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Weight management and rig selection for HVX camera with 35mm adapter on Steadicam

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

What the thread found

  • The Flyer rig can handle approximately 19-20 pounds with an HVX camera, 35mm adapter, and prime lenses, though the official rating is 15 pounds.
  • Front-heavy weight distribution from a 35mm adapter does not reduce the rig's weight capacity; the camera simply needs to be positioned further back on the dovetail plate to maintain balance.
  • The Flyer may require a longer dovetail or offset plate when using very large zoom lenses on a 35mm adapter to achieve proper balance.
  • Exceeding the Flyer's rated weight capacity risks warranty voiding and accelerated wear on bearings, arm, and gimbal components.
  • For rigs intended to consistently operate at 19-20 pounds, upgrading to a larger rig like the Clipper or Archer is preferable to pushing the Flyer beyond its design limits.
  • Camera selection should prioritize suitability for the specific production requirements rather than perceived aesthetic appeal, as format mismatches can lead to inefficient workflows and suboptimal results.

Depends on

  • The practical 20-pound limit for the Flyer is based on user experience rather than official specifications.
  • Balancing capability depends on the specific configuration of the 35mm adapter and lens combination.
  • User reports about alternative rigs like Glidecam V-25 and Artemis were sparse in this discussion.
  • The experience shared involved a music video shoot where the HVX with 35mm adapter proved inefficient for the specific lighting and time requirements of that production.

Parts

Dovetail Plate

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