CheesyCam Exclusive – DIY DSLR Cage / Stabilizer / Fig Rig

• • 132 Comments


Since the dawn of HD Video DSLR's there's been some random and weird stabilizers being made by so many different companies. One thing is for sure, they are out to capitalize and mark up equipment from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Not to say they aren't functional. In fact many of these new DSLR cages and Fig Rig style stabilizers work well for these small cameras. You know me though, there's gotta be a way to make something cheaper, just as functional, and still look damn good.

Well i've been looking at a couple of different designs, and thought about what I needed from each one of the stabilizers above. First, I wanted a handle. Handles are a great way to get some really low shots. Secondly, my hands needed to be spaced apart. It's proven that spacing your hands further from the camera can really help stabilize your footage, even helps when walking. Third, I needed something to mount extra gear like a DSLR Cage. Finally, stay away from PVC. PVC is great, but doesn't give it that professional look or feel. After careful consideration and a trip to Home Depot, here's the latest DIY Camera Stabilizer from Cheesycam.com.

My goal was to merge a couple of different products and functionality into a very very Cheap DIY DSLR Stabilizer with Cage function. Another goal was to step up my game and make it look a bit more techy and something not so 'DIY'. I think I did well this time around for approximately $30.00. Actually it can come down much cheaper if I could find a shorter rail and cheaper handlebar grips. Unfortunately I wasn't shopping for a deal, I had this idea stuck in my head that needed to get out. It's a bit of a rush job, but I really wanted to share it with the community. I'll go back and refine it later with some hot shoe adapters and a quick release plate.

I have a ton of photos, and a parts list i'll put together later if anyone is interested. The video should explain more about what you need and how I put it together. The hardest part was cutting this rail. I have more information about this rail in my photo gallery, I was able to take a picture of the Price tag / Description from my iPhone. After cutting the rail, I was able to purchase everything for straight bolt on without any further modifications needed.

Here's a real basic parts list:

  • 2 Hex Bolts (6" long 3/8 size)
  • 2 carriage bolts (6" long 3/8 size) Use these for the top, they give you nice finished look
  • 2 3/8" coupler nuts
  • 2 - 1/2 X 12" pipe rods
  • 1 - 1/2 X 10" pipe rod
  • Bike handle grips
  • Black flat matte paint
  • 1 - 8-10 ft strut channel bar

    • Enjoy the DIY video on how I made it (below).

    Update: Really good questions coming in, i'll try to answer a few.
    Reader: Have you thought about off setting the camera so that with the lens it's balanced front to back?
    CheeseyCam: Yes, this is where the quick release plate comes in. I decided on the Monfrotto 357 (found here) to give me that lateral as well as something to quickly move from the DIY cage to my 701HDV Fluid head. I wanted the camera more forward originally so that it is actually balanced with the handle (above). For shots that require using the Handle, it's much more balanced being slightly forward. Hopefully the Monfrotto 357 will help by sliding the camera either foward or back depending on what shot is being taken.

    Monfrotto Quick Release 357, click image

    Reader: If you were to use electrical conduit for you end pieces it might make your rig lighter.
    Cheesycam: Yes, I wanted to get something as close to 'off the shelf' as possible. I may try Conduit on the sides, but the top Handle I feel will work better if it remained as a Steel pipe. Conduit normally comes in super long lengths and requires additional cutting. It is lighter, and cheaper, just a little more time consuming though with the cutting. For information on the HotShoe mounts I plan on using, check out this article http://cheesycam.com/?p=723

    Ok well it's getting late, i'm tired and i'll get to showing it off more later. Leave some comments, ask some questions, and please don't forget to share, twitter, facebook, digg, etc. (use the icons below).

