Hello all, I have a battery grip on my D7000 which I love except for the quality of the plastic and the design of the geared mount screw. Is there a best quality of the different brands out there? I am wondering if the actual Nikon grip is of better quality and is worth the money, I have a cheap copy i believe it is a zekios but am wondering if anyone else has had problems with it coming apart. I realize that I usually have a heavy lens on my camera, either a 28-300 or a 150-500 so when on a tripod with the 28-300 it is a strain on the grip, I also use a rapid strap which connects to the tripod mount. I just had to super glue the grip back together because all of the little screw bosses inside have broken off.

Any suggestions are welcome

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Your experience validates my decision to bite the bullet and get the Nikon grip. It's as well made as the camera. Still, there are many satisfied users of third party grips.

Kent

Hi Jim, I use the Nikon MB-D11 grip and love it. Nice tight fit and it is made (mostly) of the same magnesium alloy as the camera body. I, too, use mine on a tripod with some old MF lenses that are heavy with no problems.

I know some folks are happy with their 3rd party grips, but I just wanted mine to be built as well as my camera.

It is expensive, but not so bad when compared to all the other gear hanging off it.

Enjoy.

Charles

Hi Jim,
I also have the MB-D11 grip on my D7K and I am very satisfied. While it is more expensive than the "imitations", I could not justify getting something "cheap" for an expensive camera. I never tried any of the "lower quality" brands, but I have read all of the comments here on Nikonians, and I'm glad I got the original.

Paul

If you are not using the heavier lens tripod foot instead of the grip, your camera stability will greatly suffer regardless of grip model.It will also break.
Getting a longer lens with some weight at the far end is putting too much strain on the fulcrum point, which will ruin the Nikon or plastic grips. If used properly the plastic one should last a very long time.
Using a long lens on the camera and supporting it on the camera's tripod mount, if and when it bends the lens mount, will not be covered under warranty because it was not designed to handle such an unbalanced load.
Stan
St Petersburg Russia

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Hi Stan,

I completely agree that when using a tripod or monopod with a lens that has a tripod foot, the foot should always be used to mount the lens and camera body to the support system. This applies to the Sigma 50-500mm as it has a lens foot.
That said, the OP's 28-300mm does not have a tripod foot leaving the tripod socket on the camera body or in this case the grip, the only way to mount the camera and lens to the tripod.
The tripod socket on the camera body, or in this case the grip, should be strong enough to support the camera with any Nikkor lens that does not have a lens foot including the 28-300mm or even the discontinued AF 80-200mm f/2.8D ED One Ring that is significantly larger and heavier than the 28-300mm. I have been using that lens mounted to multiple bodies (F3 w/ & w/o MD-4, F4s, F100 w/ & w/o MB-15, F5, D70s, D200 w/MB-D200, D300 w/MB-D10, D700 w/MB-D10, D2 series and D3 series bodies) with and without Grips supported via the tripod socket on the body or Grip and have not had an issue in almost 20 years of use.
Good Luck and Enjoy your Nikons!

Best Regards,
Marty

>Hi Stan,
>
>I completely agree that when using a tripod or monopod with a
>lens that has a tripod foot, the foot should always be used to
>mount the lens and camera body to the support system. This
>applies to the Sigma 50-500mm as it has a lens foot.
>That said, the OP's 28-300mm does not have a tripod foot
>leaving the tripod socket on the camera body or in this case
>the grip, the only way to mount the camera and lens to the
>tripod...

Wouldn't using a "camera plate" designed for the D7000 W/grip (e.g. Kirk PZ-143) be the safest way to ensure the grip doesn't become damaged from tripod/monopod use if the lens doesn't have a foot, or actually any lens?

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Hi Jerry,


>Wouldn't using a "camera plate" designed for the
>D7000 W/grip (e.g. Kirk PZ-143) be the safest way to ensure
>the grip doesn't become damaged from tripod/monopod use if the
>lens doesn't have a foot, or actually any lens?

That depends. If the third party Grip has the same bottom profile and contours as the MB-D11, the plate should help distribute the load slightly better than just using the tripod socket.
Unfortunately more often than not, third party Grips do not have the same profile and contours as the MB-D10 so an Arca-Swiss plate or L-Bracket designed for the MB-D10 will not have a tight fit. Even if a third party Grip has the same profile and contours as the MB-D10, the inferior materials and build quality of the Grip must be relied upon to distribute the forces acting on the body and lens through the Grip and into the tripod.

Given the D7000 body is about $1350.00 and front heavy lenses can cost as much as $2000.00 (14-24mm) you have to ask yourself is the risk of catostrophic failure worth the $100.00 to $160.00 savings from buying a third party grip.
$100.00 is about 7% of the cost of the D7000 body alone and $150.00 is 11%.

