Kirk quick release coupling QRC-2.6

Kirk quick release clamp QRC-2.6, precise control for your everyday photography

Sometimes you don’t need any high-tech fireworks, just a tool that quietly and reliably does its job. That’s exactly where the Kirk quick release clamp QRC-2.6 comes in. It’s designed for photographers who want to secure, align, and release their camera quickly, without fiddling around or dealing with complicated mechanisms.

The QRC-2.6 relies on a robust screw clamp that gives you very direct, sensitive control over the clamping force. No lever that gets caught on something, no delicate internal parts that react sensitively. You turn, the camera sits, done. And when you want to release it again, a short, targeted movement is enough.

Arca-style compatible, flexible within the entire 38 mm dovetail system

According to the manufacturer, the Kirk quick release clamp QRC-2.6 is Arca-style compatible and works with many 38 mm dovetail quick release plates. For you, this means you’re not tied to a single brand, but can use plates and L-brackets from an entire ecosystem. The clamp accepts Arca-style compatible 38 mm dovetail profiles and thus integrates seamlessly into common professional setups.

It is compatible not only with quick release plates from Kirk, but also with numerous other 38 mm dovetail-compatible 38 mm dovetail plates, such as those from Kirk, ReallyRightStuff, Berlebach, Jobu, Benro, Sirui, and ProMediaGear. In short: if you already use Arca-style compatible components, you can usually just drop the QRC-2.6 into your setup and get started without having to convert your entire system.

Made in the USA, solid construction focused on durability

The QRC-2.6 is made in the USA and uses proven materials from the professional sector. The housing is made of 6061-T6 aluminum, a hardened, highly torsion-resistant light metal that can take a lot in everyday use without immediately showing marks. In addition, stainless steel components are used to provide extra stability and corrosion resistance.

The surfaces are black anodized and partially finished in a subtle satin silver. This coating not only protects against abrasion, but also ensures a discreet look that neither glares nor reflects in the image. Especially in reportage, nature, or studio photography, it’s pleasant when accessories don’t draw unnecessary attention.

Easy mounting thanks to 3/8" UNC photo thread

On the underside you’ll find a threaded hole with 1 x 3/8" UNC photo thread. This allows you to mount the quick release clamp directly on a tripod head, a tripod plate, or other compatible mounts. No special adapter required, no exotic spacers. In most setups you simply screw the QRC-2.6 onto the existing tripod thread and you’re ready to go.

Thanks to this classic 3/8" UNC mounting hole, the quick release clamp can be integrated flexibly into a wide range of systems. Whether you’re working with a heavy studio tripod or traveling with a lighter travel tripod, the QRC-2.6 fits in without fuss.

Patented quick-turn technology for fast operation

The patented quick-turn technology developed by KES combines the speed of a lever quick release with the safety and adjustability of a classic knurled design. You loosen the knob only about 1/8 of a turn counterclockwise to quickly adjust or reposition the quick release clamp. This is easy to do, even when you’re wearing gloves or the conditions outside are unpleasant.

If you want to top-load the quick release clamp or remove the plate upward again, you turn the knob about 1/2 turn counterclockwise. This way you can conveniently place the camera from above without having to slide it in from the side. In practice, this saves time, especially when you frequently switch between portrait and landscape, tripod and handheld shooting.

Integrated hex key, always there, never misplaced

A small but extremely helpful detail in everyday use is the built-in 5/32 hex key. This fits most quick release plates and L-brackets you use with the QRC-2.6. Instead of constantly searching for the right tool, you have it right at hand on the clamp.

Anyone who has ever realized on set or while traveling that the required hex key was left at home knows how annoying that can be. With the integrated solution on the QRC-2.6, you reduce exactly these typical mishaps. The hex key is permanently built in, so you can neither lose it nor forget it.

Precise alignment with bubble level and sensor center marking

For accurate alignment, an integrated level is provided. The QRC-2.6 features a bubble level that lets you quickly level your setup horizontally. This is particularly useful when working on uneven ground or when you’re in a hurry and don’t want to rely on the camera’s display.

In addition, the sensor center lines are laser-engraved. This sensor center marking helps you position the camera exactly above the axis of rotation, which is essential for clean panoramic photography. This allows you to create smoother transitions and significantly reduce parallax errors, especially when working with dedicated panorama heads or more complex setups.

Compact dimensions, pleasant handling

With a length of 6.6 cm and a weight of 122 g, the Kirk quick release clamp QRC-2.6 remains pleasantly compact. It doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the tripod head and at the same time has enough mass to feel stable and high-quality in the hand. The combination of 6061-T6 aluminum and stainless steel ensures a balanced ratio between stability and portability.

The surface is black anodized, which not only looks good but also protects against scratches and the elements. In daily use, you can handle the clamp without excessive care; it is designed for everyday photographic work, where equipment may bump into other gear, slide around in bags, or be used outdoors in changing temperatures.

Screw clamp for secure fixation of your camera

The QRC-2.6 relies on a classic screw clamp. This means you can determine very precisely how tightly the plate sits in the clamp. Especially with heavy cameras, long telephoto lenses, or when you’re doing panning shots, this type of clamping is a reliable partner.

The design deliberately avoids complicated internal mechanisms and focuses on robust reliability. As a result, the quick release clamp is less prone to malfunctions and remains consistently easy to operate even with frequent use. The result is a solid, everyday solution that proves itself both in the studio and out on the road.

Compatibility with common quick release plates and brands

Kirk quick release clamps like the QRC-2.6 are designed for the 38 mm dovetail clamping profile. This means they work with a wide range of 38 mm dovetail quick release plates. In addition to Kirk’s own plates, you can also use many other 38 mm dovetail-compatible 38 mm dovetail plates.

These include, among others, plates and L-brackets from Kirk, ReallyRightStuff, Berlebach, Jobu, Benro, Sirui, and ProMediaGear. If you’ve already invested in this system, you can usually continue to use your existing components. This keeps your setup flexible, expandable, and sensibly usable in the long term without having to buy everything new.