New DIY 4x5 Camera kit to be launched soon!

[svarzaru]

Since the Bender camera closed their shop a while ago, the only kit on the market is the Buldog kit. For those who want an alternative to this MDF made kit, I am working on launching a series of camera kits, the first one to be a folding 4x5 camera.

As of now, the first small production run is scheduled for sometime in the fall. The design of the folder is nearly complete and I am now working on programming the CNC machine to make the parts for the prototype. The target price is $200-$350 depending on the features selected, but the final pricing will be determined later, during the summer.

If you want to be informed of the developments, please visit my blog at http://diycamerakit.blogspot.com/ where you can subscribe to updates through an RSS feed. Once the website (http://www.diycamerakit.com) is up, I will integrate the blog into it.

Here is a render of the camera (the materials shown are not necessarily the ones that will be offered, see the blog for details).

[William McEwen]

I didn't know Bender ceased doing business. Glad you're taking over!

Best of luck. A good looking camera!

[Turner Reich]

Excellent work, keep going, you will succeed. I like what I see and how you are persistently working out the design and production issues.

[Doug Dolde]

I'd sure pick something besides Cocobolo. It looks like crap in that wood.

[rknewcomb]

I'd sure pick something besides Cocobolo. It looks like crap in that wood.

I really like the pattern in the wood you've used in the illustration - really different and very cool looking.
Robert Newcomb

[MenacingTourist]

Best of luck to your project!
I'm interested in "parts" as well.

[ruckusman]

Just had a look at your site, think if you can make it happen you may be onto a winner.

Perfect for people wanting real quality and features who can't afford or justify the cost of the other cameras available.

I've just finished building a 6x17 using joined Mamiya press backs and an Arca Swiss rail and focusing mechanisms as I wanted movements.
Difficult to pack and carry though.
Wood field camera like what you're planning would work perfectly for what I've made.

BTW on your site when going back to the top via the navigation link on the top left hand side, the bottom part of the frameset is repeating

regards

Glenn

[Photojeep]

I think your design and attention to detail is very good! I'm anxious to see how all of this comes out.

Best of luck,
Randy

[Carsten Wolff]

I'd sure pick something besides Cocobolo. It looks like crap in that wood.

Agreed, looks like funky, but still bad Art Deco. All the best!

[Brian C. Miller]

Agreed, looks like funky, but still bad Art Deco. All the best!

Hey! I like Art Deco! And that camera doesn't go far enough, not by a long shot! And I want an 8x10 version, too. Could it be convertible with an 11x14 back?