Easom Optics Top Handle

[jambredz]

So i was looking for a top handle for my CPM rig, because as much as i like my CPM rig the top handle just does not cut it for me. I've been through 3...so i was looking on Redrock and Easom optics. almost $200 on Redrock was a bit much but I would have paid it till i found out about Easom optics. Their own is $85. It just came awhile ago and i hooked it up to the rig and it feels very sturdy and well made. All metal except the ribber grip...nice low profile. I haven't used it really since it just came so after some shoots i'll see how it stands up. the CPM felt good at first also...but since this is all metal and not plastic i have more confidence it will hold up. Time will tell. Thanks to the members who responded to my PM's about the Easom Handle. So i'll report back

link to handle

http://shop.easom.com/product_info.php/products_id/36

edit: it also has one 1/4 20 threaded hole on each side. nice touch.

 

[Guest]

Have you had further experience with this handle? How is it stacking up? Can you post a pic of your rig with it? Thanks


I find having a top handle does wonders for making a dslr rig more wieldy.

 

[jambredz]

hey James...sorry im just seeing this. Would you still like a pic of the rig? The Handle is working out Great! super solid...i have literally loaded up my full rig (i probably wouldnt be ever using that in real world) and waved it around holding it by the handle. thats about 15lbs.

 

[jambredz]

some pics from my phone.

I have a CMP articulated arm attached to the handle for either my 7 inch manhattan monitor (to loop through with EVF) or for a Zoom h4n or whatever. Hope u can see something in all the mess. just took the pics quick.

 

[Guest]

Thanks for getting back! Looks great!

Even though the handle is low profile, looks like it will still be easier to grasp than anything else on the ring. I will consider this. I'll see if I can find a pic of an old rig setup I had a while back.


I especially like the EVF solution there. I have worked with external 5" monitors, but they have to stick out too far forward and messes the whole rig up. EVF is great for cinema, and keep the rig all nice and compact compare to straight LCD.

 

[jambredz]

yeh i was really trying to get that 7 inch monitor off the rig completely. 2 big for me and it threw the whole balance off making it tip to the side of the monitor. Now I use the 7 inch as a directors monitor and loop it through the EVF with a long hdmi cable if needs be. the Easom handle is "low profile" on my rig but since it can be added to any 15mm rod set up...if you have some sort of cage or something with rods above the camera then you can put it there. I just preferred it this way. Trust me...the handle is super solid. Nice price 2

 

[Guest]

No, I think I like the idea of a streamline low profile rig. I worked with a behemoth rig that had AntonB brick, dr680, full-size matte box, 2 mics with shock mounts and fuzzy cats, 5"LCD, and all, and it was awful. Awesome steady when I had a good centered posture, but heavy and awkward, not very grab and go. Difficult to get in and out of cars. Found myself switching to a shotgun rig as much as possible.

Off topic, but rig related. I cover all the logos on my gear when I do documentary or run and gun. I get less people asking me about my camera, and disturbing my work. You might think people would be more likely to ask if they couldn't see a brand, but in fact it keeps people who want to start up small talk away. Can't tell you how many f-ers come up and say "so uh, you use a "x-brand"..." But I've also literally been shooting with a Nikon, all logos uncovered and visible from a mile away, and still get people coming up to me and ask, "so uh, what kind of camera you using?" I smiled and said "Nikon". Makes me laugh. But when I am on assignment, I don't have time for that, so I cover the logos and 1/10th the people bother me. I think people are afraid of saying something stupid, and if they don't recognize your gear, they feel more awkward to approach you. Plus it isn't free advertising for manufacturers.