Leofoto LHC-60 quick release clamp with knurl

Leofoto LHC-60 quick-release clamp with knurled knob for precise photography

Sometimes a small part decides whether a shoot runs smoothly and under control, or whether you’re constantly fiddling with the tripod. The Leofoto LHC-60 quick-release clamp with knurled knob is exactly such a part: inconspicuous, compact, but extremely practical in everyday use. It upgrades existing ball heads to a modern quick-release system and makes your setup significantly more flexible without you having to replace your entire kit.

Arca-style compatible, versatile 38 mm dovetail clamp

According to the manufacturer, the LHC-60 is Arca-style compatible and accepts a 38 mm dovetail. This makes it suitable for a whole range of common systems: Flexshooter 38 mm dovetail, Leofoto dovetail, Really Right Stuff dovetail, Wimberley dovetail and Kirk dovetail. In short: if you already use Arca-style compatible quick-release plates or rails, you can generally continue to use them directly. This 38 mm dovetail clamp is therefore a kind of universal adapter for many high-quality tripod heads.

Well-designed quick-release clamp with 60 mm jaw length

The clamping jaws of the Leofoto LHC-60 are 6.0 cm long and provide a secure, large-area support for the quick-release plate. The quick-release clamp works with a classic screw clamp operated via a large, ergonomic knurled knob. When you turn the knob, the jaws open and close evenly, allowing you to fine-tune the fixation of your camera or lens foot. This is particularly pleasant when you are using heavy telephoto lenses or sensitive setups where a sudden snap-in would be undesirable.

Precise alignment thanks to bubble level and laser-engraved scale

On the top there is an integrated bubble level that allows you to align your system precisely. This is extremely valuable for architecture, landscape, or working with multiple exposure brackets. In addition, the clamp features a clearly legible center mark with laser engraving and scale. These markings help you position quick-release plates and rails exactly, which is especially useful for repeatable setups or finely tuned framing.

Stable mounting: 3/8" UNC, 1/4" UNC and M6 countersunk screw

When it comes to mounting, it becomes clear that the LHC-60 is not designed for just a single solution. You can screw the clamp on in the classic way using a 3/8" UNC photo thread or bolt it from above, for example with a 1/4" UNC countersunk screw or an M6 countersunk screw. On the underside you have a 1 x 3/8" UNC photo thread available. The 18 x 22 mm, 5 mm wide mounting groove acts as an anti-twist safeguard and prevents the clamp from unintentionally rotating on a compatible ball head neck. This anti-twist protection is particularly noticeable with longer focal lengths.

Groove for anti-rotation pins, secure hold on ball heads

The LHC-60 has a groove for anti-rotation pins, as used for example on ball heads from Really Right Stuff. This anti-rotation feature or stop ensures that the clamp fits positively and does not slowly loosen when you pan frequently or realign the camera. Your setup remains stable even if you often switch between portrait and landscape orientation or use the camera on a slider or rail.

Robust materials: 6061-T6 aluminum and steel

For the materials, Leofoto relies on 6061-T6 aluminum in combination with steel at the critical points. This ensures a good balance of strength and weight. At only 109 g, the quick-release clamp remains pleasantly light while still feeling very solid. The surface is black anodized, which not only looks good but also increases resistance to scratches and the elements. That’s definitely an argument for tough outdoor use.

Compact dimensions with high functionality

The LHC-60 is dimensioned so that it looks good on many ball heads without appearing overly bulky. The length is 6.0 cm, the width is about 6.2 cm, and including the knurled area you get roughly 9.6 cm. In practice this means: enough space to grip and operate it, yet still compact enough not to get in the way on smaller heads or travel tripods.

Integrated scales and center mark for repeatable setups

The laser-engraved scale with center mark is more than just a visual detail. If you frequently work with longer rails, shoot macro, or want to reproduce a specific camera position again and again, you can simply remember or note the scale values. This lets you restore your setup quickly and precisely the next time. The laser engraving is permanent and does not wear off as quickly as printed markings.

Converting existing ball heads to ARCA quick-release systems

An important point: the Leofoto LHC-60 is ideal for converting existing ball heads to an ARCA quick-release system. If your head has so far used a proprietary system, you can use this quick-release clamp to upgrade it to a modern, widely used standard. At the same time, the clamp can also be used as a spare part or for adapting support systems, for example if you want to bring several heads or special brackets to a uniform standard.

Ergonomic knurled knob for controlled clamping

The large knurled knob is designed so that you can grip it easily even with cold fingers or thin gloves. Thanks to the screw clamp, the clamping pressure can be adjusted very finely. You can first lightly secure the quick-release plate, calmly align the camera, and only then tighten it fully. This may seem unspectacular in everyday use, but it makes the difference between hectic fiddling and a relaxed workflow.

Included accessories for flexible mounting

The scope of delivery includes everything you need for a clean installation. Included are an M6 countersunk screw, a 1/4" to 3/8" reducer bushing, a hex key, a multi-tool and a universal quick-release plate. This allows you to adapt the clamp directly to many different ball heads and tripod solutions without having to search for suitable screws first. The universal quick-release plate also lets you get started right away, even if you haven’t previously owned any ARCA-compatible plates.

Practice-oriented details for everyday photography

In daily use it becomes clear that the LHC-60 doesn’t just look good on paper. The combination of bubble level, scale marking, groove for anti-rotation pins and the robust screw clamp ensures reliable, smooth operation. The 38 mm dovetail mount is designed so that compatible plates sit snugly without tilting. At the same time, operation remains intuitive, even if you need to quickly change cameras or swap to another quick-release plate.

Conclusion: a compact quick-release clamp that upgrades your system

If you want to convert your ball head to an ARCA quick-release system or simply need a solid, versatile quick-release clamp, the Leofoto LHC-60 is a very well-rounded solution. It combines a precise screw clamp with 60 mm jaw length, an integrated bubble level, laser-engraved scale markings and a well-thought-out anti-rotation design. The lightweight yet sturdy housing made of 6061-T6 aluminum and steel, the black anodized finish and the comprehensive accessory package make the clamp a reliable building block in your setup that you’ll probably come to appreciate sooner than you think.