Kirk QRC-2.4R quick release clamp

Kirk QRC-2.4R quick release clamp for precise and fast changes

Sometimes a quarter turn decides whether you still catch the subject or only see the back of the goose flying past. The Kirk QRC-2.4R quick release clamp is built precisely for these moments: compact, round, surprisingly robust, and clearly designed for speed and reliability.

The QRC-2.4R is a round quick-release clamp with a diameter of 6.2 cm and a jaw length of 2.54 cm. It weighs only about 85 g, is made of high-quality aluminum and is black anodized, so it blends in unobtrusively yet with a premium look into your existing tripod or head setup. The surface is durable, doesn’t scratch at the first touch, and overall feels exactly how you’d want pro accessories to be: functional, understated, long-lasting.

Arca-style compatible, work flexibly within the entire system

According to the manufacturer, the Kirk QRC-2.4R quick release clamp is Arca-style compatible and accepts 38 mm dovetail profiles. In practice, this means you’re not tied to a single system, but can use a wide range of plates and rails. The clamp accepts Arca-style compatible (according to the manufacturer) 38 mm dovetail, Really Right Stuff dovetail, Wimberley dovetail, Pro Media Gear dovetail and of course Kirk dovetail plates.

Especially if you already use several cameras, lens collars or L-brackets, this compatibility is worth its weight in gold, because you don’t have to rebuild or improvise every time. Click in, tighten, get going – without special adapters or DIY solutions.

Patented quick-release technology with screw clamp

Inside the QRC-2.4R works a patented quick-release technology from KES that brings together two worlds: the speed of a lever quick release and the finely adjustable security of a twist knob. There are no exposed internal mechanisms that could snag or collect dirt, but a closed, practice-oriented design.

Clamping is done via a precise screw clamp. By slightly loosening the knob by about 1/8 turn counterclockwise, you can quickly move or realign your dovetail plate without it becoming completely loose. If you want to insert or remove the quick release plate from above, turn the knob about half a turn counterclockwise, insert the plate and tighten again. In everyday use this feels surprisingly intuitive, because after a short time you can clearly feel how far you need to turn for everything to sit securely.

Robust reliability for continuous use

The QRC-2.4R is designed for robust reliability, not for the display cabinet. The black anodized aluminum provides stability while keeping the weight low, so the clamp also looks good on lighter travel tripods or compact heads. The round base with a diameter of 6.2 cm distributes the load evenly, which is particularly noticeable with longer telephoto lenses or heavy DSLR and mirrorless full-frame cameras.

The combination of precise screw clamping and solid material thickness creates a very confidence-inspiring feeling: once the plate is engaged and the knob is tightened, the setup simply sits solidly. No wobbling, no springiness, no “it’ll probably hold”.

Center mark with engraving for exact alignment

For clean alignment of your camera, a clear reference is extremely helpful. That’s why the Kirk QRC-2.4R has a neatly executed center mark as an engraving. This marking makes it easier to align the camera centrally on the head, for example when you’re planning series shots, repro work or very precise image compositions.

The engraving is permanent, easy to read, and not just a printed line that fades after a few uses. Especially with recurring setups, such as in the studio or in product photography, this saves you a lot of fiddling.

Anti-twist protection and mount for a square base

So that your camera or lens collar doesn’t slip unnoticed, the QRC-2.4R is equipped with anti-twist protection. In addition, there is a mount for a square base, which allows plates and feet to be secured even more effectively against twisting. This is particularly useful when you’re working with heavier setups or frequently shooting in slightly tilted positions, such as on a slope or uneven ground.

These small design details ensure that you can focus less on the gear and more on the subject. Once properly tightened, everything stays where it’s supposed to.

Precise manufacturing and integrated bubble level

The features include an integrated bubble level that lets you quickly level your setup. Especially in architecture, landscape, or any shots where the horizon really needs to be straight, this small level is a very practical helper. You don’t have to attach an extra spirit level; you can check directly at the quick release clamp whether everything is level.

The manufacturing is generally aimed at precision. The jaw length of 2.54 cm provides a secure contact surface for dovetail plates without adding unnecessary bulk. The interplay of base diameter, jaws, and screw clamp is tuned so that the force is distributed evenly and the plates are held form-fit.

Continuous 1/4" UNC photo thread

On the underside of the Kirk QRC-2.4R there is a continuous 1 x 1/4" UNC photo thread. This standard thread allows you to mount it directly on a wide variety of tripods, heads, rails or adapters that use the usual 1/4" connection.

The continuous design also gives you a bit more flexibility when combining it with different screw lengths or special adapters. This makes it very easy to integrate the quick release clamp into existing setups without having to search for exotic accessories every time.

Round design, compact height and practical handling

With a height of only 2.1 cm, the QRC-2.4R remains pleasantly low-profile. This means you change your system’s center of gravity only minimally, which has a positive effect on stability, especially with longer focal lengths. The round design blends harmoniously on ball heads or tilt heads and offers an even support surface all around.

In practical use, the combination of compact height, low weight and grippy twist knob proves to offer very pleasant handling. You don’t have to search for where to grab, and you can easily operate the clamp even with gloves.

For photographers looking for a reliable quick release system

If you’re looking for a quick release system that is ARCA compatible, robustly built, and doesn’t get in your way in daily use, the Kirk QRC-2.4R quick release clamp fits this profile very well. It combines patented quick-release technology with a classic screw clamp, offers an engraved center mark, anti-twist protection with a mount for a square base, an integrated bubble level, and a continuous 1/4" UNC photo thread on the underside.

All in all, you get a well thought-out, round quick-release clamp that integrates seamlessly into Arca-style compatible systems and relies on durable materials, precise manufacturing, and practical details. No frills, but a reliable tool that holds your camera securely and makes switching between different setups significantly easier.