TSUBAME Tripod KIRK Models / TSUBAME 3D Head KIRK Model
To enable TSUBAME tripods and heads to operate in the globally standard Arca-style, we also offer models equipped with quick-release clamps specially ordered from KIRK Enterprise Solutions (KES). The top plate is manufactured without a cork sheet, allowing for embedded anti-rotation pins. Since this is an officially recognized collaboration model by both manufacturers, there are no worries about warranty or maintenance.
The included clamp is an original model produced by KES exclusively for TSUBAME. The back of the clamp features three holes that fit the anti-rotation pins on the tripod head top plate. It locks in place at 90° rotations to the front and left and right, and cannot be set to any other angle, ensuring the clamp will not accidentally loosen.
In addition, the mounting screw holes are pre-drilled with UNC1/4-20 threads (usually UNC3/8-16), eliminating the need for additional parts such as adapters. TSUBAME's unique large locking wheels ensure extremely secure mounting and rotation without the need for tools.
TSUBAME Tripod with 3D Head KIRK Models
| Model Number | Model Name | Collapsed length | Lowest leg height | Maximum leg height | EV increase | Total Maximum Height | Weight | Load capacity (dynamic load) |
| HT-1030K | 3 Sec. Tripod w/3D head KIRK Model | 809mm | 761mm | 1604mm | 375mm | 1979mm | 3700g | 10kg |
| HT-1040K | 4 Sec. Tripod w/3D head KIRK Model | 854mm | 803mm | 2129mm | 375mm | 2504mm | 4140g | 10kg |
| HT-1050K | 5 Sec. Tripod w/3D head KIRK Model | 897mm | 842mm | 2692mm | 375mm | 3067mm | 4510g | 10kg |
| HT-1031K | Semi-Short 3 Sec. Tripod w/3D head KIRK Model | 682mm | 644mm | 1251mm | 265mm | 1516mm | 3340g | 10kg |
| HT-1041K | Semi-Short 4 Sec. Tripod w/3D head KIRK Model | 728mm | 686mm | 1660mm | 265mm | 1925mm | 3700g | 10kg |
| HT-1042K | Short 4 Sec. Tripod w/3D head KIRK Model | 603mm | 566mm | 1197mm | 210mm | 1407mm | 3340g | 10kg |
Common pipe diameter: 1st stage 31.8mm, 2nd stage 28.6mm, 3rd stage 25.4mm, 4th stage 22.2mm, 5th stage 19.0mm
Come with straps and leg tie belts. Come with 1 short and 1 long tilt level lock knob.
TSUBAME 3D Head KIRK Model
| Height | Weight | Horizontal axis | Vertical axis | Top plate | Base Diameter | Camera mounting | Tripod mounting screw |
| 145mm | 1240g | Left 90°/Right 30° | Up 60°/Down 90° | 60mm×85ｍｍ | 60mm | Arca-Style | UNC3/8-16 |
Come with 2 short tilt level lock knob.
Patented QTT (Quick Turn Technology) knob
The clamp, machined from a solid block of aluminum alloy, firmly grips the plate like a vise when the knob is tightened, eliminating any shifting or rattle. A common feature of Arca-Style clamps is that the plate can be slid by simply loosening the opening/closing knob slightly. However, KES's patented special screw drives the knob, allowing you to secure your equipment by simply placing it on the clamp from above and rotating it 180 degrees. A further 180 degrees in the opposite direction opens the clamp sufficiently, allowing you to remove your equipment vertically. While conventional knobs that allow you to attach or remove equipment with a single turn are already considered quick enough, the QTT knob eliminates the need to re-gripping the knob; simply turning your wrist allows you to change equipment or switch to a vertical composition.
The combination of precision-machined metals eliminates the need for cork or rubber. Even the slightest amount of flexibility in the material can result in subtle fluctuations that can affect the final shot. By directly securing a metal camera mount or lens mount with this clamp, everything from the tripod legs to the photographic equipment is firmly connected using only metal parts.
The knob type also provides an intuitive feel for locking/unlocking, and the safety screw on the plate activates when sliding, reducing the chance of accidental detachment. KIRK is absolutely confident in its knob type, which is firmly secured by tightening a screw, and does not manufacture any lever-type clamps that simply use a spring to hold the equipment in place (which naturally involves an elastic material in securing the equipment).
Genuine Authenticity
The 6061-T6 aluminum alloy used is extremely lightweight, yet boasts strength comparable to duralumin and excellent corrosion resistance. It's a high-grade metal often used in applications requiring both light weight and strength, from aircraft parts and automotive components like aluminum wheels to steel towers and cranes. Each component is precisely machined from an ingot of this metal using CNC machining. The internal mechanism is made of rust-resistant stainless steel, and screws and springs are completely concealed, minimizing the intrusion of dust and debris and reducing the likelihood of malfunction.
The surface is also hard-anodized rather than painted, making it scratch-resistant and preventing deformation even with repeated attachment and detachment.
These three critical elements of the Arca-Style quick release system—material, cutting precision, and surface treatment—are crucial, and any flaws will inevitably lead to problems with stability, durability, and safety. While it's difficult to judge from a new appearance, KES's superior quick release clamps boast the world's highest performance, and are used in the TSUBAME collaboration model.
Easy to use
KES clamps come with a built-in hex wrench for attaching and detaching camera and lens mounts. For those who frequently attach and detach mounts, we recommend carrying a reliable hex wrench made by a tool manufacturer. However, accidents can occur on set, such as unexpected loosening and needing to be retightened or removed. KES, with its deep knowledge of the field as professional photographers, always includes a spare hex wrench, eliminating the need to search through your camera bag. Once you realize this intention, it's hard to say that it's unrelated to the clamp's performance.
This quick-release clamp is designed to hold all Arca-style plates, but it's also true that there are manufacturers with large manufacturing tolerances or different product standards. As far as we can verify quality, we've confirmed that plates from brands other than KES, including Wimberley and Really Right Stuff, can be securely fastened.
*The dimensions and weight in the specifications table are calculated values using CAD and are roughly consistent with the actual measurements, but there may be slight individual differences.
*TSUBAME tripods are manufactured with the assumption that they will be used by professional photographers for 10 or 20 years at that frequency. For that reason, some parts are made with materials that prioritize durability, and when you first start using them, you may notice a stiffness in movement, or the legs may not lock in place properly, causing a slippery feeling. These issues will likely go away as the parts become more familiar with each other, so we hope you will enjoy using them for a long time.
It's only when each part has become familiar that it becomes a true TSUBAME. The words "for Professional" are not just for show.