Kirk quick release coupling QRC-2.6SB

Kirk quick-release clamp QRC-2.6SB for precise macro and studio work

You can tell from this quick-release clamp that it’s not just any accessory, but was designed quite specifically for demanding setups. The Kirk quick-release clamp QRC-2.6SB is specially matched to the Kirk macro rail FR-2, the Kirk single-axis tilt head MPA-2 and the universal adapter QR-AB1, and fits them perfectly. This gives you a stable, repeatable base that is extremely helpful for fine macro movements or precise tilt angles.

The square base on the underside of the clamp ensures that the clamp cannot rotate on the single-axis tilt head, the macro rail, or the universal adapter. Everything stays where it belongs, and you can mount the quick-release clamp in clearly defined 90° steps. This makes it easy to align your camera precisely without having to experiment every time.

Arca-style compatible for versatile 38 mm dovetail systems

The QRC-2.6SB works with virtually all common quick-release plates that have a 38 mm dovetail clamping profile. According to the manufacturer, it is Arca-style compatible and securely accepts a wide range of dovetail profiles. These include Flexshooter 38 mm dovetail, Jobu dovetail, Burzynski dovetail, Leofoto dovetail, Berlebach dovetail, Novoflex dovetail, Benro dovetail, Really Right Stuff dovetail, Sirui dovetail, Wimberley dovetail, Pro Media Gear dovetail, UniqBall 38 mm dovetail, Markins dovetail and of course the Kirk dovetail. This gives you great flexibility if you use different systems or already own plates.

The clamping jaw length of about 6.6 cm provides a large, secure contact area so that even longer plates run smoothly with minimal flex. The plates can slide safely over the clamp and, even with safety screws installed, retain their full range of movement within the intended travel.

Made in the USA from robust 6061-T6 aluminum

For the QRC-2.6SB, Kirk uses 6061-T6 aluminum, a material that in practice offers a good compromise between strength, weight, and durability. The quick-release clamp is black anodized, which not only looks discreet but also provides additional surface protection. This is complemented by stainless steel components, ensuring that the construction remains reliable even with frequent use or outdoor operation.

With a weight of around 125 g and a length of about 6.6 cm, the quick-release clamp remains pleasantly light without feeling flimsy. It is designed for permanent mounting on the tripod or tripod head, serving as a solid base that you mount once and then simply use in everyday work without giving it much thought.

Precise alignment thanks to laser-engraved scale

For exact positioning, a clearly legible center mark with laser engraving is integrated. The scale helps you align your camera or rail reproducibly, for example when shooting series, focus stacks, or recurring setups. Thanks to the laser-engraved scale, the marking remains permanently legible and does not simply wear off when you make frequent adjustments.

This fine graduation really shows its benefits in macro photography or product shots, because you can make small shifts in a controlled and traceable way. It’s a detail that is easy to underestimate at first, but one you won’t want to be without in everyday use.

Screw clamp with internal adjustment mechanism

The QRC-2.6SB uses a classic screw clamp that is easy and precise to operate. The adjustment mechanism is internal, with no protruding parts, so nothing gets snagged and the clamp remains pleasantly compact. The adjustment mechanism is designed so that you can quickly set the clamping force without fiddling around.

All screws are secured against falling out, which is very reassuring in practice. You don’t have to worry that an important screw might suddenly work loose during transport or when changing equipment. The quick-release plates can slide safely over the clamp, while the clamping mechanism holds reliably as soon as you tighten it.

Safety stops and reliable guidance of quick-release plates

Every Kirk quick-release base is designed to work in harmony with the safety stops of Kirk quick-release plates. The QRC-2.6SB has precisely matched recesses that interact with the plates’ safety stop screws. These safety stop screws prevent the mount from accidentally sliding out of the quick-release clamp, even if the clamp is slightly loosened.

This allows you to move the plate in a controlled way without it suddenly slipping completely out of the clamp. Despite the safety stops, the plates retain their full flexibility within the intended range of movement, so you can position your camera safely and comfortably at the same time.

Square base as anti-twist feature and stop

The square base on the underside is more than just a design detail. It serves as an anti-twist feature and stop, preventing the quick-release clamp from unintentionally rotating on the single-axis tilt head, the macro rail, or the universal adapter. This keeps the alignment stable, even if you frequently change the framing or reposition the camera.

In practice, this means you mount the QRC-2.6SB once, accurately, in one of the 90° positions and can then rely on a defined, repeatable alignment. Especially with setups that you assemble and disassemble frequently, this saves time and nerves.

Mounting options and use on tripod or tripod head

For mounting, there are through-holes from above, suitable for 1/4 inch UNC countersunk screws and M6 countersunk screws. This allows you to attach the quick-release clamp securely to many tripods, tripod heads, or adapters. It is designed to serve as a fixed base on which you repeatedly engage and disengage your quick-release plates with confidence.

This system enables fast, secure, and intuitive changing and locking of mounts. You can quickly switch between different cameras, lens collars, or rails without having to screw everything on and off each time. Once set up, it works surprisingly smoothly in everyday use.

Lightweight yet stable construction for daily use

The combination of lightweight 6061-T6 aluminum, stainless steel, and a black anodized finish ensures that the QRC-2.6SB performs well both in the studio and outdoors. It is light enough not to add unnecessary weight to your setup, yet robust enough to function reliably even under frequent use.

All in all, the Kirk quick-release clamp QRC-2.6SB gives you a well thought-out, precisely operating quick-release base that shows its strengths especially in combination with the Kirk macro rail FR-2, the single-axis tilt head MPA-2 and the universal adapter QR-AB1, and enables calm, controlled work with your 38 mm dovetail system.