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    132 thoughts on “CheesyCam Exclusive – DIY DSLR Cage / Stabilizer / Fig Rig”

    1. Jasen

      This is a really cool DIY! Looks amazing! The Galvanised pipe is called Unistrut- Used for hanging pipes with clips ect... For the side of the frame you could also use thick 20mm pressure pipe i guess for a light travel option but the galv gives that strength! Definitely giving this one a go

    3. Nick

      I saw this design the other day, and thought that it was awesome. I've just finished putting it together, but was wondering if there was any way to add some sort of extension to either go over your shoulder or a pad to press against your shoulder, kind of like the shoulder support for the Opteka CXS-100. Any ideas?

    4. Carlos

      Congrats on a very practical, thoughtful and inexpensive design!

      Some suggestions that I put on my Figrig clone that I built in 2007.

      1) Try using two separated levels made off clear acrylic plastic, 1/2" thick or so. On the upper one you put the quick-release camera base. On the lower one you put a small mixer (e.g.: Sound Devices) and a digital recorder (e.g.: Zoom).

      2) Add a short piece on the lower bar, in X with it, so you can place or rest the whole rig when you are not using it. Even when shooting you may want to lean or rest on some surface and that will be handy.

      I'm not so sure I support your selection of steel parts for the bars and handles, as they are rather heavy. Painted pvc can look quite good too.

    5. Shawn

      This is an awesome project and just what I was looking for. I see a lot of people asking if you would build them.... I am building 4 per Strut channel rail by doing 2 16inch Rigs and 2 14inch rigs. There is a good chance I will sell these if enough people are interested ....

    6. Raymond

      Thanks for the parts list plus SKU numbers, that was really helpful, JJ.

      I was just wondering what you put on the bottom rail to hold your camera? Would you just get the macro rail you linked and screw that on, or is there another piece I should get? I'm almost done with my rig, just wondering what the heck I'm supposed to attach the camera with, and where I can buy one that is economically sound.

      Thank you for the amazing work you put on this blog!

    7. JJ

      Just built this in about 3 min. Super simple and extremely sturdy. For anyone looking for a complete parts list minus the conduit, here's a transcribe of my Home Depot receipt:

      030699191369 - 3/8" rod coupling nut (2 pack)

      019442150969 - 1/2"x12" black nipple pipe (side pipes)

      019442150938 - 1/2"x10" black nipple pipe (handle)

      hex bolt BMB - 2 3/8"x6"

      carriage bolt BOA - 2 3/8"x6"

      2 FENDER washers - 3/8" (for the bottom)

      2 FENDER washers - 1/2" (to fit around the square of the carriage bolts)

      To anyone having issues with the coupler nuts fitting in the pipe, they will do it, you have to hammer them in. They will fit very snug once you do and be a lot more stable then the 1/4".

    9. Vincent

      why not make this so you can mount it as-is on a tripod? just quick release and you dont have to move the camera itself. also makes it easier to change lenses i guess.

      also, would you think the handle works better at the front than facing backwards?

    10. pancho

      Just saw this yesterday and built/painted it already. Excellent rig and detailed instructions. THANKS.

    12. Gynna

      WOW, I just found this blog and I am amazed with you creativity. I cannot wait until to tomorrow to go and get the pieces to start putting mine together. I was just wondering, what pieces did you use to get your camera on the rail?
      Thanks a lot and keep up the good work!

    14. Bob0mb

      I had the same problem the previous Bob had the 3/8 coupling nuts just will not go in the pipe. maybe the nipple at the end is slightly smaller than the ones you've purchased previously.

    18.

      I was thinking about slapping one of these together today for a wedding I will be shooting tomorrow night...Seems like a way better idea and formulated setup then the pvc pipe one, and risk it looking very amateur at a wedding. Thanks for the tip 😉

    19. Austin

      Awesome tutorial, just about done with mine just need to tidy things up and paint it...problem is I'm stuck with a solution for mounting my camera onto it. I have a few cheap tripods laying around the house, and managed to take off the part where the quick release plate goes in on one of them. any suggestions?

    21. Dylan

      Hey man, great rig, I built myself one last weekend.

