Simmod Lens has launched a brand new accent: a clamp-on NATO ring designed for cine lenses with an outer diameter of 80–85mm. It offers a safe technique to mount motors, LiDAR programs, and different light-weight equipment through commonplace NATO rails. This method might be particularly helpful for mirrorless setups, handheld rigs, or compact builds just like the Sony VENICE 2 RIALTO, the place conventional cages and rod programs might be cumbersome or impractical. Let’s have a look.
Simmod Lens, based mostly in Canada, is thought for his or her high-quality lens modification kits. They’ve produced some fascinating ones, like their LPL mounts for varied cameras in addition to an LPL Essence Rear Magnetic Filter System. The brand new NATO ring matches into this line of sensible instruments by providing a easy technique to increase performance with out overbuilding the rig. Developed by Simmod founder Ron Sim CSC in collaboration with different working cinematographers, the ring displays a user-driven design method and incorporates a patented development with extra patents pending.
Additionally of curiosity, Simmod Lens has taken their first step into manufacturing their very own lens collection.
The Simmod Lens NATO ring in use. Picture credit score: Simmod Lens
Direct-to-lens help for motors, LiDAR, and extra
Mounting equipment on to the lens retains every little thing aligned and secure with out the necessity to depend on rod programs that always introduce wobble. On longer lenses, this will make a noticeable distinction. When wanted, on bigger lenses, you too can mount a number of motors without delay for full management over focus, iris, and zoom.
With this in thoughts, the Simmod NATO ring provides a number of mounting factors, with commonplace NATO rails, grooves, and threaded holes for attaching motors, LiDAR items, small screens, smartphones, or wi-fi gear. A groove and threaded gap sample additionally helps place a DJI LiDAR unit securely and prevents it from rotating throughout use. The NATO receiver is constructed instantly into the ring, so no extra rail is required. It additionally contains 1/4″-20 and three/8″-16 sockets for broader compatibility.
Simmod NATO Ring with equipment. Picture credit score: Simmod Lens
Compact builds and cage-free setups
The NATO ring can be utilized and not using a conventional cage or rod system, which helps to cut back the general footprint of the rig, which may very well be particularly helpful when working handheld or on a gimbal. Cameras just like the Sony VENICE 2 RIALTO Mini ought to profit from this setup. With equipment mounted on to the lens quite than the digital camera physique, there’s much less gear in the best way, and swapping lenses or reconfiguring the setup is quicker and extra simple.
When used with mirrorless set-ups, the ring will simplify utilizing lenses just like the Blazar Remus anamorphic, for instance, because the rig has a a lot smaller type issue. As well as, you too can mount a smartphone on prime of the lens.
NATO Ring. Picture credit score: Simmod Lens
Simmod NATO ring – fastened mounting for sooner setups
For crews working with a number of lenses, a Simmod NATO ring might be left mounted to every lens, eliminating the necessity to rebuild the rig each time. Every ring contains alignment marks on the NATO rails, making it simpler to maintain equipment persistently positioned throughout lenses. Because the motors and equipment keep aligned, the swap between lenses might be performed shortly.
Picture credit score: Simmod Lens
Constructed for grip and stability
The NATO ring is machined from high-grade aluminum and clamps onto the lens utilizing a rubber-lined insert that protects the floor. A knurled knob offers safe, tool-free tightening. In line with Simmod, the lens mounts and detaches shortly. For heavier setups, threaded sockets can be utilized to attach the ring to a lens help bracket. This could assist to distribute weight and cut back stress on the mount, particularly helpful with longer lenses or bigger equipment. The safe clamp helps eradicate play or slipping, a element that issues when exact motor alignment is required.
Simmod NATO ring specs
- Mounting: 1x Lens Clamp, 1x NATO Rail Receiver, 2x Anti-Twist 1/4″-20 Threads, 2x Anti-Twist 3/8″-16 Threads
- Colour: Black
- Materials of Development: Aluminum, Rubber
- Dimensions: 85 x 80 mm / 3.3 x 3.1 in.(Clamping Vary)
4-ring package. Picture credit score: Simmod Lens
Value and availability
The Simmod NATO Ring is accessible now, both as a single, clamp-on lens ring with NATO rail receiver for $149, or as a four-ring package for $699. The package features a NANUK waterproof onerous case with a customized foam insert that holds every ring individually.
Would a clamp-on accent like this simplify your package, or do you discover conventional cages extra versatile to your wants? Tell us within the feedback.
