This shutter comes in a number of different shapes - oval, rectangular and rectangular with rounded ends - and with different release mechanisms.

Variations

Two draw strings hang from each side of the cross bar to which the blades are connected. Each string is pulled alternately to release the shutter. Only found on early oval models.

A pneumatic release cylinder is attached to one end of the cross bar. On pressing a rubber bulb the piston moves up and draws the blades across the lens opening. At the furthest point of travel one blade is held by a spring. The piston has to be manually returned.

A spring and trigger arrangement is used to release the shutter. Found on early oval models.

An 'everset' model with iris diaphragm was introduced in the late 1890s.

Some late versions are in aluminium. A stereo model was produced.

The Sands shutter works as either a variable speed instantaneous shutter at full aperture or as a variable diaphragm with the shutter set to B and the lens cap used to control the length of the exposure. The shutter was for use between the lens, flanges were fitted each side of the shutter to fit the lens groups (assuming a doublet was used).