      However, the 3/8 coupling nuts I got from Home Depot didn't fit inside the steel nipples, so I had to switch to 1/4 bolts and couplers.

      Just a heads up.

    22. Emm

       Post author

      @Austin - Sand and clean before you paint. Most metals have a layer of oil when stored on shelves to prevent them from rusting and such. Sand it down, clean it with some type of oil remover like Paint thinner (in well ventilated area). Paint before you assemble. Just make sure you paint it well. Spray one very thin coat and let dry. Spray another coat and let dry. Do this over and over until you have everything covered. Don't rush it. Use good paint too.

    23. Austin

      Okay thanks, had me scared there for a moment XD One last question if you don't mind answering. Would it be better to sand it then paint it and then assemble or sand it, assemble, then paint? Didn't know if it makes a difference. Thanks again!

    26. Emm

       Post author

      @Austin - I think actual Bike Handles are pretty standard. It's a tight stretch over the 1" 1/2" pipes, so use hairspray or dishwashing soap to slide it in place. Once it's dried it's pretty stuck.

    27. Austin

      Just got to go pick up some bike handles (or order some offline as I might go for some blue or green ones for a personal touch) But is there a certain size handles I am looking for?

    30. Emm

       Post author

      @trehug - Thanks, I wanted to tackle the project in a manner I felt other people could do it too without investing in tools and be able to tackle something like this in an apartment. Anyone could tackle this project with a simple hacksaw.

    31. trehug

      - just wanted to recommend to you, the best way to cut steel bars and generally steel things is to use an angle grinder with a metal blade on it.

      Angle grinders can be picked up (with a general purpose blade on) for like $20, and they are useful all over the place...just sayin - they are a *really* useful tool

    33. Austin

      May I ask why you put the top handle facing outwards? I would think the top handle would be better facing the other direction? Or is it really just personal opinion? Rig looks great and I plan on making one soon!

    36.

      Video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhUM02fZUGs I took CheesyCam's awesome project and modified it a bit with parts I had on hand. The main change is the top & bottom rail is an aluminum miter track (for woodworking jigs) that I used from a failed DIY slider project I'd made. It's only $17 for the 32" model (which you'd cut in half for the cage) and it's very light and strong, and gives a sliding adjustment to anything you mount on it. https://bit.ly/fD3yLN I also put a couple of swing-out feet from aluminum U-channel (used for plywood edging) so I can set the rig down with stability. My top handle is a square piece of aluminum, since I had a lot of that on-hand. Fun project!

    38. Fhilipk

      Love this rig. have you made any changes to it since you made it last year? Any helpful hints? Also how would I get a parts list?

      Thanks

      Phil.

    39.

      I've found that the camera is fairly balanced without a quick release.

      Those quick releases can be a little pricey. My solution for this was super cheap, and it's still fairly quick (though, obviously, not quite as speedy as a quick release mount).

      I simply got a bolt with a thumb screw end, used some extra nuts and washers, and put it through one of the holes on the bottom rail. Works like a charm and cost less than $2.

      Also, if you're looking for width, I just counted 10 holes in the rail, and cut right down the middle between the 10th and 11th holes. Nice and wide, but not too much. Then attach the set screw through the hole just left of center, and it should be pretty balanced with the camera in place.

    40. Pingback:

      DIY DSLR Conduit Cage » CheesyCam

    41. Eric

      put a plate extending from the rig that supports the camera and attach the quick release to that so you can balance it.

      just a thought let me know what you think

    43. steve

      Whats the measurements of the metal frame, how wide?

      Do you have a full list of the parts you used to give us some ideas.

    44. Racer

      I dont know why companys cannot build affordable rigs like these. They would make a nice little earning even if they charged 50% more than what it costs them.

      The CowboyStudio is a great example, may we see more product like those.. Affordable and do the job just fine 🙂

    49. Wayne

      Just in case any Canadians in Ontario (like me) are checking out this rig... The Home Depots here don't stock Superstrut metal framing channel. When you ask them about it, they will look at you like you're a moron. I went to Brafasco (also Ontario) to get some (they have it) but found some really nice aluminum channel with no holes (super light 10feet for $22), so I cut it down and drilled out my own holes where I needed them.

