Filter Stuck on Lens

[overturn]

I have a polarizer which I cross-threaded onto my lens. Is there any way of getting this thing off without cracking the lens? I can't seem to get a grip on it with anything and I don't want to clamp onto it because I'm afraid I'll crack the lens.

[Saralonde]

Cross-threaded? That's a tough one. Did you try a filter wrench?

[overturn]

would a local camera shop likely have these? because as the page you linked to says,

As they are cheap, it is best to order these in a larger planned order as minimum shipping charges can easily be as expensive as the Lens Filter Wrenches themselves. When purchased along with other gear, I think they are very worth this small extra cost.

[lputman]

A local camera shop might be able to get it off for you.

Originally Posted by overturn

would a local camera shop likely have these? because as the page you linked to says,

[RoyL]

Most CPL's are made of several components poped together, if you sacrifice (or carefully) the cpl by getting a knife and insert it between the glass and edge you should be able to exert enough pressure to pop them apart, take the glass out, and my advice is crush the other bit so you can get it out.

If you are using a cheap unit, that is ok but they are not always made well. But cost outways all other things. Once you decide on whether you want to use one invest in a more expensive unit. I prefer Cokin Filter's but they are completely different.

Good luck

[overturn]

it is a cheap filter, so i'll try popping them apart. I'll also try my camera shop. Maybe next time i'll buy a more expensive unit.

[cherubb2]

Everytime I use my polarizing lens I am faced with the same stress of trying to get if off.....I would take it to the camera shop too.

[mountaingoatee]

Sometimes if you just relax and apply even pressure completely around the circumference
it'll just loosen. eg, fiddle with it while reading.

[Cabe]

I've used with success one of these

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Baby-boa-bot.../dp/B0001J0456

It works basically like an oil filter wrench but made of soft camera safe materials like rubber and plastic.

Alignment is fairly critical as you only want to grip the filter housing, not the lens as well, who knows how much you could torque the lens gears by accident.

[mcguireuk]

another tip would be to warm up the CPL filter by submerging in hot water for a few moments until hot this expands the diameter of the CPL filter which should allow it to be loose enough to work free.... just don't cool it down again. allow it to cool naturally or you'll risk cracking the glass.