM, a reducing sleeve is required in order to mount the plate correctly and safely. In such cases, a thread reducer from 3/8" to 1/4" is needed so that the screw connection sits cleanly and does not wobble. Without this reducing sleeve, the connection may not engage optimally, which should definitely be avoided with heavy lenses.

Safety stop screws and quick-release coupling, more safety in everyday use

Two safety stop screws are installed on the underside of the KLP-525. These small but very important screws prevent the plate from accidentally sliding out of the quick-release coupling if the clamp is not fully opened. Especially when repositioning the tripod or quickly changing position, this is a real safety benefit because the plate is held in the clamp even if you slide it a bit forward or backward.

In combination with the double dovetail profile, this results in a very stable system that holds reliably even with tilted heads or in dynamic situations. You can tell that this plate is designed for practical use and not just for the studio table.

Practical dimensions and well-thought-out details for everyday photography

With a length of 13.3 cm, the Kirk KLP-525 offers enough contact surface to securely support large lens feet without being unnecessarily bulky. The width of 3.8 cm provides a good balance between stability and compatibility with common clamps. The weight of 82 g is pleasantly low, so the plate does not unnecessarily weigh down your setup, yet it is still solid enough to convey a satisfying, confidence-inspiring feel.

The combination of universal design, ARCA compatible profile, QD compatible strap mount, variable anti-twist lip and multiple photo threads makes the Kirk KLP-525 a very versatile lens plate. Whether you are shooting wildlife, sports, landscapes or travel, whether you are using Sony telephoto lenses or a Canon RF 200-800mm, this plate integrates unobtrusively but reliably into your setup.

In the end, it is often precisely this inconspicuous accessory that makes the difference at the decisive moment. A solid universal lens plate that simply works, integrates into your Arca-style compatible system and gives you peace of mind with its QD strap anchor mount and safety stop screws when you are out in the field with expensive glass. That is exactly what the Kirk KLP-525 is built for.