Possible to adapt a 2x3 graphic roll film back to fit a 4x5 camera?

[BHuij]

I currently shoot an Intrepid 4x5, which can accept the roll film backs made for the Graflok system. I'm toying with the idea of picking up a Graphic 23 (6x9 roll film back). The ones for adapting to 4x5 go for close to $100 on a popular auction site. The ones that fit 2x3 graphic cameras go for as little as $30. Is there any way to buy one for 2x3 and easily DIY fittings to get it to fit a 4x5 graflok back without losing the consistent plane of focus?

 

[Ian Grant]

You can't easily adapt the 6x9 or 6x7 MF Graflex RFH for 5x4 the register is the same. You can adapt pre-WWII Rollex or Rada roll film holders which are even cheaper very easily.

Ian

 

[removed account4]

in additon to what ian said

look for a spring or graflok back for the size your 23 is,
and mount it on a sheet of plywood and make a reducing back.
you might find if you mount the roll back on a board by itself
the focus might not be too far off, it will just take a shim ..
(remove the film inside the roll back and put a piece of waxed paper **
where the film plane would be and check your focus )

good luck !

** to be used as make-shift "faux-ground glass"

 

[BrianShaw]

I understand the attraction to 6x9 but they can be costly. My solution was to be satisfied with 6X7 and use that more affordable roll film holder. Adapting the wrong size is just too much work for me.

 

[Dan Fromm]

OP, I agree with the previous posts. The only relatively inexpensive 2x3 roll holder for 4x5 cameras is the insertion type Adapt-A-Roll 620, 4x5 size. Its gate is offset 7 mm to the right from the lens' axis when the camera's movements are all centered. I have one. You might not want to contend with it.

Your best bet, if you want a Graflex 2x3 roll holder that fits a 4x5 Graflok is to keep looking and be patient. But there are others that are better and, with careful shopping, not all that expensive. Think lever wind Horseman 6x9 roll holders and the 6x9 Linhof Super Rollex.

 

[Ian Grant]

Adding to what Dan says, there's others as well like Wista, MPP. I can fid an MPP 6x9 back for under $50 to fit a Graflok back, I prefer my Wista 6x9 back because it fit's under the focus screen on my Wista 45DX.

Ian