3 tripod adapters for the NL Pure (1 Viewer)

[pm42]

Hi,
I wanted a tripod adapter for my NL Pure 8x42. I used the Manfrotto Clamp 035BN for binoculars with my Leica & Zeiss 8x32 but even when applying a strong force, the NL Pure does not really stay in place.


Because of the forum, I first ordered the one from https://www.deadonindustries.com
I was disappointed: it is not easy to fix, the screw is easy to loose, it tends to slip... I tried to tune it, longer screw, 3D printed soft padding... I remained unconvinced.

So I ordered the RRS one: https://soar.reallyrightstuff.com/Cinch-LR-BA
It is better: easy to fix and remove, nothing to lose, can be used with multiple binoculars, comes with an Arca-swiss style plate, very small and lightweight.
Find the right length for the strap is hit & miss but after a while, one can get a secure attachment. Not 100% stable but more than good enough for the occasional use. I'll keep it.

But I also wanted a solution for astronomy, especially when I travel with my alt-az mount but no extra tripod. So I ordered the Swarosky Universal adapter. It does not fit the NL perfectly but it is ok and I can balance it on my Unistar.

I did not tried the Outdoorsman because I'm not sure I want to have a stud on the NL and because one must stop buying stuff sometimes (not really sure when though) but it is probably a better solution than the ones I have.

I've uploaded some pictures.

 

[hyberboreus]

I'm also using the Swarovski UTA with NL Pure 8x42. It works OK, even though it is not so tight as I would like it to be. I have also the Outdoorsman stud, but haven't installed it yet.

 

[NDhunter]

There is another inexpensive one that is universal for most all roof prism binoculars, and that is the Bogpod binocular mount.

It is a rubber strap style, and easily the most inexpensive one that is available. Very stable and better than most stud types.

Around $40.00 -$50.

Jerry

 

[Whiterain]

Little late on here, but the hunting crowd seems to dig the Outdoorsmans bino stud. I bought one, like it enough, but I have nothing to compare to besides the old Vortex bracket. Any reason the ring or strap style mounts are more popular over here?
Hope external links are ok... Manufacturers page for quick reference: https://outdoorsmans.com/collections/studs-adapters

If it's a concern, there's a third party company that does a slick ARCA adapter since those adapters come setup for their in-house dovetail.

 

[tenex]

I did not tried the Outdoorsman because I'm not sure I want to have a stud on the NL and because one must stop buying stuff sometimes (not really sure when though) but it is probably a better solution than the ones I have.

Besides being ugly, a stud would badly interfere with how I like to carry and hold bins. A strap holder (I have the Bogpod Jerry mentioned) is also inherently more stable. The only advantage I see to the stud-clamp approach is ease of adjusting IPD for multiple observers.

 

[GrampaTom]

Based on PM42 pics in #1 looks like the Swaro UTA gets by and if one owns ELs then you've got something that works for both... Doesn't however, seem optimum. As the rubber strap is a separate part, maybe Swarovski is working on a version for the NL. Could see a version of the UTA for NL, and/or could sell NL strap as a retro part for older UTAs.

 

[John A Roberts]

Swarovski’s history with tripod adapters is perplexing. Considering their attention to design detail in most other areas, their overall failure in this area is striking

At one point they introduced what’s arguably the best solution of all, what’s now known as the TA-SLC (Tripod Adapter for the SLC)
It works on all x42 and larger models, in both the original and current SLC series
(for details of it in use, see Roger Vine’s review of the 15x56 SLC neu at: http://www.scopeviews.co.uk/Swaro15x56SLC.htm )

However, since that high point things have been 'markedly lacking'. In terms of initial design considerations, the ability to mount a binocular on a tripod, just doesn't seem to be on the company radar

In contrast to the TA-SLC, consider the lack of a provision for an integral tripod adapter on: both the original EL and updated EL SV; both the original EL Range and the updated EL Range TA, and; now the NL.

At one stage there was the clever but complex Adapter EL for the EL x42. See an image from a London Camera Exchange (http://www.lcegroup.co.uk) second hand listing. However, it's clearly a response to having not made provision for an integral adapter

And since then Swarovski seems to have just given up, offering the so-called UTA (Universal Tripod Adaptor) - an expensive version of a generic platform and rubber band combination! While it's workable with the NL x42, it is not ideal. And while one would hope for something much better for the NL x50 . . . ?

Finally, in relation to using third party stud adapters on the NL x42:

. . . In the first review attached to the page on the Outdoorsmans site it states that:
‘The thread is fine and there are only three threads of engagement’

So whatever function the thread on the NL serves, it would seem clear that it’s not intended to be used as part of a tripod mount
And it’s not hard to imagine how suspending a US $3K binocular by only 3 turns of a fine thread is likely at some point to lead to grief
- And then how Swarovski would not consider any resulting damage as being covered by its warranty!
. . .