    51.

      I just found your blog & am totally in love!

      I will be checking as much stuff as I can over the weekend 🙂

      Thank you so much for sharing this info, you are a godsend!

      ~Vered

    52.

      Hey that looks great!

      I want to make one but just wondering if you can tell us where you found the hot-shoe adapters?

      Thanks!

    54. Deepak

      Well I meant your version. What's the weight? Just curious since I was looking at Jarrod's config as well. Thanks!

    55. Emm

       Post author

      Design is simple, so you can make it out of lighter stuff. PVC or aluminum are good. I just wanted something that looked good on set too when working with a client. If you just want stabilization, PVC is great too.

    59. Pingback:

      DSLR Cage / Fig Rig – BTS Footage » CheesyCam

    64.

      Hey guys, I'm from the UK and cannot find the strut channel anywhere.

      Has anybody in europe come across this stuff or at least knows what its called?
      Same thing with the cheeseplate too!!

    65.

      This is great. I think I will try this over the weekend. I am really excited. Thanks for the tutorial, really. Any Spec. by any chance.

      Thanks Again.

    66.

      This is just the right DIY rig i was looking for. i actually bought must of the stuff except i couldn't find the metal framing any where in the Homedepot (miami,FL) most of the people working (which u can barely find ) have never seen anything like it. I'm going to try ACE or another homedepot further , also thanks Tate Nations for all the SKU # might help me find it tomorrow.

      Awesome work , i just added you to my reader.

      Keep up the good work.

    67. Peter Dilauro

      I have a great solution for the handle cushions...You can look up "Fishing Rod Components" or "Rod Building". There you will find Fishing Rod Cushions that are made for the handles of the rods. They can be easily and permanently installed on the rig with 5 minute epoxy, also avaialble at the same suppliers. It comes in black to match the rig and can be cut to any length desired.

    70. Pingback:

      Red DSLR Cage Fig Rig Stabilizer » CheesyCam

    72. Emm

       Post author

      Haha, sorry I don't have time right now. Looks like there are other DIY'ers you can ask.

    73. Smiley

      If I pay you $50 will you make me one please!!!!
      I'm about to get the canon 5d in a few more weeks and I would love to have this for the camera for better shots and etc.

      please email and let me know!

    75.

      You could probably make this into a shoulder mount rig too. I actually bought all the stuff today and I'm gonna try to make this one but maybe add a shoulder mount. 🙂

    78. Jacob

      I am almost done with mine! Just got my Monfrotto Quick Release 357 in and finishing up the paint job! I will post a link with picks on my flickr once I am finished. I cant wait to get my light and mic soon.

    79. Jeff MacIntyre

      Awesome DIY Project! I made a couple of mods based on other brilliant posters. My total cost was $70...this included paint and saw blades.

      Recommendations:

      1. Reciprocating Saw! This will save a ton o' time and sore arms. I couldn't imagine grinding away with a little hack saw. Those of you who did are braver than me!

      2. Use steel wool to sand your rig before painting. Use a black primer first and then spray it with a flat black.

      3. Drill holes for handle bolts and accessory mounts. It looks cleaner and gives you more flexibility in placement of shoe mounts.

      4. 10" PVC pipe for side handles. 8" Steel for the top handle.

      5. Instead of bike grips for the handles, I used self sealing foam pipe insulation. This was super easy and inexpensive. Sure, it will eventually rip...no worries, cut off another piece and stick it on.

      6. Tripod Mounting Plate Mod. I used someone's idea of mod-ing a simple .61 cent fence bracket into a raised plate mount. Worked brilliantly!

      7. Future Mod: I'd like to attach another tripod plate to the underside of the bottom rail so I can easily slide the entire rig onto a tripod, when needed.

