Overall Rating
 1 of 5

Value Rating
 2 of 5

Price Paid:  $500.00 from Calumet

Summary:
While you can certainly take good photos with this camera, I'd really suggest looking for either a used Calumet CC400 or a Sinar A1 (or Alpina). Both are significantly better cameras, and the Sinar is compatible with the largest system of large format stuff in the world. If money's really an issue, make a camera based on Bert West's book.

Strengths:
Low Price (for new equipment), Light weight, Calumet service.

Weaknesses:
Mine came with the standards bent out of alignment. Everything is very flimsy. Controls aren't very smooth or positive feeling.

Similar Products Used:
Sinar P, F2, A1 Horseman LE, Calumet CC400, Agfa Ansco 5x7...

Customer Service:
Excellent

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Value Rating
 4 of 5

Model Reviewed:
Cadet 4x5

Summary:
After working with professional photographers for 7 years now - I've come to realize that you don't need much in the way of equipment to capture a moment. From Holgas to pinholes - great imagery need not be equated with $$$$$$. The cadet is further proof of that.

Strengths:
What's beginner about it? The range of movement is excellent, they set you up with a sweet lens, metal assembly - it's great!

Weaknesses:
None

Similar Products Used:
None

Overall Rating
 4 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Model Reviewed:
Cadet 4x5

Summary:
This camera allowed me to participate in an otherwise very expensive hobby. LF isn't for everyone and this camera allows individuals to decide if it is or not before going to one of the more expensive LF systems.

Strengths:
The Price! This camera can give a beginner to Large Format everything he/she would ever need without sacrificing huge amounts of cash.

Weaknesses:
Portability, but then again it's a mono-rail. Ground glass seems a little dark around the edges.

Similar Products Used:
This is my first LF camera.

Customer Service:
Fantastic!

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Visitors rate this review
5.00 of 5,
1 votes

Model Reviewed:
Cadet 4x5

Summary:
I bought this camera to build a system of lenses and accessories, planning to replace it when I had everything else I needed. However, this is not just a starter camera. The Cadet is a serious tool despite the low price. I see no need to upgrade to a more expensive camera.

Strengths:
Great value for the money. This camera has everything necessary for serious photography.

Weaknesses:
None

Similar Products Used:
Various Graflex cameras, Busch Pressman, and Toyo monorails.

Customer Service:
Excellent.