Personally I would not even consider using a Black Rapid strap with it mounted to a third party grip. Too many things can go wrong in a hurry.
Good Luck and Enjoy your Nikons!

Best Regards,
Marty

>If you are not using the heavier lens tripod foot instead of
>the grip, your camera stability will greatly suffer regardless
>of grip model.It will also break.
>Getting a longer lens with some weight at the far end is
>putting too much strain on the fulcrum point, which will ruin
>the Nikon or plastic grips. If used properly the plastic one
>should last a very long time.
>Using a long lens on the camera and supporting it on the
>camera's tripod mount, if and when it bends the lens mount,
>will not be covered under warranty because it was not designed
>to handle such an unbalanced load.
>Stan

Hi all,
I have just ordered the Nikon MB-D11 and I will receive it soon.
I read this topic and now i have one little concern: is it possible to use it on a tripod with the Nikkor 70-300 Vr without a risk of breaking something?
There is no tripod foot on this lens…

Fabien.

I purchased a low cost grip from Amazon and to date it has been just fine. However, after reading all the various threads regarding problems with non-Nikon grips I've been quite careful in its use. I elected not to purchase a Black Rapid strap specifically becuase I was afraid that I might experience problems with my D7000 hanging upaide down relying upon the non-Nikon grip. I haven't experienced any problems from a trip use perspective. If my knock-off grip fails I'll most likely invest in the Nikon grip.

Tom

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>I elected not to purchase a Black Rapid
>strap specifically becuase I was afraid that I might
>experience problems with my D7000 hanging upaide down relying
>upon the non-Nikon grip. - reply from Tom

I use a Zeikos battery grip and have had no issues, either with quality or useage.

I also have a Black Rapid strap and attach it to the normal strap mount on the camera rather than the tripod mount. I use a D ring and attached the strap to that. The Black Rapid strap is a godsend and very easy to get used to.

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Hi Jim,


>Is there a best quality of the different brands out there?

Yes! The Nikon MB-D11 is the best available. It has the same build quality as the D7000 camera body.

>I am wondering if the actual Nikon grip is
>of better quality and is worth the money,...

Again, Yes. The MB-D11 has a Magnesium chassie just like the D 7000 camera body.
Bottom line, you pay for what you get.
Good Luck and Enjoy your Nikons!

Best Regards,
Marty

>(...) The (...) has a Magnesium chassie just like the
>D 7000 camera body.

from quick serch on web i see the D7000 magnesium parts are only the top and the back. The bottom partof d7000 with tripod socket is plastic

Best regards,
Vlad

Not so. The link from Nikon's description and images.

http://imaging.nikon.com/lineup/dslr/d7000/features05.htm#f01

Respectfully,
Frank

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Actually, Vlad is right. Only the top and back of the camera has the magnesium alloy structure. The bottom and front is plastic. The pictures show the alloy frame attached to the connecting plastic parts. I don't know how much of the battery grip is alloy, but it seems to be a significant portion.

Kent

Note that he changed what was originally written.

The quote was about the grip, which made his statement about the grip incorrect. Changing it to the camera itself makes it correct, which most D7000 owners know including me.

Also note that the images are with grip, which is what we were discussing.

I don't fault Vlad for editing the post to reflect the point he was trying to make.

Respectfully,
Frank

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Frank, and everybody else,

I apologize for the confusion. I my original #10 post I referred to quote: just like the D 7000 camera body. End-quote,

After I realized than Frank,and possible all other will interpret my post, as I referring to the grip, and not to the camera, I added "D7000" in my post.

Not under any condition I applied that you do not know that. It just in my opinion Magnesium grip is not serving to full its potential if it's attached to the plastic part.


Again, sorry for the confusion.

Vlad

The grip is not all metal.
The top and end bells are plastic which is not as bad as some are saying here. Just like the camera itself, and your car for that matter, a good portion of the unit is plastic.
So far all I have seen in posts about 3rd party grips breaking are little tabs on the battery carrier, which is also all plastic on the Nikon version also.
Stan
St Petersburg Russia

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I have owned OEM grips on 3 different bodies. This last time I almost went with a 3rd party, but decided I had read too many negative reviews compared to the Nikon reviews.

I wanted a grip I didn't have to worry about and could take a little knocking around without worry. While all brands may do just fine within reason, I personally decided I wanted one known for it's build quality.

Many have great experiences with 3rd party grips and have had no issues whatsoever, so I don't want to bash the third party brands, I just decided the Nikon OEM would be much less risk.