      Check it out here:

      https://www.flickr.com/photos/[email protected]/sets/72157624705084724/with/4883547692/

      This thing rocks! Good luck in your DIY Adventures.

    82. Mark

      Built mine with similar parts here in Germany.

      37 Euro but much better than the prices for pre-made items.

      Since we don't have the strut that you have used over here in Germany I just used "Lochblech" which is just a metal railing with holes. These come in 1 meter lengths, so I just cut in two and filed down the edges. The idea with complete threaded rods was also an idea I was going to use but ended up using the coupling method as well. The long bolts I used aren't threaded completely and come in 140mm 160mm and 200mm lengths. I used 4 160mm bolts and cut them down to size (the 140mm bolts were sold out). Bought all my supplies at OBI. Tip - place a nut towards the very begining of the bolt where the threads start, then add the coupler this will prevent the coupler from coming unscrewed as a few have mentioned.

      The handle bar grips were also quite expensive at 7 Euros. Its pretty obvious that we are paying almost double what you pay in the US for basically the same items which really sucks to say the least. The height of the lochblech is quite high but I don't think this will be too much of a problem. The main problem is mounting a camera mount to the rig and I am still not sure how I will do this. I have some spare 1/4 bolts which i can use for a temporary solution. All in all though this thing was really easy to do. I will place a photo of the rig on flickr if anyone is interested just search for quibb on flickr. Now i need to purchase all the accessories to mount next to my 7d on this rig.

      Thanks! Super idea as usual!!

    84. John

      Jeeze, everyone around Lawrence Kansas must read your blog because all the 10 ga channel was gone at Home Depot. Had to get the bigger 12 ga stuff which is far more robust than needed.

    86. Paul

      Hi, you should seriously consider creating rigs.. im sure there will be many people interested! i am as well 😉

    87. Emm

       Post author

      Normally with these types of moving stabilizers you set the focus to infinity. If you want to do Depth Of Field, you maintain a specific distance from the subject you follow.

    88. Travis W

      What is everyone doing for focus? It looks like you can't hold that and focus at the same time. Seems like you'd have to custom build the focus puller.

    89.

      In case anyone was wondering, here are some the common names for the parts in this tutorial's rig:

      Metal framing: Superstrut metal framing channel
      Home Depot SKU:  455467

      Handles: Black Steel Nipple
      Home Depot SKU: 206248

      Clamp: Halex Wire Ground Clamp
      Home Depot SKU: 206248

      Hope this helps.

    90. Jeremy

      Finally had the time to put this thing together.

      My build: https://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4788970864_f680d1e56e_b.jpg

      Cost me about $45 all in. Overall, I'm pretty happy with how it turned out. I hand-cut the rail with a hacksaw, and it wasn't bad at all. Took maybe 3 minutes each piece.

      I wasn't happy with the flat black Krylon I used. I may do a new coat with Rustoleum, because the paint is coming off a little (even though I did sand my stuff before painting). If I had to do it over again, I'd do a little more research on my paint. Anyone have any recommendations.

      I did have a unique solution for the third grip, since nobody I know sells bike grips in threes. Rather than spend an extra 7.50 on another set of bike grips, I bought a 2.70 Wilson tennis grip and wrapped it around the handle.

      I have a ton of rail left over, so I might try another build and make it even better. Oh, and the pipe clamps are with the conduits at Home Depot. They're actually right next to where you buy the rail.

    92. dhoag

      What settings were you using to shoot the video? Looks like it was in focus throughout the video.

      Thanks

    93.

      Could you post a list of parts or email me updated parts list. Going to build one this weekend with a photog buddy of mine.

    94. admin

       Post author

      You can use a variety of shoe adapters. Check the article again, I mention which shoe adapters to use. Thanks.

