Kirk TQR-2L Tripod Head Quick Disconnect System with Large Plate

I got this system because I was changing between 3 different heads. This seems to fit the bill for fast and easy switch outs. I haven't got to use it on a regular basis yet but I'm expecting good results.

I've used this attached directly to a 100mm half ball leveling base to reduce vibrations with very heavy medium format telephoto camera rigs.

I already purchased two of these systems, together with additional large and small plates. I use them, as intended, to quickly swap different heads, but also the base mount of my star tracker, on my tripod legs. Considering the simplicity of the system there is not a lot to say about functionality, it just works. The screw knob is large enough for a good grip that enables to tighten the clamp sufficiently and that way hold the gear safe and stable. Another positive aspect of this system: As the plates are Arca-Swiss style you theoretically can also mount a head with the plate attached also to another Arca-Swiss style clamp. Nevertheless there are at least two aspects that should get improved: The safety stops are a fix part of the plate, means die casted. While that is not a problem with the original clamp it can get a problem as soon as you try to use the plates with most other Arca-Swiss style clamps that do not have the necessary width / clearance / grooves for the stops. An optional solution, means safety stops that you can individually screw into place or not, would be the better solution in here, at least from my point of view. The other topic for improvement is the bubble level solution. Okay, bubble level solutions are barely really exact, but the one in this system is just obsolete. Either the used bubble levels are not exact at all or they are not correctly seated in the clamp. Placing both of my clamps side by side on a flat surface both bubble levels show different results and quite a bit off from where they should be. H.E.

Throw a dab of blue Loctite on the mounting screw and you'll have yourself a very secure QR platform to swap out heads. I use them on both my Gitzos, tripod and monopod. Very sturdy and well engineered platform that's typical of KES.