Arca Swiss 6x9 FC vs. FC Metric

Hello, After much research and worshipping of the Large Format forum, I have pre tty much decided on the Arca Swiss 6x9 FC for my new project photographing Main Streets. My question is, do I get the regular F Compact, or the Metric, which ha s geared rise, fall & shift and weighs a bit more. It also costs $700 more. Is the convenience of the geared adjustments worth that much? I have an arthritic finger and need controls that are easy. Has anyone used the locking adjustments on the regular FC - are they simple to use? Do you turn a knob or flip a clamp ? Obviously I have no access to one of these cameras. Thanks.

With the non metric version you turn knobs to loosen and tighten the rise/fall movements, and also swing. Tilt is a lever type movement. For shift, you push down on a spring loaded clamp and move the standard laterally with the other hand. Both are two handed movements. If your hands are stiff, you probably will find the metric version easier to work with.

I have been using the 6x9 "M-Line", which is fully geared, for about 8 months now and only have praise for it, I look forward to going to work and getting to use this excellently crafted tool. I am a proffesional photographer with most of my clients being architects and ad agencys, although I'm shooting more and more work for magazines as time goes on. The extra weight is not really a consideration for me as I am usually carrying a kit including 7 lenses and 4 backs as well as a comprehensive lighting kit. I'm carrying the Arca in a Tamrac rolling strong box which makes a life a lot easier. I have recently spoken to a collegue who is using the FC Metric and is more than pleased, although he misses the all geared movements when working in the studio......... Good luck with the project

Mike

Thanks, guys. I have decided on the Metric. It's only money. Cheers.

I used an FC for over 10 years and recently replaced it with the metric. The ease of use and precision of the gearing is more than worth the additional cost. SB

Now I've had my Arca 6x9 FC Metric for two weeks, and I'm wild about it. I am very glad you all talked me into the geared movements. I use movements on nearly every shot and it would get annoying to have to lock everything all the time. Great, great camera. Cheers!