Rolleiflex strap solutions

d.dulin

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Hello all, I love my Rolleiflex automat K4A in use but find it largely annoying to carry around due to its strange size but also because I have not been able to find a strap that didn’t add to its combersom nature/ fit uncomfortably. What is everyone else using to help offset the strange weight of their TLR? Pictures price and straps names appreciated!
 
K4A.
I’m aware that there are straps, just wondering what people use and think are comfortable/good looking as my current strap is neither.
 
I have two clips for my 2.8F and then use a Peak Design Slide Lite with the anchors attached to the clips.
 
I like the Op/Tech pro loop strap system. It has a thinner loop to go through the strap lugs on the camera. These loop connectors drop away nicely from the viewfinder when you lift the camera- almost like the original Rollei clips, I found a flat nylon strap connector tended to get in the way of the hood.

You can unclip the large padded center section of the strap and clip the two short connectors together to make a wrist strap, or get the strap out of the way when on a tripod.
https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/118283-REG/OP_TECH_USA_1501372_Pro_Loop_Strap_Black.html

I check the loop connectors every few months. Seems they go about 3-5 years before they show some fraying. I have never had one fail but why take a chance? Especially when you can buy new short connector sections for $8 or so.

I don't like the neoprene center section myself, but that's a personal matter. I cut it away and use the connectors to sew in a 3/4 inch black webbing with adjuster as center section. The Rolleiflex isn't very heavy so the 3/4" webbing gives me enough comfort while not being bulky or sweaty on a hot day.
 
I have that particular model and the space between the lugs and the body through which the alligator clips pass is very narrow. A regular nylon strap, for example, is too thick. Same for typical leather straps. Although I don’t have one, I think the string-end loops of Gordy type straps would work well as they would slip through the narrow space and loop securely on the lug post. I have an original alligator clip strap but don’t trust the connection between the clip and old leather.

Steve
 
Dan:
That seems like a good solution but I would also want to get rid of the foam portion, thanks for the idea I might try it.
 
I have that particular model and the space between the lugs and the body through which the alligator clips pass is very narrow. A regular nylon strap, for example, is too thick. Same for typical leather straps. Although I don’t have one, I think the string-end loops of Gordy type straps would work well as they would slip through the narrow space and loop securely on the lug post. I have an original alligator clip strap but don’t trust the connection between the clip and old leather.

Steve

There has got to be a way to drill out the two per side rivets of the scissor clips and install a new leather belt strap, maybe use small bolts or re-rivet the new strap .
 
This is a very good strap, I bought one for use on my 2.8E. They also sell it in leather, but I trust the nylon more.

I wish I had seen that ad 10 years ago, old not so trust-able Rollei TLR straps with the scissor clips were selling for 60 dollars to 80 dollars in Toronto camera shops, if you could find them.
 
Dan:
That seems like a good solution but I would also want to get rid of the foam portion, thanks for the idea I might try it.


It's simple to cut the foam away from the hardware. 3/4 inch nylon webbing is sold at outdoor stores; a sleeping bag strap is usually this size. And the outdoor store will have the plastic part for making the length adjustable0 the squared-off "O" with a third piece down the middle.


The Op/Tech system is just that, a system. I can move the straps from camera to camera, buy extra connector sections for low price, use it on my micro 4/3 system cameras, etc.
 
Hello all, I love my Rolleiflex automat K4A in use but find it largely annoying to carry around due to its strange size but also because I have not been able to find a strap that didn’t add to its combersom nature/ fit uncomfortably. What is everyone else using to help offset the strange weight of their TLR? Pictures price and straps names appreciated!


Mine is a K4B, I'm using a somewhat cheap strap which is branded "Nikon" but isn't an officlal Nikon one. I had to force it through the "eyelets" (the crocodile strap does not fit my 'Flex) but it works fine.



It works for me, as it does not get in the way (it's 100% made of textile and therefore very flexible).
 
Domke Gripper. It will fit in the bar that the alligator clips use without any rings, just feed it through and rebuckle. I don’t mind the 1”, but there is a wider one as well.
 
I am wondering this same thing, though I don't mind carrying the camera without a strap, it's just when I need to use my spot meter, it's awkward to hold the camera and meter at the same time. I also have the EVS MXII which I think is the K4A...I think... great camera. A pleasure to use.
 
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