    96. Michael Berry

      Just built mine today. Cost me $25 and took about 15 minutes to assemble. I wanted to see if I could build one using off-the-shelf parts and no cutting or drilling, so I went to Home Depot to buy the parts and it's apparently possible. It took me longer to shop than to assemble the rig. The best part is that it's already black so there's no painting involved either. I'll post photos and video soon as well as a parts list. It's amazing how much stability it brings to handheld shots. Thanks for your inspiration!

    97. Joe

      Thanks. Just built mine and am waiting for my first set of test footage to transfer. Got to say though that holding this thing is a real upper body workout.

    100. Mike

      My plan is to build one by this weekend so i can use it for next video project that due very soon. And my problem is that i dont know how to attach the camera to the rig?? Instead of using 357 Pro Quick Release, can you just use 501PL Sliding Quick Release Plate???? Do u need to install the adapter to use the quick releasee? Can it be replace with just any plate like manfrotto 200PL-14 Rectangular Quick Release Plate, or can i just use straight screw to attch it??

    102. Pingback:

    103. So I created my own version of this. Cost a bit more than $30 with the handlebar grips and going back and forth to Home Depot and the local hardware store, but I came up with a similar rig with a few alterations.

      1. Rather than using the couplet (coupling?) to connect 2 bolts inside of the pipe I used a 1/4 inch threaded rod and created my own bolt by putting washers, lock washers and nuts on either side. You can cut it down to size (easy compared to cutting the strut) and even leave an inch of the rod sticking out to screw things into. I found the couplet difficult to connect inside of the pipe and I was concerned that it might unscrew itself over time.

      2. To mount a quick release plate you need to add something to separate the mount from the rig to give the release lever room to move. I found a piece of hardware in the lumber section (where the joist hangers are) called a fence bracket (something like that) this gives just enough room to mount the plate to the bar with space to move the lever. You will need to drill a 3/8 and 1/4 inch holes so you can put a bolt through the bar and plate and screw into the quick release plate.

      3. A drill is nice because then you can put the vertical bars through 1/4 hole rather than slots...This makes it a bit more sturdy and it is easy to get everything square.

      4. I created a smaller version 9inch vertical that works well and I just used a gate handle at the top. BTW the pipe clamp that cheesycam used at the top is found in the electrical section.

      5. I bought some conduit to try, but if you don't have the tools to get a nice smooth cut it isn't worth it for the vertical poles because they need to be exact for the rig to be square. I think conduit would be fine for the top handle as it doesn't need to be a smooth cut.

      6. To everyone asking others to make one of these for you...from my experience you should be willing to shell out a lot more than $30 cuz this bad boy doesn't build itself.

      I will submit a link to what I did as soon as I have it uploaded.

    104. Dan

      I, too, would love to buy this rig already built.

      Please let those of us who are willing to pay you for materials and your time to get a completed fig/rig as shown.

      Dan

    105. Pingback:

      BTS ‘Disorient’ Short Flick » CheesyCam

    106. Erin

      This is great! My only issue is that I'm in NYC and without the tools or the space to cut down the steel bar. I too would be interested in purchasing a pre-made rig from you for $50 if you're interested.

    107. chuckarama

      I'll be building one this weekend. If you haven't seen it before, this guy (https://vimeo.com/11435910) has the best DIY follow-focus I have seen ANYWHERE. It will EASILY adapt to your Fig Rig. I intend to try it on mine as I build it out. With an extra wide washer at the bottom of the handle, you can create a nice erase surface for drawing focus lines on as well. Using the same setup, the opposite handle could be used to adjust zoom. I can see the handles may need a locking mechanism as well, for finely tuned and locked off shots.

    108. jane s

      thanks for sharing this briliant persistance. You sure don t take things for granted. Wonderful! So inspiring. Will try to build mine next week.

    110. Pingback:

    111. ricky

      i need a cage that has a handle parallel to the floor on top of the camera , so could record more action video like skateboarding or biking ... any one know where could find one ????

    112. mike d

      I was wondering if I paid you $50, would you build me one? I really have no technical skill at this kind of stuff. I have a canon t2i that I just bought and would love a rig like this for it.

