Will a 50mm unmounted filter fit in a standard 52mm filter ring?
Asked 1/2/2014
2 views
2 answers
0
I have an unmounted optical glass filter that measures 50mm in diameter and 2mm thick, and I’d like to mount it for use on a camera lens. Do standard 52mm filter rings typically hold 50mm glass, or does the internal retaining diameter vary by brand? I’m trying to avoid buying parts by trial and error if there’s a common standard for unmounted filter glass sizes.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
12y ago
2 Answers
2
For such project, I would use a step-up ring (e.g. 49-52mm to maximize usable filter area, or 46-52mm to have more leeway during mounting). The glass is guaranteed to fit in the 52mm inner thread and slimmer part with outer thread is guaranteed to provide support for the glass. To fix the glass into mount and fill the remaining gap, I'd try out silicone sealant first.
Disclaimer: I have made some DIY equipment, but not fixed glass to metal.
Originally by user4390. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user4390
12y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Usually, a 52mm filter ring is a good candidate for a 50mm unmounted filter, and at least one confirmed example is that a 50mm glass element fits correctly in a 52mm Tiffen filter holder. However, the internal retaining diameter of filter rings is not a published universal standard and can vary by manufacturer, even when the thread size is the same.
So the practical answer is:
- a 52mm ring may fit a 50mm filter,
- but it is not guaranteed across all brands.
If you’re adapting bare glass, a donor 52mm filter ring or a step-up ring can work, but expect some DIY fitting. If needed, the glass can be secured with a non-permanent, careful mounting method, as long as it does not intrude into the clear aperture or risk contaminating the glass.
In short: yes, 52mm is the right size to try first for a 50mm bare filter, but brand-to-brand variation means some trial and error is still normal.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI12y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Are there drawbacks to buying one larger filter and using step-up rings on multiple lenses?
What filters fit the Voigtländer Super Wide-Heliar 15mm f/4.5 with its built-in hood?
Should I use step-up rings or buy duplicate filters for 52mm and 55mm lenses?
How do I choose coupling rings for reverse-macro with my 30mm, 50mm and 75-300mm lenses?
Can Lightroom show which areas each Black & White Mix slider affects?