Malcolm Stewart
Well-known member
For many years I've owned and used a Manfrotto Long Lens Monopod Bracket, model 393.
https://www.manfrotto.co.uk/long-lens-monopod-bracket
It's supported several of Canon's big white lenses for me, and the only drawback I've encountered is its bulk, and that when using my EF 500 F/4 L IS, I have the lens-bracket as shown in Manfrotto's publicity, but when using my EF 300 F/2.8L IS the balance is better with the lens-bracket hanging down. The lens plate is quite long, and I've never had a problem adequately balancing the set-up using light-weight camera bodies (Eos 600D), nor when using a 7D MkII or 1D MkIV, with or without lens extenders. On the 393 it's easy to control the bearing tightness. However, what isn't provided on the 393 is fine vertical adjustment to allow more precise positioning of the CoG on the rotation axis.
So, I've now ordered one of the cheaper ebay gimbal offerings and I've wondered if there are points other members would like me to address when it arrives in the next day or two. I shall be carrying out some basic tests before allowing it to support any long lens and body. I'm fully aware from comments on Amazon that some examples of the type have been poorly finished, lacking lubrication, poor bearings etc.
https://www.manfrotto.co.uk/long-lens-monopod-bracket
It's supported several of Canon's big white lenses for me, and the only drawback I've encountered is its bulk, and that when using my EF 500 F/4 L IS, I have the lens-bracket as shown in Manfrotto's publicity, but when using my EF 300 F/2.8L IS the balance is better with the lens-bracket hanging down. The lens plate is quite long, and I've never had a problem adequately balancing the set-up using light-weight camera bodies (Eos 600D), nor when using a 7D MkII or 1D MkIV, with or without lens extenders. On the 393 it's easy to control the bearing tightness. However, what isn't provided on the 393 is fine vertical adjustment to allow more precise positioning of the CoG on the rotation axis.
So, I've now ordered one of the cheaper ebay gimbal offerings and I've wondered if there are points other members would like me to address when it arrives in the next day or two. I shall be carrying out some basic tests before allowing it to support any long lens and body. I'm fully aware from comments on Amazon that some examples of the type have been poorly finished, lacking lubrication, poor bearings etc.