Simmod Lens NATO Ring Introduced – Mount Motors, LiDAR, and More to Cine Lenses

Accessory News

by Alexandra ThompsonJuly 15^th, 2025

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Simmod Lens has introduced a new accessory: a clamp-on NATO ring designed for cine lenses with an outer diameter of 80–85mm. It provides a secure way to mount motors, LiDAR systems, and other lightweight accessories via standard NATO rails. This approach can be especially useful for mirrorless setups, handheld rigs, or compact builds like the Sony VENICE 2 RIALTO, where traditional cages and rod systems can be bulky or impractical. Let’s take a look.

Simmod Lens, based in Canada, is known for their high-quality lens modification kits. They’ve produced some interesting ones, like their LPL mounts for various cameras as well as an LPL Essence Rear Magnetic Filter System. The new NATO ring fits into this line of practical tools by offering a simple way to expand functionality without overbuilding the rig. Developed by Simmod founder Ron Sim CSC in collaboration with other working cinematographers, the ring reflects a user-driven design approach and features a patented construction with additional patents pending.

Also of interest, Simmod Lens has taken their first step into manufacturing their own lens series.

Direct-to-lens support for motors, LiDAR, and more

Mounting accessories directly to the lens keeps everything aligned and stable without the need to rely on rod systems that often introduce wobble. On longer lenses, this can make a noticeable difference. When needed, on larger lenses, you can also mount multiple motors at once for full control over focus, iris, and zoom.

With this in mind, the Simmod NATO ring offers multiple mounting points, with standard NATO rails, grooves, and threaded holes for attaching motors, LiDAR units, small monitors, smartphones, or wireless gear. A groove and threaded hole pattern also helps position a DJI LiDAR unit securely and prevents it from rotating during use. The NATO receiver is built directly into the ring, so no additional rail is required. It also includes 1/4″-20 and 3/8″-16 sockets for broader compatibility.

Compact builds and cage-free setups

The NATO ring can be used without a traditional cage or rod system, which helps to reduce the overall footprint of the rig, which could be especially useful when working handheld or on a gimbal. Cameras like the Sony VENICE 2 RIALTO Mini should benefit from this setup. With accessories mounted directly to the lens rather than the camera body, there’s less gear in the way, and swapping lenses or reconfiguring the setup is faster and more straightforward.

When used with mirrorless set-ups, the ring will simplify using lenses like the Blazar Remus anamorphic, for example, as the rig has a much smaller form factor. In addition, you can also mount a smartphone on top of the lens.

Simmod NATO ring – fixed mounting for faster setups

For crews working with multiple lenses, a Simmod NATO ring can be left mounted to each lens, eliminating the need to rebuild the rig every time. Each ring includes alignment marks on the NATO rails, making it easier to keep accessories consistently positioned across lenses. As the motors and accessories stay aligned, the switch between lenses can be done quickly.

Built for grip and stability

The NATO ring is machined from high-grade aluminum and clamps onto the lens using a rubber-lined insert that protects the surface. A knurled knob provides secure, tool-free tightening. According to Simmod, the lens mounts and detaches quickly. For heavier setups, threaded sockets can be used to connect the ring to a lens support bracket. This should help to distribute weight and reduce stress on the mount, especially useful with longer lenses or larger accessories. The secure clamp helps eliminate play or slipping, a detail that matters when precise motor alignment is needed.

Simmod NATO ring specs

• Mounting: 1x Lens Clamp, 1x NATO Rail Receiver, 2x Anti-Twist 1/4″-20 Threads, 2x Anti-Twist 3/8″-16 Threads
• Color: Black
• Material of Construction: Aluminum, Rubber
• Dimensions: 85 x 80 mm / 3.3 x 3.1 in.(Clamping Range)

Price and availability

The Simmod NATO Ring is available now, either as a single, clamp-on lens ring with NATO rail receiver for $149, or as a four-ring kit for $699. The kit includes a NANUK waterproof hard case with a custom foam insert that holds each ring separately.

Would a clamp-on accessory like this simplify your kit, or do you find traditional cages more versatile for your needs? Let us know in the comments.