Kirk TQR-MPL round quick-release plate (large) from 57 mm

Kirk TQR-MPL round quick-release plate (large) from 57 mm, for smooth changes without fiddling

Sometimes you just want to change the tripod head without endless screwing, cursing, and wobbly makeshift solutions. That’s exactly what the Kirk TQR-MPL round quick-release plate (large) from 57 mm is made for: you equip the base of your tripod head with a precise 38 mm dovetail quick-release profile and can then attach or remove it from suitable clamps in a matter of seconds. No rocket science, more like a quiet “Ah, that’s how it’s supposed to be.”

With its round form factor and a diameter of about 6.3 cm, the quick-release plate fits neatly on tripod heads with a 57 mm base, without protruding or looking out of place. You get a robust, twist-proof connection that is suitable for photo, video, and demanding outdoor use when things get a bit rough.

High-quality material: 6061-T6 aluminum and stainless steel

The Kirk TQR-MPL relies on 6061-T6 aluminum in combination with stainless steel, a material choice more familiar from professional mechanical engineering and high-end photo components. The 6061-T6 aluminum provides an excellent balance of weight and stability, while the stainless-steel parts ensure durable, corrosion-resistant contact points and fastenings. This keeps the plate dimensionally stable and reliable even after many assemblies, disassemblies, and transports.

This combination results in a quick-release plate that does not bend under load and maintains its precision for years. Especially when you use heavy lenses or complex setups with video head, slider, or gimbal, this solid construction really pays off.

Surface: satin silver anodized for subtle looks and protection

The surface of the quick-release plate is satin silver anodized. That means: no harsh reflections, no cheap glossy look, but a pleasantly matte finish that appears professional and remains discreetly unobtrusive in practice. Anodizing additionally protects the aluminum from scratches, wear, and corrosion, which is extremely helpful, especially with frequent outdoor use or constant setup and teardown.

In addition, the satin surface offers good grip, even when you’re out with cold fingers or thin gloves. It feels high-quality, not slippery, not “toy-like.” More like what you’d expect from a serious tool.

Dimensions: diameter approx. 6.3 cm, height approx. 1.1 cm

With a diameter of about 6.3 cm, the Kirk TQR-MPL fits perfectly on tripod heads whose base diameter is 57 mm. The plate provides enough contact area to distribute the load cleanly without adding unnecessary bulk. The height of around 1.1 cm keeps the entire setup pleasantly low, so your center of gravity does not move upward unnecessarily. This is a real advantage, especially with telephoto lenses or in windy conditions.

The compact dimensions also make the quick-release plate easy to transport. It disappears easily into a bag, backpack, or camera case without taking up much space, yet remains large enough to be mounted safely and comfortably.

Lightweight with substance: weight approx. 54 g

At a weight of about 54 g, the Kirk TQR-MPL round quick-release plate is pleasantly light without feeling unstable. You’ll hardly notice it in your backpack, but in use it feels surprisingly solid. This low weight is particularly interesting for travel photography, outdoor tours, or minimal setups where every gram counts.

Despite the low weight, you don’t have to compromise on stability. The plate is designed for continuous use and reliably withstands heavier setups as long as your tripod and tripod head are appropriately rated.

Includes 3/8" UNC mounting screw, ready for immediate use

So you don’t have to search for suitable screws first, the quick-release plate comes with a 3/8" UNC mounting screw. This screw is the standard for high-quality tripod heads and ensures a secure, play-free connection between head and plate. Simply screw the plate onto the base of your tripod head, tighten it firmly, and you’re ready to go.

The thread fit is precisely machined so the screw can be turned in and out smoothly without binding. This allows you to remove the plate again or mount it on another head if needed, without feeling like you’re going to “mess something up.”

Twist-protection for stable alignment

An important point that is often underestimated in everyday use: the Kirk TQR-MPL is equipped with twist protection. This means the plate is designed so it cannot unintentionally rotate on the tripod head once a load is applied or you pan the camera. This is invaluable, especially for panorama shots, video pans, or precise reproductions.

Thanks to this twist protection, your alignment remains stable even when you reposition the camera multiple times. You don’t have to constantly check whether something has loosened or shifted, and can instead focus on composition and subject.

With safety stop screws for additional security

The quick-release plate comes with safety stop screws. These small but crucial components prevent your tripod head and camera from accidentally sliding out of a compatible dovetail clamp if you haven’t opened the clamp fully or if it loosens slightly.

The safety stop screws engage with corresponding recesses or edges of the clamp, providing an additional level of security. This is particularly reassuring when you’re working with expensive equipment or shooting in situations where dropping the camera is simply not an option, such as on rocky ledges, in cities over hard ground, or during fast-paced reportage work.

Compatible with all tripod heads with 3/8" UNC thread

The Kirk TQR-MPL round quick-release plate is designed to be compatible with all tripod heads that have a 3/8" UNC thread at the base. This is the common standard on many high-quality ball heads, video heads, and tilt heads. You’re not tied to a specific system and can integrate the plate flexibly into your existing setup.

If you own multiple heads with a 3/8" UNC thread, you can equip them all with this or additional identical plates and thus build a consistent quick-release system. Once set up, you’ll save a lot of time and hassle when switching between different tripod heads or shooting scenarios.

Recommended for tripod heads with a base diameter of 57 mm

The Kirk TQR-MPL is specifically recommended for tripod heads with a base diameter of 57 mm. In this range, the plate sits particularly cleanly and flush, so the load is optimally distributed and there are no unsightly overhangs. This not only ensures a stable connection but also a visually pleasing setup.

If your tripod head has a base diameter of 57 mm, you’ll benefit from an almost perfect fit. The plate then looks like an integrated part of the head rather than an improvised adapter that only “sort of” fits.

Manufactured in the USA, precise machining and reliable quality

The Kirk TQR-MPL round quick-release plate is manufactured in the USA and thus adheres to the high quality standards for which US-made photo components and Kirk accessories are known. The precise machining ensures exact dimensions, cleanly finished dovetail profiles, and reliably fitting threads. This is especially important when you integrate the plate into an existing Arca-compatible system and depend on repeatable accuracy.

Production in the USA enables consistent quality control that becomes apparent in practice: the plate fits snugly in the clamp, doesn’t wobble, doesn’t jam, and can still be released quickly. A tool you mount once and then use for a long time without having to think much about it.