Topic: What to do with a manfrotto superclamp?

[Brian Skalinder]

Thanks for that clarification..... I'm now trying to cancel my order for the mini arm extension and get the other one!

Not sure why?  The mini is just as secure, and has the benefit of variable rotation.  The other one is more limiting because it won't let you vary the rotation, except for every 60º.  Anyway...I prefer the mini.

[travelinbeat]

wouldn't the benefit of the hex help secure the extension?

[Brian Skalinder]

wouldn't the benefit of the hex help secure the extension?

The hex-head will help prevent rotation around the extension's long axis, yes.  The hex- and round-head are both equally secure IN the clamp.  The only question is whether the mini rotates along its long axis.  FWIW, I've never had a problem with the mini rotating on me.  Just need to tighten the set screw securely.  I think the infinitely variable rotation of the mini is well worth it.

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wouldn't the benefit of the hex help secure the extension?

The hex-head will help prevent rotation around the extension's long axis, yes.  The hex- and round-head are both equally secure IN the clamp.  The only question is whether the mini rotates along its long axis.  FWIW, I've never had a problem with the mini rotating on me.  Just need to tighten the set screw securely.  I think the infinitely variable rotation of the mini is well worth it.

If you go back and look at the pictures I posted, the mini-arm will have the same benefits and side-effects as my RA/stud combination. You just have to screw it on rather tight to ensure no rotation (which is quite possible), where as the hex stud you can snap it in, and screw it down and *know* it's not going to rotate. That said, you are more limited in your angles of use.

For the RA/stud combo you see, I've screwed it (forcefully and intentionally) over and over in the same spot so now if I'm careful when I get to where the screw touches the stud, it will align and correct itself since I've created a divot where the screw pressure is. The only worry comes if your going to have unbalanced weight on the end of it which will torque toward one direction and give it reason to rotate, and even then I've gotten off center with mine when weighted before with positive results. Just tighten it up good, it won't move if your careful about it.

[yug du nord]

If you're getting a right angle extension, get the mini-extension.  I got the full size hex at first....  then found a mini....  and now my full size hex is obsolete for the most part.  Mini is much more versatile and won't go anywhere if you tighten it good.  The full size works well in certain positions, but not all.  I can tell you that it sucks when you need a certain angle and can't achieve it.  Get the mini!

[travelinbeat]

Sounds like I'll stick with the mini after all!

Thanks for the wonderful insights and a super-focused thread, I think after all this discussion, photos, and linking, anyone will now be able to know exactly how to take their SuperClamp into full use!