    113. admin

       Post author

      Hi Jeff, check where they sell Conduit pipes. I think this is used for mounting those conduit pipes. I managed to spray mine without peeling, but I did give it a solid wash with Thinner to remove any oils. Before painting any item it should be cleaned or wiped down with some type of paint thinner. Good luck on your build, and show us what you got when you're done! Thanks.

    114.

      I started building mine today and found everything I needed but I can't find the clamp for the top handle! BTW for anyone building this make sure you spray primer on everything before you paint it black or else the paint will peel off.

    117. Pingback:

      Test: DIY DSLR Cage / Fig Rig / Stabilizer » CheesyCam

    118. admin

       Post author

      Added a photo to the gallery. Looks exactly at 16". I just eyeballed it and used the slots as my measurement. I wanted it to look symetrical from side to side and mounted the handle in the middle. Thanks for reading, make sure to share your build when you have it done!

    120. rob

      So do you have a quick release on the rig to attache the camera and then another underneath to attach to a tripod? and how do you attach the cold shoes? Then I am all set!

    122. Sean Brown

      Hey,
      Can I have a list of parts so I can go to Home Depot and buy it all. This is a great post!

    123. admin

       Post author

      Thanks Phil, great blog. I just noticed how well my DIY blended in with the other rigs available. Even compared to the Indie Square, it looks much more professional. Ha! The Indie square alone runs $129.00 compared to the Cheesycam Rig at $25.00 dollars.

    125. admin

       Post author

      Not sure I can visualize the whole thing, but try it out and let me know how it goes. If you have something online showing it, I can post it in the blog and share it with others. Thanks, and good luck on the DIY sounds interesting.

    126. Gerry

      I was at the home despot today and I think I found the happy medium for the handles. For something light and precut what about the PVC fittings that they use for sprinkler systems. They are cheap, look just like what you used, and come in a variety of lengths.

      I've been sketching out a design for a similar rig, but I'm going to try adding a few things.

      I'm thinking it might be nice to have the ability to attach two padded arms coming off the corners so that the rig could rest on the operators shoulders. In this case I would also add a handle in the center at the bottom for when the shoulder supports were in use.

      For the handle I thought this https://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&Item=120507644712&Category=30092
      might work well. It could be a handle, but it could also be a waist support if you want to use the side handles. (ala your monopod rig) I was also thinking that a camera strap could be used between the two shoulder support arms so that when not in use the user could rest the rig around their neck.

      Haven't done it yet. Still working it out on paper.

      I let you know when I actually do it...

    128. admin

       Post author

      Yeah, I even took a photo of the price tag on that rail. $15.00 dollars can make 3 of these things!

      The rest is just plain bolts and pipes. You can probably get cheaper piping and cut it down, I was just looking for something quick and off the shelf. I'm sure i'll revise it a bit.

    129. Jeff

      Awesome ! I might have to try this out. I was blown away when you said the price you paid for all of it, that puts it definitely within reach for a lot of people. Looks pretty professional, very nice job. Thanks for sharing!

    130. Gerry

      Looks good. A couple of mod questions... Have you thought about off setting the camera so that with the lens it's balanced front to back? If you were to use electrical conduit for you end pieces it might make your rig lighter. How much does it weigh without the camera mounted on it.

      Nice job. Love the site.

    131.

      Genius! I just bought on of the Jag rigs...it's ok. But then I went and bought another T2i...so I was thinking of getting another rig. This couldn't have been timed better! Thanks for all the work you do. I check your site daily for inspiration and cool toys. What can I say, I'm a junkie with no budget!

      Thanks again.

    132. rob

      Awesome! such a great rig. I love this blog. Best I have ever found, especially with your consistency. Somethings you have to spend money on like a Zoom h4n, but this was the last thing i have been contemplating, the rig itself and you have just given me the answer. Can't wait to send you a video of my finished T2i rig. Thanks for the inspiration and how-to along the way.

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