Wimberley P-5 universal camera plate

Wimberley P-5 universal camera plate for flexible photographers

If you don’t feel like buying a different plate every time you get a new camera, the Wimberley P-5 universal camera plate is pretty much exactly what you’re looking for. It’s designed as a universal 38 mm dovetail quick-release camera plate and therefore fits into many setups without you having to rebuild your entire tripod or head system. In short: mount it once, enjoy peace of mind for a long time.

Universally usable on many cameras and setups

The P-5 is deliberately designed to be universal. You can use it on a classic DSLR, on many mirrorless cameras, with or without battery grip, on a backup camera, on medium format cameras and, if needed, even as a lens plate. As a rule, you won’t need a new plate for a new camera, which is really convenient in everyday use, especially if you use several bodies in parallel or occasionally change your system.

Thanks to the profile length of 7.6 cm on the underside and the width of 3.8 cm, the plate can be positioned sensibly on camera bases of different sizes. The height of only 0.9 cm ensures that your camera doesn’t become unnecessarily bulky and doesn’t suddenly appear “bigger” in your backpack than it actually is.

Arca compatible, quick release without detours

The Wimberley P-5 is ARCA compatible and thus suitable for many common quick-release systems based on the 38 mm dovetail standard. The clamping profile fits, among others, into FlexShooter lever cross clamps, FlexShooter screw cross clamps, Wimberley clamps, Arca-style compatible 38 mm quick-release clamps (according to the manufacturer), Really Right Stuff screw clamps, Really Right Stuff lever clamps and Kirk clamps.

In practice this means: you can use the plate in a wide variety of setups without having to think about adapters or special solutions every time. Especially if you work with multiple heads or tripods, this compatibility is a real advantage because you simply hook in, clamp down and get started.

Made in USA, solid workmanship and well-thought-out design

The P-5 is manufactured in the USA and relies on a robust combination of aluminum and stainless steel. The aluminum is black anodized, which not only looks classy but also provides additional protection for the surface. Stainless steel parts ensure stability and durability at the stressed points.

At only about 41 g, the plate remains pleasantly light, so it does not unnecessarily weigh down your camera. Especially on longer tours, hikes or trips, every gram counts, and here the P-5 deliberately stays discreetly in the background without compromising on stability.

Everyday ergonomics: flat, rounded, unobtrusive

Thanks to its low thickness and rounded corners, the Wimberley P-5 feels comfortable in the hand. It hardly interferes with the camera body, whether you’re carrying it or shooting handheld. If you use the camera without a tripod, the plate stays in the background and doesn’t snag anywhere or dig uncomfortably into your palms.

Especially during longer shoots, reportages or weddings, where the camera constantly switches between tripod, strap and handheld use, it’s helpful if the plate doesn’t constantly stand out or get in the way. The P-5 is more like the quiet, reliable companion that just works.

Rubberized support surface as anti-twist protection

On the top side, the P-5 has a thin, grippy rubber coating. This rubberized support surface significantly increases adhesion to the underside of the camera, but remains so thin and firm that the direct, stable contact of a metal-to-camera connection is essentially preserved. Under this rubber surface, the plate is constructed so that the frictional forces are particularly high in the outer area.

This provides very good protection against twisting, even when you’re working with heavier lenses or frequently readjusting the camera. It’s important to note, however: the anti-twist protection on this plate is created solely by the clamping pressure. Universal camera plates with an additional anti-twist stop offer even better protection against rotation, but for many applications the P-5 already provides very solid hold.

Safety stop screws for more security in the quick-release system

At both ends of the Wimberley P-5 there are 2 safety stop screws. These safety stop screws prevent the plate from accidentally sliding out of the quick-release clamp if the clamp becomes loose or is not fully opened.

Especially during outdoor shoots, in everyday studio work or when traveling, when things can get a bit hectic, this additional safety mechanism is very helpful. The camera can still move a little within the clamp, but will not simply slide out completely as long as the safety stops engage. This gives you an extra level of confidence in your setup.

Pleasant handling in daily use

The P-5 is designed to integrate into your workflow without constantly demanding attention. It sits flat under the camera, the rounded edges prevent sharp transitions, and the rubberized support surface ensures a calm, firm fit.

Whether you’re working in the studio, traveling, or at an event quickly switching between portrait and landscape orientation, the plate reliably stays in place. At the same time, you can easily insert it into the appropriate quick-release clamp, tighten and release it again without fiddling around.

Technical data of the Wimberley P-5 universal camera plate at a glance

For those who like to know the details, here are the most important key data in compact form:

• Type: universal 38 mm dovetail quick-release camera plate
• Universal: yes, suitable for many cameras with and without battery grip, backup cameras, medium format cameras and partly as a lens plate
• Clamping profile: suitable for FlexShooter lever cross clamp, FlexShooter screw cross clamp, Wimberley clamps, Arca-style compatible 38 mm quick-release clamps (according to the manufacturer), Really Right Stuff screw clamps, Really Right Stuff lever clamps, Kirk clamps
• Width: approx. 3.8 cm
• Length / profile length underside: approx. 7.6 cm
• Height: approx. 0.9 cm
• Weight: approx. 41 g
• Material: aluminum and stainless steel
• Surface: black anodized
• Anti-twist protection: rubberized support surface with increased friction on the outer area
• Safety mechanism: 2 safety stop screws at the ends of the plate

Conclusion: a small plate with a wide range of applications

All in all, the Wimberley P-5 universal camera plate is a compact, well-thought-out solution for anyone who wants to use a reliable, ARCA compatible quick-release system without having to buy a dedicated special plate for every single camera. It combines a universal design with grippy anti-twist protection via the rubberized support surface and a safety mechanism via the safety stop screws, which prevents accidental slipping out of the quick-release clamp.

If you value flexibility, solid workmanship and a plate that simply works in everyday use without any fuss, then the Wimberley P-5 is a very good fit for a modern, versatile photo setup.