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Comparing camera stabilizer arms for weight capacity and suitability for different shooting scenarios

21 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

What the thread found

  • The Steadyrig arm has a weight capacity of approximately 63 pounds while the G50 has a capacity of 50 pounds, with comparable pricing between the two models.
  • The G50 arm represents newer technology compared to the Steadyrig design.
  • A typical sled configuration with LCD monitor, battery, focus receiver, servo and transmitter weighs around 18 pounds, leaving approximately 32 pounds of payload capacity on a 50-pound arm.
  • Professional HD productions using cameras like the Sony HVW-750p with Pro 35 adapter, prime lens, Arri bridgeplate and mattebox can reach approximately 30 pounds in camera weight alone.
  • Film productions with older heavier camera systems frequently exceed the 50-pound weight limit, particularly when requiring additional batteries or DC-DC converters.
  • Newer lightweight cameras with video tops and steadicam-compatible configurations can fit more comfortably within a 50-pound arm capacity.
  • Operators without access to heavier equipment can manage weight-restricted assignments by renting or borrowing larger arms when necessary, or by connecting with other local operators willing to swap equipment.

Depends on

  • This discussion dates from 2005 and equipment specifications may no longer be current.
  • The G70 pricing mentioned was estimated at 15,000 to 20,000 dollars but never confirmed.
  • Payload testing was performed in practical field conditions but not formally documented as comprehensive testing.
  • Future usage scenarios and required camera packages are unknown to the decision-maker.
  • The adequacy of a 50-pound capacity depends entirely on the types of productions an operator will undertake.

Gear in this thread

G-70catalog

Same gear or parts

  1. 2023Performance and value assessment of Rever Steadicam stabilizer systemsGeneral Discussion
  2. 2023Hanging a Tiffen G50X arm on a docking mount pin without a harness; availability of longer arm posts.FacebookThe Steadicam Group
  3. 2023Backup and spare equipment for Steadicam® operators: priority list and budget considerationsFacebookSteadicam operators group
  4. 2022G-70 arm: eliminating bridge bumper impacts between upper and lower sections after tuningFacebookSteadicam operators group
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