I'm in the process of wondering about that very subject myself... although I have it already : the Norma
Perfect for field work : lightweight, very sturdy, accepts any lens, easy to use, ample shifting ranges (H and V).
It is easy to find, too, and generally cheap (in 4x5"), accessories included but I had to buy several before I got one that is in really really good shape. I use it every day, come rain come shine : see at www.axeldahl.com
What it doesn't do too well : vertical swing isn't yaw-free and getting the two standards aligned to perfection is... difficult. Apart from that, zip, nothing : it is made to work, withstand dust, rain and daily professional work. No idea how much it weighs but it is a moot point for me as I pack 7 lenses with it (from the 75 to the 210, with the 55 and 400 on the side whenever necessary). It isn't a P2 for sure but "light" is in the eye of the beholder - and his shoulders mostly !
Never mind the Sinar F1/2 : easy to find yes, lightweight, yes, very cheap, yes but they age extremely rapidly when one uses them outside, in the real world. I used the rear standard of an F2 for a while and two crucial points are now worn beyond redemption... Back to the Norma I went.
However, what troubles me is the lack of available parts and repairs possible and that weighs on the alternative candidate as well : the VX125. Apparently Toyo doesn't make cameras anymore (?) so it just is a matter of time before the same happens. The VX is pricier, too.
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Originally Posted by Axel
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