Finder on the hotshoe

[shadowfox]

Hi folks,

I recently get a Jupiter 12 and its finder in my hands. I'd like to use them on my Zorki 1.

The lens went right in after I nudge the rangefinder cam inwards to let the hefty rear element of the Jupiter 12 inside.

But, I can't get the darn viewfinder mounted on the hotshoe (flash shoe?) whatever, you guys know what I mean.

How did you guys do it, do I have to pry the hotshoe open a bit, it seems to be a tad smallish for the finder's feet.

Help, tips, advice are appreciated!

 

[Joao]

But, I can't get the darn viewfinder mounted on the hotshoe (flash shoe?) whatever, you guys know what I mean.

No problem with my Zorki-1, either with the Helios viewfinder or with the Yashica viewfinder. Both fit nicely in the flash-shoe. It may be the case that your Zorki's flash-shoe needs a small adjusting...
Regards
Joao

 

[shadowfox]

Thanks Joao, I'm just curious if this is a common problem.

Before I break out the pliers and rubber mallet 😀

 

[wolves3012]

Yes, it's a common problem. I've had to adjust several of my FSUs in this way. On the Zorki 1 you might be best to remove the shoe, you might dent the top cover if you just force things.

 

[shadowfox]

Got it fixed.
Thanks wolves for the tip to remove the hotshoe.
I was ready to use the crowbar on the Zorki 😀

That hotshoe is made from a quite stubborn metal, and the infamous FSU factory workmanship really shows 😀

But, now I can use the Jupiter-12, load on!

 

[dll927]

At least with the multi-finders, you have to watch whether it's the model for the Zorki or the Kiev. The Zorki version has most of its housing to the left, to avoid getting in the way of the shutter speed dial. The Kiev version favors the right side. This may not be a problem with single focal length finders.

Accessory shoes were always supposed to be a standard fitting. But as I always say, FSU cameras, quality-control-wise, can vary according to how much vodka the comrades consumed the night before.