Kirk QR-AB1QR universal adapter mount with 38 mm quick-release clamp

Kirk QR-AB1QR universal adapter mount with 38 mm quick-release clamp, when different systems finally work together

You probably know the situation: you have a sturdy tripod, maybe a video head with its own quick-release plate, plus a few ARCA dovetail plates in use, and nothing really fits together. This is exactly where the Kirk QR-AB1QR universal adapter mount with 38 mm quick-release clamp comes into play. It turns many existing quick-release systems into a clean 38 mm dovetail interface and ensures that you can mount your camera quickly, safely, and without tinkering.

The system consists of a solid mounting block and a 2.5" or 6.6 cm long 38 mm quick-release base with screw clamp. The adapter is simply screwed onto the existing quick-release plate of your third-party system, sits there twist-proof on a square base and turns it into a full-fledged 38 mm dovetail coupling. This way you can continue to use your existing equipment without having to forgo the convenience of a unified quick-release system.

Arca-style compatible, universal 38 mm dovetail coupling for many manufacturers

The quick-release clamp of the Kirk QR-AB1QR works with a 38 mm dovetail receiver that, according to the manufacturer, is Arca-style compatible. This allows the adapter to integrate seamlessly into the common ARCA standard and accept a whole range of dovetail profiles: Flexshooter 38 mm dovetail, Arca-style compatible 38 mm dovetail, Really Right Stuff dovetail, Wimberley dovetail, Pro Media Gear dovetail and of course the Kirk dovetail.

The 6.6 cm long clamping jaw offers enough contact surface for stable fixation without being unnecessarily bulky. Thanks to the precise screw clamp, you can gently tighten your camera or lens foot until everything is free of play. All screws are secured against falling out, which simply saves your nerves in hectic use outdoors or in the studio.

If you generally want to learn more about ARCA-compatible solutions and their advantages, you can find further information in our section for ARCA systems: ARCA compatible.

Made in the USA, precision manufacturing from 6061-T6 aluminum

The QR-AB1QR is made from high-quality 6061-T6 aluminum, a material that is almost standard in professional photo and video applications when it comes to the ratio of strength to weight. This is complemented by components made of stainless steel, so you don't have to worry about corrosion even with frequent outdoor use.

The surface is black anodized, which not only looks classy but also provides a durable finish. This anodized layer protects the material from scratches and wear, even when the adapter regularly comes into contact with other metal accessories in your bag. With a weight of around 184 g, the system remains pleasantly light without feeling wobbly or delicate.

Compatible quick-release plates, Sachtler, Gitzo, Manfrotto, Sirui and more

The QR-AB1QR becomes particularly interesting if you already use another quick-release system. The adapter is designed to be mounted on existing quick-release plates from various manufacturers. These include, among others:

• Sachtler quick-release plates
• Gitzo quick-release plates
• Manfrotto RC2 plates
• Manfrotto RC4 plates
• Manfrotto hexagonal plates
• Sirui video plates

The mounting block is screwed onto the respective third-party plate and secured against twisting by a 2-point screw connection or a single-point screw connection with additional set screws. This creates a stable, form-fitting connection that also proves itself with heavy setups. We would call it a classic case of “old base, new life”.

Flexible orientation, 90° steps for longitudinal or transverse to the optical axis

The Kirk quick-release clamp can be aligned on the mounting block in 90° steps. You can mount it either longitudinally or transversely to the optical axis. In each of these positions, the clamp is screwed in place with a form-fitting anti-twist connection. If you want to change the orientation, simply loosen the screw connection, realign the clamp and then tighten the screw by hand again.

This flexibility is particularly practical when you switch between portrait and landscape format or combine different setups with video and photo heads. You don't have to rebuild the entire system, you just reposition the clamp. It sounds simple, and it is, but in practice it saves a surprising amount of time.

Precise handling, laser engraving, scale and secure screw clamp

For precise alignment, the quick-release base features an easily readable center mark with laser engraving and scale. This makes it easier to mount cameras or lenses in a centered position, for example when you need reproducible setups in the studio or simply like to work accurately.

The screw clamp operates with an internally guided adjustment mechanism without protruding components. This reduces the risk of snagging on something and ensures a compact design. Thanks to the screw principle, you can dose the clamping pressure very finely, which is particularly reassuring when working with sensitive equipment.

Mounting options and connections, versatile threaded holes

On the underside of the mounting block you will find 22 threaded holes with 1/4" UNC photo thread. This large number of holes allows you to position the adapter very flexibly on different plates and heads. You can therefore optimally adapt the QR-AB1QR to your existing setup instead of having to stick to a fixed standard position.

Central mounting is carried out by screwing through from above with 1/4" UNC countersunk screws or M6 countersunk screws. This ensures a flush and secure connection without protruding screw heads that might get in the way. The square base serves as anti-rotation protection and stop, so the adapter cannot slip unnoticed.

Fast, safe operation, one system for smooth workflows

The entire system is designed to enable fast, safe and intuitive changing and fixing of mounts. You place the ARCA-compatible plate into the 38 mm dovetail coupling, tighten the screw clamp and you are ready to go. No fiddling, no guessing whether the camera is really seated correctly.

Because all screws are secured against falling out, you can also use the adapter in the field or when traveling without constantly worrying that a small screw might work itself loose somewhere. All in all, this creates a working feel that is perhaps best described as “unobtrusively reliable”. It just works without pushing itself into the spotlight.

Compatibility with additional 38 mm dovetail plates

Kirk quick-release bases like the QR-AB1QR are designed as 38 mm dovetail couplings. This means they work not only with quick-release plates from Kirk itself, but also with many other 38 mm dovetail plates. These include, among others:

• Kirk
• Really Right Stuff
• Berlebach
• Jobu
• Benro
• Sirui
• ProMediaGear and other compatible manufacturers

This allows you to continue using your existing dovetail plates and you don’t have to maintain a separate system for every tripod or head. Especially if you have collected different brands over the years, this universal approach is extremely practical. It feels a bit as if several ecosystems were agreeing on a common denominator.

Technical data of the Kirk QR-AB1QR at a glance

For those who like things concrete, here are the most important technical key data of the universal adapter mount:

• System: mounting block with 2.5" / 6.6 cm 38 mm quick-release base
• Clamp type: screw clamp with internally operating adjustment mechanism without protruding components
• Material: 6061-T6 aluminum and stainless steel
• Finish: black anodized surface
• Weight: approx. 184 g
• Length of clamping receiver / clamping jaw length: approx. 6.6 cm (2.5")
• Anti-rotation protection: square base as stop
• Threaded holes underside: 22 x 1/4" UNC photo thread
• Mounting hole: through-screwing from above with 1/4" UNC countersunk and M6 countersunk
• Center mark: laser engraving with scale
• Clamp orientation: can be mounted longitudinally or transversely to the optical axis in 90° steps
• Compatible 38 mm dovetail systems: Flexshooter, Arca-style compatible, Really Right Stuff, Wimberley, Pro Media Gear, Kirk and other 38 mm dovetail plates

All in all, the Kirk QR-AB1QR universal adapter mount with 38 mm quick-release clamp is a well-thought-out solution for anyone who wants to bring together different quick-release systems and convert to a unified, ARCA-compatible 38 mm dovetail format without giving up their existing equipment. If you value solid workmanship, high compatibility and pleasantly straightforward handling, this adapter fits very well into a modern, professional setup.