Filters for big lenses?

[Usagi]

Any economical solutions for filters used with lenses like Symmar 5.6/300mm or larger.

I have pretty much adapted Cokin's P adapter with gelatin holders during last decades but it offers adapters only up to 82mm diameter - which is too small, even for my largest MF lenses.

For now, I have only two ideas. One is to built own "adapter" like this and use cokin's filters in hope that they won't get scratched.
Of course, there's no way to use polarizing or graduated filters with such DIY adapter.

Another option would go for another system which gives basic setup, adapter + filter holder cheaply (is there such system, Cokin's own Z and X systems aren't cheap, in fact even Lee is cheaper).
Going for hunt bargain filters from Ebay for eg. 95mm diameter and use these with step up rings?


EDIT: How about using filter attached to back of the lens? Assuming that there's enough space in the bellows?

 

[lxdude]

My pro shade (compendium type) for my Bronica has slots in front and rear. Do any LF compendium shades have those?

 

[aluncrockford]

The lee filter system has an adapter to use the 105mm polariser on the front of the filter holder, you can buy an adapter to fit it onto the front of the symmar, for coloured filters it is perfectly fine to put them over the back element ,you can buy a cheap lee filter holder which does just that and takes wratten or any other gel filters

 

[Reinhold]

Here's a much better example of a home made 95 mm filter adapter...

Uses Calumet 4x4 resin filter mounts:
http://www.calumetphoto.com/eng/product/lee_4x4_pack_of_10_frames_filter_mounts_/le50004

Bore a 100 mm (3-15/16") diameter hole in a 4-1/2 x 5-1/4" piece of 1/4" plywood. The hole should be just a bit smaller than the lens O.D.
Glue some wood rails on both edges.
Saw a slot thru to the hole for a "springy" fit onto your lens.
Clean up an polish to your pleasure.

The basic idea can be applied to front or rear lens filters.
Been makin' 'em for years.
Simple.

Reinhold

www.classicBWphoto.com