Possible to manufacture a Horseman 970 Rangefinder Cam?

loccdor · 2026-01-18T12:20:49-0500

For reference, this is what they look like:

I want to put a Nikon SW 90mm f/8 lens on a Horseman 970. This is not a standard lens for it so there are no cams made for it to couple the rangefinder.

Questions...

Can they be made DIY?
Does it have to be metal?
It seems the top surface has a curve that is what actually controls the behavior.
Or, should I just buy a 90mm cam meant for a different lens, because it will be "close enough"?

Dan Daniel · 2026-01-18T12:28:28-0500

I would bet that a 90mm generic or for another lens would work fine. The issue will be setting the infinity or zero point as lens design can lead to different back focus distances, etc. I'd expect this to be a simple mater of setting the lens standard stop correctly. Then confirm focus at two or three closer distances.

I wonder if you traced the 105 and the 75, then ran a curve that split the middle, if you'd get the proper shape?

loccdor · 2026-01-18T12:40:18-0500

Thank you @Dan Daniel , that's helpful. This is the shape of the 90mm so it does look pretty close to what you said.

ivan35mm · 2026-01-18T12:52:02-0500

if you can figure out the correct curve of that “top” part, i can create a .DXF file for you. That would allow you to have the custom part laser cut out of metal. or we can make a 3D file and you can try printing it.

should be easy enough

if you wanna manufacture this, and need some help, shoot me a direct message

loccdor · 2026-01-18T14:07:52-0500

@ivan35mm Thanks. If someone comes along with this cam and is willing to scan it, that might be worth a try.

ic-racer · 2026-01-18T14:15:01-0500

I scanned all mine and posted either here or large format form. I could re-post them.

loccdor · 2026-01-18T14:42:46-0500

ic-racer said:
I scanned all mine and posted either here or large format form. I could re-post them.

That would be very helpful. I searched but did not find it.

ivan35mm · 2026-01-18T14:51:01-0500

yea, just need one solid measurement to scale everything. would also need the thickness of the metal.

Possible to manufacture a Horseman 970 Rangefinder Cam?

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