Photo Accessory Reviews

The L-bracket has moved from the realm of the exotic into the everyday world of real utility where it belongs, thanks in large part to the success of the QR11 L-bracket from 3 Legged Thing. After four years of unbridled success, the 3LT QR11 L-bracket has been upgraded to version 2.0, adding manifold improvements suggested by users.

Two New Models
There are two new QR11 2.0 models, and both are available in copper (orange) or metallic slate (gray).

The QR11-L 2.0 L-bracket is for standard mirrorless and DSLR cameras. It also works great with many high-end compacts.

Model QR11-FB 2.0 is designed for cameras with battery grips (or “full-bodied” cameras, hence the FB designation). The vertical arm section is longer compared to the QR-11 L model. The additional length makes it easy to attach a camera strap to the L-bracket—and there is a strap loop opening at the top for that purpose. Of course, you could use the FB with smaller cameras, too, but the vertical arm sticks up above the top of a typical mirrorless, and might be cumbersome.

What’s New in Version 2.0
3LT has given version 2.0 L-brackets a new shape that reduces the weight compared to the original QR11 without diminishing the strength or stability. Additionally, the base now has cut-outs to give users better access to open articulated and tilting screens.  As before, the location of the camera attachment screw is adjustable for optimal fitting and battery door access.

The 3LT QR11 2.0’s vertical section now includes two ¼”-20 accessory attachment points at the base. The vertical aspect can also be reversed to move the attachment points and give users better access to side ports, depending on the configuration of the camera used. QR11 2.0's platform also features a combination 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 thread that can be used to attach accessories when deployed in portrait orientation.

The 3M textured rubber pads embedded in the horizontal platform provide a secure grip to the camera base and prevent rotation around the attachment screw and slipping.

How to Use an L-Bracket
Consisting of a horizontal component (the platform) connected at a 90° angle to one end of a vertical section (the arm), a universal camera bracket takes the shape of the letter L. The bottom edges of the platform and the outside edges of the arm are dovetailed to precisely fit the 38mm angled opening on an Arca-Swiss compatible tripod head or ball head. Slide either the platform or the arm into the Arca-Swiss channel and tighten the tripod head. No need to connect the small plate that came with the tripod – remove it and put it in a safe place.

The advantages of attaching a camera to a tripod head via an L-bracket are many. The connection is a little bit more secure (probably) and it’s definitely much faster to switch from Landscape to Portrait orientation without adjusting the tripod head at all. The length of the platform (or arm) provides more opportunity for adjustment, too—just slide the L-bracket through the channel in the tripod head and lock it down where desired.

The QR11 2.0 L-brackets from 3LT allow you to attach accessories like an LED light or small monitor to the bottom of the platform or to the vertically-extended arm, thereby providing unified orientation and control of both the camera and the auxiliary attachment.

You know that little square metal plate that came with the tripod head? It’s easy to lose, but what’s worse, when it’s attached to the bottom of a camera, the camera has a hard time sitting upright on a flat surface. With a universal L-bracket attached, a camera sits up straight. Plus, it’s easier to hold when it’s not on a tripod.

History of QR11
UK-based 3 Legged Thing has been dedicated to making great tripods since 2010. They entered the L-bracket market in 2017 with the QR11, and since then have sold 100,000 L-brackets worldwide. That’s enough L-brackets for every citizen, including the babies, of Erie, Pennsylvania to own a QR11 and still leave enough for the folks in nearby Albion. You can read about the Chicken Shed and other aspects of this unique organization on their website.

Price & Availability
Packaged with a handy multi-tool, attachment screw and fabric drawstring bag, 3LT products are covered by a 5 year limited warranty against manufacturing defects. You can order 3 Legged Thing QR11 2.0 Arca Swiss-Compatible universal L-brackets directly from 3LT. Both models are available in Copper or Metallic Slate Grey. The QR11-L costs $59.99 and the QR11-FB runs $69.99.

Other Dedicated L-Brackets from 3LT
Nikon Z5, Z6, Z7, Z6 II and Z7 II owners can buy Zelda, while Zayla is made especially for Nikon Z50 shooters. Roxie is custom made for Canon EOS R5, R5C and R6 cameras. And the Gracy is dedicated to Fujifilm GFX 100S and 50S II models.

—Jon Sienkiewicz

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