Circular Polarizer Question

[mom2rtk]

I have a Hoya Pro1 Circular Polarizer. I hadn't used it in a while, but when I got it out last week on our Utah trip, it seemed really loose to me. As in, I would line it up but then easily be bumped out of alignment. Should it get loose like that over time and is there any way to snug it up?

 

[boBQuincy]

Some filters have a threaded ring that can be tightened (or removed). It takes a spanner wrench to turn them but two tiny screwdrivers can work if you are careful. Look on the front (non-lens side) of the filter to see if there are two really small grooves opposite each other.

 

[mom2rtk]

Some filters have a threaded ring that can be tightened (or removed). It takes a spanner wrench to turn them but two tiny screwdrivers can work if you are careful. Look on the front (non-lens side) of the filter to see if there are two really small grooves opposite each other.

I see 2 grooves, but still am not sure what to do with them. Is the idea to turn that entire ring using those 2 spots? And idea if I need to go clockwise or counter clockwise to tighten it up?

 

[boBQuincy]

Yep, use those two grooves to turn the entire ring, usually CCW to loosen it. It is best to remove it, clean the whole thing (including the glass) then put it back together, tightening it just enough to give the amount of drag you want. Then maybe put a tiny drop of nail polish on the threads to secure it (but not so much you can't ever get it loose again).

Camera repair places have the special tool for the ring but before I bought one I used two jewelers screwdrivers to turn it, with a helper holding the outer ring.

 

[mom2rtk]

I'm going to try this tomorrow. Thanks so much Bob! I thought I was losing my mind when it seemed so loose.