Personal preference also played a part. I do prefer to buy the OEM brand in some cases, this (and batteries) being one of them.

-Tim

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I have the Nikon grip on my D7000 and i love it. The fit is perfect, it screws down snug and stays put.

Worth the few extra bucks.

I agree, have not taken mine off since I got it.

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I tend to think Battery Grips should not be one of the first things people buy. On other message boards, I've noticed some people buying a grip as soon as they buy their first DSLR. Why?

I think they believe because the size begins to look more 'full frame' that others will think it is, so therefore, bigger is better.

That used to be my intention with it...so, I never actually bought one.
But lately as I am getting more and more work, I've found that I would like to have the continuous flow of power of a second battery, hence the need for a battery grip. If I get one, it'll definitely be the Nikon one...

JustiNikon
Just a Nikon.

Justin,

Ability to add a second battery is very helpful, but D7000 has very decent battery life. I constantly get over 1000 shots from one charge.

The main advantage to use a grip -- let's think together…. Too many people complaint on softness of their images with D7000. But in fact the D7000 is very sharp camera. The 16MP sensor is just less forgiving to any movements and your handheld technics need to be improved compare to D90/D300 cameras. Without a grip, in portrait mode, your right hand is just hanging there in an air, trying to do several tasks in the same time (like turning dials, pressing buttons, enc…). You are basically balancing the camera with your right hand. The main support is provided by your left hand.

With a grip attached, you can tuck your both elbows to your body - get a much better support from both hands simultaneously and thus get sharper images as a rule.

Any $36 grip will do wanders in ability for you to better support your verticals shots. The only difference - you need to be more careful handling cheaper models and do not use Rapid black to support your camera - as no warranty on physically damaged equipment.

Hope my 2 cents make sense

Best regards,
Vlad

it absolutely makes sense. I've never used one, and have only ever thought of it as basically just a battery pack. Without, i've not had problems getting soft images except in cases of just lazy shooting on my part.

Anyway, I don't mean to sound like I'm condemning so many people for using them. I'm a member of another photography forum, and I see many newcomers investing in grips for a D40/40x/60...and they only shoot as a hobby. So, I've developed that particular theory, but if it really helps with camera stabilization, then sure. But as I said, as I've been growing the professional side (income producing), I've seen a need for it in terms of battery life.

JustiNikon
Just a Nikon.

Justin,

Cameras that you listed indeed will benefit from extra battery, but also, they will benefit from extra weight on the body in order to balance heavier lenses.

... and you do not need to go pro to be able to enjoy better images

Best regards,
Vlad

After having motor drives on my FEs and F3/T and then with the larger grip of my F4s and F5 and purchasing a grip for my F100 (as soon as I got it), I'm spoiled by the extra area to hold the camera since I have large hands. The convenience of the extra battery is just icing on the cake, so to speak.

I was so accustomed to having a grip that I got a package deal with the D7K, grip, and extra battery. I've never shot my D7K without the grip.

Whatever reason a person has for getting a grip, its their personal reason, and can't be bad or good, just personal preference.

It does seem to help me hold steady and that was the first impression I got with my first motor drive back in FE/F3 days. Seemed I got an extra stop on shutter speed with the larger grip.

Charles

I agree with you. I think for most amatures, the grip is for show. I have thought about getting one for years, but I didn't think I needed it, and I didn't want to make the camera any bigger in my small bag.

But,...I find that when i shoot basketball (which I did a lot of this past winter), I shoot exclusively in the vertical orientation. I think the grip and vertical release would not only give me even better stability, but it would reduce fatigue that comes from holding the camera vertical for 2 hours.

I might get one (the Nikon one, of course - why take the risk?) next basketball season. If I do, I'll probably take it off for the rest of year when I shoot primarily horizontally.

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I ordered the neewer grip along with the nikon 80-200 2.8 yesterday. I never had a battery grip before but for $36 I'll give it a shot ( I need to see what the hype is about). I would consider the nikon brand if the price was 100 but for 200-250 it doesn't make sense to me. I can turn the camera to portrait orientation for free. I can post from experience next week when it gets here

>I ordered the neewer grip along with the nikon 80-200 2.8
>yesterday. I never had a battery grip before but for $36 I'll
>give it a shot ( I need to see what the hype is about). I
>would consider the nikon brand if the price was 100 but for
>200-250 it doesn't make sense to me. I can turn the camera to
>portrait orientation for free. I can post from experience next
>week when it gets here


Well, I got my grip today and I can say that it is wonderful in portrait orientation. It's like night and day when shooting. I don't have an extra battery but at the moment I don't need one. I just won't hold the grip with my 80-200 2.8 when not shooting. The weight of that lens feels like it can snap the grip off.

