Really Right Stuff BSL3-B: Camera plate for Leica SL3

Really Right Stuff BSL3-B: Camera plate for Leica SL3

If you want to have serious control over your Leica SL3 – quite literally – then the Really Right Stuff BSL3-B camera plate is like the solid foundation under your camera. Compact, precisely machined and clearly well thought out: 13.7 cm wide, 6.8 cm deep, 1.2 cm high and pleasantly light at just 100 g, without feeling delicate or wobbly.

The BSL3-B is not universal, but deliberately not universal in design; it is specifically tailored to the Leica SL3. As a result, the plate hugs the camera body closely, including a surrounding grip area that follows the contours of the camera and ensures very stable, solid handling in the hand. Nothing rattles, nothing shifts, nothing feels improvised.

Made specifically for this camera: a perfect fit for the Leica SL3

This camera plate was developed specifically for this camera, i.e. exactly for the Leica SL3. No compromise design, no “it’ll do somehow”, but a custom-made base that follows the shape of the body and makes optimal use of the contact surface.

Despite the close fit to the Leica SL3, operability is maintained: access to the camera battery is completely unobstructed, so you can change the battery without removing the plate.

Made in the USA: precision from 6061-T6 aluminum

The Really Right Stuff BSL3-B is made in the USA from CNC-milled 6061-T6 aluminum. In the professional field, this material is something like the gold standard when it comes to the ratio of stability, weight and durability. Every edge, every curve, every cutout is cleanly machined; nothing looks retrofitted or “bolted on”.

The surface is Type II black anodized, which not only provides a discreet, unobtrusive appearance, but also protects the plate against scratches and the elements. Especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors, perhaps in the rain or dust, this finish pays off in the long run. The anodized layer feels smooth but not slippery and is a very good visual match for the Leica SL3.

Practical in everyday use: a 5/32" hex key is integrated directly into the plate and can be stored there. So you always have the right tool with you if you want to loosen the plate, tighten it, or adjust the configuration. No searching through your backpack, no “Where’s that hex key again?”.

Arca-style compatible: secure fit in 38 mm quick-release clamps

The BSL3-B is fully Arca-style compatible and equipped with an integrated dovetail profile. The clamping profile fits Arca-style compatible (according to the manufacturer) 38 mm quick-release clamps and is therefore ideal for modern tripod heads, sliders or gimbal platforms that are based on this standard. So if you are already using an ARCA compatible system, the BSL3-B integrates seamlessly.

The slot length with a maximum distance of 23 mm between the screws allows you to finely adjust the camera position in the quick-release clamp. This lets you optimize the balance on the tripod head, for example with heavy zoom lenses or when using video accessories. The Really Right Stuff R-Lock safety mechanism additionally ensures that the plate is securely locked in compatible clamps and cannot slide out unintentionally, even if the clamp is not fully opened or closed.

For users who work a lot with panoramic heads or rail systems, the laser-engraved center markings on the plate are a small but crucial detail. They help you align the camera precisely and create repeatable setups without having to “eyeball” the alignment every time.

With QD strap anchor mount: quickly from tripod to strap

A steel QD socket is integrated into the BSL3-B, i.e. a QD strap mount: yes, one. This mount allows you to use a suitable strap with QD strap anchors and convert the camera from a tripod configuration to a carry solution in seconds. To use this mount, you need a strap with suitable QD strap anchors, which you can find via this note: QD strap anchors required.

The QD socket is made of robust steel and is integrated into the aluminum plate so that it remains stable even with frequent attaching and detaching. Combined with the QD compatibility of the plate, this results in a very flexible setup: you can use the Leica SL3 on a tripod, on a strap or on a hand sling without constantly loosening screws or changing adapters.

Additionally, a mount for a hand strap is integrated, which also makes the plate suitable for photographers who prefer to work with a side hand strap rather than a classic neck strap. Especially during longer assignments or handheld video shooting, this can significantly increase comfort.

Thoughtful details for precise work and panoramic photography

A small but very useful detail is the laser-engraved sensor center mark. This marking shows you the exact position of the sensor plane and is almost indispensable for precise alignment, especially in panoramic photography. When you set up panoramas, this marking helps you define rotation axes cleanly and minimize parallax errors.

We would say: the BSL3-B is not a spectacular “bling” component, but rather the quiet, reliable part of your setup that simply works. It is QD compatible, ARCA compatible, modularly expandable and tailored to the Leica SL3 without overloading you with unnecessary features. That is precisely what makes it so attractive for many users.