2007Arms forum
Weight capacity and operational characteristics of older ActionCam single-action spring arm stabilizers
19 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.
What the thread found
- The older ActionCam arm with dual large springs accommodates camera loads between 28 and 73 pounds when used with the sled system.
- The arm features three spring tension settings: the first for lightweight cameras, middle setting for Beta-format cameras, and third setting closest to the springs for heavy 35mm film cameras.
- The arm performs best when operated in the middle booming range rather than at extreme high or low positions.
- Adjusting spring settings requires careful attention to small locking screws that prevent larger fasteners from loosening, and all load-bearing components need to remain finger-tight to prevent bending or damage.
- The spring resting points should never be in contact with stop screws unless those screws are fully tightened, as loose springs will bend the stops.
- Despite having limited vertical range compared to parallelogram arm designs, the single-spring arm design functions effectively in its operational sweet spot.
Depends on
- The original documentation was difficult to locate; weight specifications came from advertising materials rather than official manuals.
- Experience data reported involves specific operators and their particular configurations rather than manufacturer testing.
- The design was originally intended for cameras in the 8-12 kilogram range, making heavier modern cameras an extrapolation beyond original intent.
- Users report that booming to extreme high positions can cause the arm to lock at maximum extension.
- The arm exhibits some play in the mounting stage that becomes apparent during adjustment before final locking.