QD failed, one off or has this happened to others

If you would like to post, you'll need to register. Note that if you have a BCG store account, you'll need a new, separate account here (we keep the two sites separate for security purposes).

RichF

Well-known and Infamous Member
Supporting Member
Marketplace
I have a friend who had a QD fail (camera slipped off the connector and fell the ground, broken Z 9 screen).

Has anyone else had this happen or have heard about this?
 
QD ??? Quick disconnect? Brand? Clamp or ???
The QD strap swivel from RRS

 
The QD strap swivel from RRS

As I understand it, that is the same system used to carry large guns, etc and also made by other manufacturers for other applications. At least I think that is correct. ;)
 
I had this QD break when I picked up the strap with my camera attached. Fortunately, the strap just came away from the camera in my hand, and the camera was left sitting on my desk. I have an RMA for the QD swivel but I'm a little nervous.
 
Yes, but 100% my fault. I made my own strap which was just a little too thick and pressed the release toggle. I think RRS uses the Magpul system which has excellent track record.
 
As I understand it, that is the same system used to carry large guns, etc and also made by other manufacturers for other applications. At least I think that is correct. ;)
thanks. Sounds solid. though may replace the QD swivels every year or so, just to be safe. small investment to keep $5-10,000 of equipment safe
 
My QD connector got clogged after a while with what must have been debris (or fine metal dust eroded from the socket over time), so that the spring-loaded retention pins would no longer engage in the socket. It worked again after I rinsed everything out with alcohol, but I now make sure to check that it is secured by giving it several sharp tugs.
 
they can be handy but one thing to be careful about is accidentally pressing the center button. I had a rifle hit the dirt because I somehow managed to press the button. No harm was done but a rifle is a whole lot more rugged than a camera and big lens.
 
I have read a fair number of people state that they failed to properly snap or lock the QD in place and had it work free while carrying something and had that something fall. They weren’t anti QD. They simply advised to make sure you hear that snap/lock before you trust it to hold fast.
This is what many people would characterize as a "failure". The system does require a level of care. Not fully engaging or accidentally pressing the release button are real risks. The system is robust but like most things is vulnerable to operator error.
 
I’ve used QD with Magpul straps for almost ten years on my cameras and lenses. Started with a RRS lens foot for a Nikon 500mm f/4 lens which I no longer own. Never had a failure. I always give the connection a test “tug” to make sure it is set, and I have cleaned the spring mechanisms with WD40 a few times in the past, as I live near the ocean.

Having a camera/lens slip off and fall could be that the QD was never properly set. That is certainly possible, but may not be a failure of the QD. Always check it (my test “tug.”).
 
Last edited:
I've sourced QD from multiple sources (Kirk & RRS for sure). I've never had one fail but do notice differences in the release buttons. Some are a bit recessed while some stand proud. The recessed ones are a bit of a pain to release but are probably much harder to accidently release. I always give my strap a good yank before throwing the strap over my shoulder. So far so good!
 
My strap was purchased direct from Magpul and I have never had it fail on me. I do have a OP/TECH loop system set up as a backup that I often use if I'm going to be walking around with it for a long time or have heavier lens attached. Fortunately I have never had the magpul fail on me though.
 
Ill take a quality QD mount over a peak design or black rapid attachment method any day. Frankly Id like to see the "failed" QD. Id be willing to bet it had more to do with the user than the system as a whole.
 
I have read a fair number of people state that they failed to properly snap or lock the QD in place and had it work free while carrying something and had that something fall. They weren’t anti QD. They simply advised to make sure you hear that snap/lock before you trust it to hold fast.

This is what many people would characterize as a "failure". The system does require a level of care. Not fully engaging or accidentally pressing the release button are real risks. The system is robust but like most things is vulnerable to operator error.


I believe the reasons above are the causes of most failures. You have to be smarter than the machine.

That said, you also have to be careful of your sources. I have bought QD connectors from Magpul, RRS, and from Ebay. I always test the connection when engaging QD connectors and sockets to be sure they are solid before heading out. I found the generic QD connectors from Ebay to be faulty. They connected to the QD socket, and you could hear the click as it engaged, but if I pulled hard the connector would pull right out of the socket. The tolerances of the fit were not quite right. Fortunately no damage was done, as I had checked them carefully, and subseqently threw them in the trash. The connectors from Magpul and RRS have never failed me.

Just be careful of where you buy them (use a reliable source) and always check the connection carefully before trusting your gear to the QD or any other system.
 
Back
Top