8x10 field cameras - any suggestions?

[Jonathan Barlow]

I have an all-metal Canham 8x10 and a Deardorff 8x10 (1952 military V8). Very different cameras, but both a lot of fun to use. I also have a Sinar P2 8x10 that doesn't leave the house.

[Ari]

Welly, once you're ready to buy something, and it should be anything, put a WTB stating your intended use and budget.
I did that, and ended up with something I would probably not have considered, and one that was within my budget, leaving room for a lens, film holders and film.
It's best not to overthink your first purchase in a different format, as you may be pleasantly surprised.
If it doesn't work out, you've learned more precisely what you need next camera.

[John O'Connell]

There are no 8x10s that no one knows about. As far as going for a snip, the Calumet C1, the Ansco, and the Century Universal all leap to mind--at least I can say that I've seen them for prices I'd consider reasonable for what they are.

In 8x10, the imponderables are cost, bellows length, and to a lesser extent, weight. You can't pay more than you can pay, focus a long lens on a short camera, or carry something that's too heavy. Everything else isn't a very big deal, unless you know you need a movement not offered on some cameras (Kodak 2D & Deardorff NFS, for example).

[dperez]

Save your money and get a Chamonix or other lightweight camera. They do come up on the used market every so often, so keep an eye out for one or post a WTB in the For Sale section of this forum. Chamonix 8x10 cameras are actually priced rather competitively when compared to other camera makes. They are very light and rigid.

-DP

[Miguel Coquis]

Check with people doing cameras and that can answer to individual requests, it is interesting to see there are few craftsman still doing the job !
http://www.argentumcamera.com/
http://donchev-cameras.blogspot.fr/
http://www.guillorycameras.com/
http://www.lg4mat.net/index.html
etc. etc. etc.

[Jonathan Barlow]

http://donchev-cameras.blogspot.fr/

Donchev.

A field camera with all-geared movements. Now that is an interesting design!

[Miguel Coquis]

http://donchev-cameras.blogspot.fr/

Donchev.

A field camera with all-geared movements. Now that is an interesting design!

My advise would be to check each, and consider similitudes and differences.
Ask questions directly, open communication with.
Thats a first step.
Each camera maker must posses a strong and a week side....