John


p.s. For the Porro prism Habichts, I find that the classic Nikon 'Tripod Adaptor - SE Series' (part #7806) works well

 

[Glacierblue]

Swarovski’s history with tripod adapters is perplexing. Considering their attention to design detail in most other areas, their overall failure in this area is striking

At one point they introduced what’s arguably the best solution of all, what’s now known as the TA-SLC (Tripod Adapter for the SLC)
It works on all x42 and larger models, in both the original and current SLC series
(for details of it in use, see Roger Vine’s review of the 15x56 SLC neu at: Swarovski 15x56 SLC Neu Review )

However, since that high point things have been 'markedly lacking'. In terms of initial design considerations, the ability to mount a binocular on a tripod, just doesn't seem to be on the company radar

In contrast to the TA-SLC, consider the lack of a provision for an integral tripod adapter on: both the original EL and updated EL SV; both the original EL Range and the updated EL Range TA, and; now the NL.

At one stage there was the clever but complex Adapter EL for the EL x42. See an image from a London Camera Exchange (London Camera Exchange) second hand listing. However, it's clearly a response to having not made provision for an integral adapter

And since then Swarovski seems to have just given up, offering the so-called UTA (Universal Tripod Adaptor) - an expensive version of a generic platform and rubber band combination! While it's workable with the NL x42, it is not ideal. And while one would hope for something much better for the NL x50 . . . ?

Finally, in relation to using third party stud adapters on the NL x42:



John


p.s. For the Porro prism Habichts, I find that the classic Nikon 'Tripod Adaptor - SE Series' (part #7806) works well

Spring has returned and the birding has been fantastic…

With heavy anticipation - just received the Swarovski UTA adapter to use with my Swarovski 15x SLC. Was I ever disappointed. Although I find the adapter of quality construction – there is an incredible design flaw in the strap. Swarovski’s own 15x won’t fit on the UTA “U as in Universal”. It baffles me why Swarovski’s UTA design would not allow for the 15x to fit. Was ready to return them, but have since decided to keep and rig up a separate strap to hold them, hoping Swarovski will wake up and redesign the strap to allow the 15x’s to fit, and offer the redesigned strap separately from the adapter.

Additionally, I recently purchased Swarovski’s 10x25 compacts to complement my Leica 8x20 Ultravids. The 10X25 is a fantastic piece of glass, but once again was more than disappointed to find Swarovski doesn’t provide objective lens covers for them. When I inquired, Swarovski informed me the covers were considered an unnecessary accessory. What?

Well there goes a Ruby Crowned Kinglet – I’m grabbing the glass and headed out…

 

[tenex]

Swarovski’s own 15x won’t fit on the UTA “U as in Universal”.

Return that and get the similar Bogpod adapter from BOG Gear, about $40. As reported before here, it works very well.

 

[pm42]

I just got my NL Pure 8x32. It works with the Swarosky Universal adapter but you have to position the binoculars precisely or remove the objective covers.

 

[pm42]

I tried the Berlebach adapter: it works better. The binoculars are a little loose, especially the 8x32 but this is no deal breaker for normal use but they may slip (not fall, just slip) when using them for astronomy. I'll cut another hole.

 

[sfphoto]

Nice photos, pm42. The Berlebach looks stable but a bit oversized for the 8x32.
BTW, where did you get that silver strap loop connector?

 

[pm42]

Nice photos, pm42. The Berlebach looks stable but a bit oversized for the 8x32.
BTW, where did you get that silver strap loop connector?

Many of the support I found are a bit oversized for the 8x32 so the Berlebach is no exception but I like the idea of something I can use with a 42mm, 50mm or more in the future.

The silver strap loop connector comes from here: Swarovski harness adapters
And go with this: Basic Ultra-light Bino Harness

My neck says thanks to the member of this forum who helped me discover this accessory

 

[bamacpl]

Hi,
I wanted a tripod adapter for my NL Pure 8x42. I used the Manfrotto Clamp 035BN for binoculars with my Leica & Zeiss 8x32 but even when applying a strong force, the NL Pure does not really stay in place.


Because of the forum, I first ordered the one from Dead On Industries
I was disappointed: it is not easy to fix, the screw is easy to loose, it tends to slip... I tried to tune it, longer screw, 3D printed soft padding... I remained unconvinced.

So I ordered the RRS one: Cinch-LR Elite
It is better: easy to fix and remove, nothing to lose, can be used with multiple binoculars, comes with an Arca-swiss style plate, very small and lightweight.
Find the right length for the strap is hit & miss but after a while, one can get a secure attachment. Not 100% stable but more than good enough for the occasional use. I'll keep it.

But I also wanted a solution for astronomy, especially when I travel with my alt-az mount but no extra tripod. So I ordered the Swarosky Universal adapter. It does not fit the NL perfectly but it is ok and I can balance it on my Unistar.

I did not tried the Outdoorsman because I'm not sure I want to have a stud on the NL and because one must stop buying stuff sometimes (not really sure when though) but it is probably a better solution than the ones I have.

I've uploaded some pictures.

I just made my own, threaded style