Thanks for the complement Andy, but I don't think I can compete with RRS other than mine probably cost around a fiver in materials. Heat particularly, would have added to the final cost but then I'll not know how much until the electric bill arrives
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I have had a good dig around and still have enough materials to make another. Big decision is should I go for an 80mm long version or stick with a carbon copy of my 60mm version. My big problem with 80mm is that I would have to sort a method for machining, as my machine vice has a max jaw opening of 62mm. No problem until cutting the dovetail which must be done in a single setup for max accuracy.
So into the future will I get any benefit from 80mm as I already have a Manfrotto long plate QR release. My QR has a 60 deg dovetail whereas Manfrotto use 45 deg, so my existing Manfrotto long plates would not fit my QR anyway. Mmmmmmm. Plenty of time to think as I carve another lever
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Don