shen hao MF backs on a deardorff?

[kaiyen]

Hi all,
I got all kinds of non-relevant results in a search, and since the Deardorff is an older camera (other than of course the new ones being made) I am not as familiar with them.

Is it possible to use the Shen Hao 6x12 and/or 6x17 backs on a Deardoff (obviously with the 4x5 reducing back)? A link to the item is at http://www.badgergraphic.com/store/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=122

thanks,
allan

[Jeremy Moore]

Allan,

The Shen Hao backs are made to be used on graflok backs. If your Deardorff has a graflok back then you can. You can find more info on graflok backs here: http://www.graflex.org/speed-graphic/features.html#GraflokBack

[mandoman7]

I don't know for sure, but I would guess a Deardorff graflok back would be hard to find. It kind of defeats the purpose of using one of those cameras to put a small back on it, as cumbersome as they are. Most people wouldn't carry a big heavy camera to shoot small film, seemingly. There are many cheap cameras with graflok backs built in (Crown Graphic), as an alternative.

JY

[Nick_3536]

There is a 6x17 back that fits a 5x7 graflok back. So that's an extra thing to consider.

[kaiyen]

Ah - I didn't realize Deardorffs were not graflock backs. I thought they were pretty standard. I'm not sure about the comment on using a "small" back on the Deardorff - are graflock backs inherently "small?"

thanks. and again sorry for my lack of knowledge on Deardorffs. Sometimes there is so much info out there it's hard to get through.
allan

[Ernest Purdum]

Graflok backs are not inherently small, but the rollfilm holders used with them are medium format - smaller than 4" X 5".

I don't think of Deardorffs as being big heavy cameras. I think they are pretty compact and light for the movement and bellows capability they have.

I have a Graflok back for my 5" X 7" Deardorff. I think multiple formats are a great way to get the most out of expensive pieces of glass.

[mandoman7]

Graflok backs are not inherently small, but the rollfilm holders used with them are medium format - smaller than 4" X 5".

I don't think of Deardorffs as being big heavy cameras. I think they are pretty compact and light for the movement and bellows capability they have.

I have a Graflok back for my 5" X 7" Deardorff. I think multiple formats are a great way to get the most out of expensive pieces of glass.

You're right. I would agree that the 5x7 is not a big heavy camera, and could still handle the graflok pretty well, as I guess you would know. If I was buying a camera with using a roll film back in mind, though, I'm not sure a Deardorff would be my first choice. I have an 8x10 and Baby Deardorff, for reference.

JY