Identifying metal versus plastic gimbal rings in Steadicam Merlin equipment

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2012Steadi-Newbies forum

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

The original Merlin models with the signature feature came equipped with plastic rings inside the gimbal until around 2008, after which production switched to metal versions.
The gimbal ring type can be visually identified by examining the interior of the gimbal - plastic rings will be visible as black components, while metal versions feature ball bearings.
Merlin units without the signature marking are likely to have metal gimbals rather than the earlier plastic design.

Timeline estimate of 2008 for the transition from plastic to metal rings is approximate.
The visual identification method relies on being able to open or inspect the gimbal interior.
This information is specific to Steadicam Merlin models and may not apply to other gimbal systems.