Strap suggestions for incoming Rolleiflex 2.8C

[flvU3Dp]

Hi All,

First post here so I am reaching out for some collective forum wisdom regarding the below.

I have an incoming 2.8C Xenotar and have been looking at strap options. I actually purchased the alligator connector straps in anticipation of a 2.8E/F purchase, but alas, here we are.

A 2.8C is available with the lens hood, caps, and filters all included for a good price so I am going for it. I have return/refund privilege and even if I decide to sell it for an E or F down the line, I won't lose any money. Needless to say, I am very excited.

Now, I've read a bunch of threads on here and elsewhere and realize that the native strap for the C/D models is expensive and hard to come by. I also saw some suggestions regarding the Op/tech neoprene straps--my understanding is that the weight of the camera is not supposed to be carried by the eyelet but rather the strap button.

So I am wondering if you have any ideas/suggestions for a strap that would wrap around the button--I'd hate to take a chance with this camera.

Thanks!

 

[vitaly66]

The 2.8c predates the alligator clip retention and is very easy to make a strap for. Get a length of leather latigo (as used for horse tack), about a meter long, about 1.5cm wide. At each end make a vertical slit about 1.5cm in length, into a circular hole punched out about 3mm in diameter. If necessary, you may need to skiv the ends of the straps down to a thickness that slips through the strap bracket. That's it. Now slip the ends of the straps through the strap bracket and "button" the end of the strap onto the retention post. A bit like buttoning a button on your shirt.

 

[Deleted member 65559]

Vitaly has given you some good info. There is also a reasonably priced strap on ebay with the proper attachments for the C.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/273867338358?hash=item3fc3c3f276:g:HsEAAOSwpO9c7lqb
Rolleiflexes aren't heavy cameras and 1/2" strap works nicely.
When my orginal strap disintegrated, I bought a $4 piece of leather from Tandy & rivetted on the original attachments (different than those for the C).....no skivving required.

 

[nickthetasmaniac]

So I am wondering if you have any ideas/suggestions for a strap that would wrap around the button--I'd hate to take a chance with this camera.

I went through a similar search recently for my 2.8D. In the end I went with a leather strap from Gordy's with the waxed string attachments. I run these through the guides and then loop around the 'stump'. It's very secure and allows the strap to fall away to the sides when using the WLF.

Untitled by Nick Clark, on Flickr

 

[BillBingham2]

A lot depends on how often you carry her (could be him or it). Are you with a purpose of taking pictures or other reasons you are out and about.

For me different straps for different purposes, but that's me.

B2

 

[Sanders McNew]

FWIW I put one-inch Domke Gripper straps on all my Rolleiflexes and Rolleicords. They are substantial enough to protect the camera, and light and flexible enough not to get in the way in use. There are much fancier options but if you’re actually shooting the camera, there are no better ones.

 

[flvU3Dp]

Thanks everyone for your responses and ideas.

The 2.8c predates the alligator clip retention and is very easy to make a strap for. Get a length of leather latigo (as used for horse tack), about a meter long, about 1.5cm wide. At each end make a vertical slit about 1.5cm in length, into a circular hole punched out about 3mm in diameter. If necessary, you may need to skiv the ends of the straps down to a thickness that slips through the strap bracket. That's it. Now slip the ends of the straps through the strap bracket and "button" the end of the strap onto the retention post. A bit like buttoning a button on your shirt.

Vitaly, this is a great suggestion although I'd need to find the right tools and materials. Do you know roughly how thick the leather would need to be to fit through the bracket?

A lot depends on how often you carry her (could be him or it). Are you with a purpose of taking pictures or other reasons you are out and about.

For me different straps for different purposes, but that's me.

B2

I'll definitely be working the camera (about 3-4 rolls a week for 2-3 months at a time working on various projects).

FWIW I put one-inch Domke Gripper straps on all my Rolleiflexes and Rolleicords. They are substantial enough to protect the camera, and light and flexible enough not to get in the way in use. There are much fancier options but if you’re actually shooting the camera, there are no better ones.

Do you run the ring around the bracket? Do you have a pic you can share?

 

[karlin]

I have a 2.8c and found a Domke that fits.
I'll try and post a pic later.

 

[aizan]

The 2.8C has the same strap lug holders as the MX-EVS.

I have and recommend this strap:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/273867338358?hash=item3fc3c3f276:g:HsEAAOSwpO9c7lqb

This variation has a shoulder pad:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/273088833823?hash=item3f955ce91f:g:DogAAOSwLWBbOvO2

 

[Sanders McNew]

Do you run the ring around the bracket? Do you have a pic you can share?

I use 5/8-inch split rings — key rings. I never liked the original straps and this struck me as one place where function should win out over appearance.

 

[Hari]

I don't like camera neckstraps.
Particularly Rolleis which I carry
in a small bag. Rolleis attrack
attention like someone else said,
it's like you have an exotic dog.