Stands for overheads

R

rob norton

Veteran
I'm looking to add an 8x8 overhead frame/rags, then eventually a 12x12. I know there are great DIY projects for butterflies/overheads but I'd like to buy once and be able to rely on the equipment, particularly when larger pieces are involved and safety is an issue.

At around 4:00 of this video, I'm pretty sure they're using a Medium Overhead Roller Stand.

Are these the best option for 8x8 overheads and could they be used with 12x12s, or do they need even bigger stands?

I spoke to a Matthews rep a while ago, and he said the Snap-A-Part Heavy Duty Frame is most suitable when outdoors - is it best to go with this versus anything else?

Thanks for the help.
 
The snap a part is nice, but if you have the means of transporting it, a normal frame is a lot cheaper. Some 8' or 12' square aluminum tubing with corners and ears and you're all set. Rollers on an 8- or 12-by is nice, but I've also used regular combo stands.
 
I just use Triple-Riser Combos with my 12x12s and 8x8, and add wheels when it's worth the bother. Works a treat and gives you stands that are more versatile than stand-alone overhead stands.
 
Thank you for your responses.

Dave, I don't see any frames on CG's site. Is it something they have but don't list?

How important are wheels/casters for 8x8s? I have a van for transportation and am fine with having dedicated stands.

Would the Medium Overhead Rollers be appropriate for 12x12s too?

Michael, I've heard great things about Kupo products. Do you think they'll stand the test of time i.e. decades?
 
rob norton said:
Michael, I've heard great things about Kupo products. Do you think they'll stand the test of time i.e. decades?
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I've yet to own any of their stands, but at some point I'll get one of those combos and see what I think...

I do have a few of their "big handle" grip heads and those are freaking dynamite (I think they supply the "impact" brand that B&H uses as a house brand? not sure though.) Unless you're in a really tight spot, that big-ass handle is killer.
 
As far as stands go, if you are not in a huge hurry, I would scout on ebay for used combo/junior stands and the like. If you have the patience you can find deals on the good stuff.
 
Good idea - I'll definitely check for used equipment.

Although shipping to Australia is expensive regardless and I'm after long term durability so don't mind paying more for a sure thing.
 
rob norton said:
Michael, I've heard great things about Kupo products. Do you think they'll stand the test of time i.e. decades?
Click to expand...

Rob, the Kupo stands are terrific. Best build quality I've seen shy of the Avenger gear (and better designed than anything else out there at the moment). I just went through the painfully expensive process of buying four Matthews Combos, only to discover that the length specified online was 20cm shorter than the stands actually were, which forced me to sell them at a hefty loss and replace them with Kupo triple-risers because they were the only ones that would fit in my ute.

I'm really happy with the decision. The Kupos are a treat, go up to 14', have a baby pin that can be locked at 90 degrees (let's you mount a light in the junior pin and your diffusion off a grip head attached to the baby pin), they're also built like a brick s*%thouse. I got mine from Mick's Grip up in Brisbane (the local distributor). They're $400 a pop, but that's as cheap as you'll get a triple-riser down here anyway, and again, highly recommended.

They also have these amazing quick-setup c-stands which will blow your mind.
 
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