Using a jib arm without expensive tripod? Weight bearing discrepancy on BH?

H

hatsoff2halford

Well-known member
Hey everyone, I own this http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produ...o_501HDV_546B_501HDV_Head_w_546B_2_Stage.html

I am looking to attach a Cobra II jib to it, but the weight of the cobra crane is 26lbs.

On BH for my tripod is says the load capacity is 13lbs, but then at the bottom it says the legs can hold 44lbs. Is the 13lbs referring to the 501 head?

How bad of an idea is it to overload a tripod?

I can't necessarily afford a 1000 tripod right now, so what's another option for a jib arm?

Thanks again
 
hatsoff2halford said:
On BH for my tripod is says the load capacity is 13lbs, but then at the bottom it says the legs can hold 44lbs. Is the 13lbs referring to the 501 head?
Click to expand...

Correct - the legs are rated for 44lbs, but the head is only rated for 13lbs.
If you remove the head and attach the jib directly to the legs then you should be okay (assuming your camera rig doesn't weigh more than 18lbs).
I would not put the jib directly on that 501HDV head. That's an accident waiting to happen.

How bad of an idea is it to overload a tripod?
Click to expand...
I would say somewhere between 'very bad' and 'very very bad'
:)

The last thing you want is your tripod collapsing and hurting someone (or your gear) as it drops to the ground.
Trust me, it happens.
 
Thanks for the response! I actually decided to go with the Proam DVC200 crane. They offer a 360 fluid pan attachment if your tripod head can't support the weight, so I might just use that. My rig will only be the AF100+FF and whatever lens, definitely not over 18lbs.

Has anyone used the DVC200? I know it's not the best, but it's something to start out with, and that's all I need at this point! But, I'm still not sure how I'll control the focus on manual lenses while using a jib.
 
I would avoid that jib if it were me, but If you do purchase it be aware that it's max camera payload is 8 lb.
Also don't forget to factor in the counter weights into your max weight equation. The longer the jib, the more weight it will take to balance your camera.
I have a jib setup with an AF100 that I routinely run near 50 lb. of counter weight.

All the Best!

Dave
 
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