I received my Nikon grip and am very pleased with it, maybe it is just the particular copy grip i had but all of the battery holders as well as the large 3600 mah battery pack fit the nikon grip great.

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I have both the Meike grip and the Nikon. Yep, I did an about face. I bought the Meike because at the time I had just sold my first MB-D11 and I sorely missed it. I was strapped, so I got the Meike cheap and it filled the gap. I recently sold some equipment and grabbed another Nikon. I intend to hold on to this one for dear life!

The Nikon just feels better, the finish and grip material match my D7000 to a T. No more rattle in the locking mechanism. I also noted that the metal inside that supports the tripod socket is thicker than the cheaper version. The buttons and dials seem more solid as well. I do portrait work, so having a grip is a real plus. I just have to retrain my hand to not reach for the camera's shutter release and use the grip's instead. I have rather large hands so having the grip on fits well.

I plan to use my Black Rapid strap, but only for lighter weight lenses, maybe the 70-300 VRII being the upper limit. I have a big old 300 AI lens that will stay on a tripod using its foot, so no strain on the camera and grip.

So my vote is for the MB-D11. I have the Meike up for sale.

George

Well, now i'm back into consideration for a grip due to this conversation.
lol.
actually, I live in South America and my mom is pondering a gift to buy me for my birthday, so I figured I'd ask her to get the grip since she wont have to drop some major cash on it and it could be quite a useful piece of equipment.

I did a shoot this weekend where I was struggling with the focus/focus lock because i didnt have a grip..so, I've wisened up..i'd say.

JustiNikon
Just a Nikon.

I find it very useful. The only downside is having any lens beyond a standard making the camera front heavy and having the camera and lens tip forward.

Solution: Lay the camera on its left side, the side with the connector covers. Viola! No more tipping and the camera is easier to grab with the grip side up.

George

Even a casual amateur shooter will notice a difference in handling and control in vertical orientation that means for the first time, the need for normally awkward vertical right hand position, with elbow high and hand over the top of the camera is replaced with a super stable, arms tucked tight to the body sort of arm position. If you shoot many, with any camera, in vertical orientation, images improve from the first shot onward. That, coupled with the access to controls, such as another multi-selector that is usable in vertical mode, and a AF/AE-L button in the perfect location for AF-On function, makes shooting vertical is suddenly more comfortable and with easier control access than horizontal orientation.
Probably 75% of my people shots are vertically oriented and not having a grip would reduce quality of all those hand-held images.
Stan
St Petersburg Russia

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My problem is that I have used cameras over the years that had no battery grip and it's so ingrained in me to hold the camera the old way that I forget to use the grip's release. I am trying something though. I keep my camera on my eye and rotate it sort of like a steering wheel until the camera is vertical and my finger finds the release.. Maybe if I do it enough times I will unlearn the old way and adopt this new better way. Wish me luck!

George

I don't know if you have seen this before, its a good tool if you suspect anything online. It shows you what a fake grip is and a good video of it too, the pictures are very helpful.
http://fstoppers.com/fakembd11

Visit http://www.dougcookphoto.com

I've shot with a D3 before ( a friends) and using the camera with its built-in grip was hard for me to remember. It just felt awkward, but I only used it for two separate shoots..nothing consistent. So, 'im sure i'll be able to adjust..
but I'm looking forward to it.

JustiNikon
Just a Nikon.

I purchased my D7000 as a kit with a 18-200mm lens and a mixed bag of accessories such as flash, lens filters, tripod etc. Almost all of the extra items were Zeikos and they were junk. The filters and flash were replaced with Nikon products. I will replace the tripod with Manfrotto and I will be ordering a Nikon MB-D11 battery grip soon. I say spend the extra money and go with Nikon, I do not think you will regret it.
Larry

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I am curious as to where you purchased your outfit? I see a lot of kits like that on EBay and I always wondered about the quality of the extras.

Love my MB-D11 and I had the Meikos before. I use a Black Rapid Sports 2 strap connected to the grip and I am comfortable with the sturdiness of the Nikon. I used it yesterday with my D7000, my kits lens (18-55) and an SB-700 with a Gary Fong Lightsphere. So a pretty good load. No issues at all.

George

Hello,

Purchased the kit on Amazon. It was the only kit I found at the time that came with an 18-200mm lens instead of the 18-55mm and the other kit lens I can't remember now. If I had to do it over again I would buy the body only then get the lens. I would add Nikon accessories as I could. I would not buy Zeikos. I haven't used but one item of all the extras in the kit and that was the Nikon bag case. I have only used the camera, lens and bag.
Larry

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