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Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit

  • Price: $154.49
  • Mail In Rebate -$45.00 (see details)
    offer ends JUN 15 '13
  • Price after Rebate: $109.49
  • B&H # MA143
  • Mfr# 143

Product Highlights

  • Consists of: Magic Arm, Camera Platform, Super Clamp & Backlite Base

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The Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit is designed to hold a light fixture or camera in place, in a variety of situations. The heart of the kit is the Magic Arm -- an elbow arm, with sure locking lever control at the pivot. The removable camera mount pans and locks, and has a standard 1/4-20" thread mount. With the camera mount removed, it will accept any light fixture up to 6.6 lbs that has a baby (5/8") receptor.

The Magic Arm is modular -- Stand it on the floor or a table with the included Backlite base.
The Magic Arm is modular -- Lock it into the included Super Clamp, on a pipe or shelf from 1/2 - 2" in diameter or thickness.
Capacity 6.6 lbs (3 kg)
Weight 3 lbs (1.4 kg)
Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit
  • Magic Arm (143N)
  • Super Clamp (2915)
  • Backlite Base (3095)
  • Camera Bracket (143BKT)
  • REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

    by PowerReviews
    Manfrotto143 Magic Arm Kit
     
    4.7

    (based on 79 reviews)

    Ratings Distribution

    • 5 Stars

       

      (61)

    • 4 Stars

       

      (15)

    • 3 Stars

       

      (1)

    • 2 Stars

       

      (1)

    • 1 Stars

       

      (1)

    97%

    of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

    Pros

    • Reliable (46)
    • Easy to set up (36)
    • Lightweight (26)
    • Durable (21)
    • Consistent (20)

    Cons

    • Heavy (6)

    Best Uses

    • Photography (35)
    • Portraits (20)
    • Strobe lighting (18)
    • Artificial lighting (17)
    • Weddings (10)
      • Reviewer Profile:
      • Pro photographer (28), Semi-pro photographer (18), Photo enthusiast (6), Professional (6), Casual photographer (4)
      • Was this a gift?:
      • No (53)

    Most Liked Positive Review

     

    Not all Magic arms are equal

    I bought 2 of these kits to solve a lighting problem at a fashion event I was shooting at a place with a relatively low beamed ceiling (call it between 8-10 depending on if...Read complete review

    I bought 2 of these kits to solve a lighting problem at a fashion event I was shooting at a place with a relatively low beamed ceiling (call it between 8-10 depending on if you were on the stage or not).

    Essentially using the clamp to connect to the ceiling beams, and then using the magic arm to connect from the clamp to my Einstein moonlight (4 lbs) and UMF modifier - then running the cord along the beam with some clamps. The magic arm allowed me to position the lights roughly where I wanted them, and high enough to be out of harms way for the event (and a plug for the Einstein's here, the wireless control allowed me to adjust them without climbing a ladder).

    The kit is interesting because it contains both a stand and a super clamp and a camera adapter in addition the Magic Arm, this gives you a lot of options. However, this Magic Arm is not a variable friction model and utilized a leaver you must flip 180 degrees to lock. That's different from the Magic Arm with the knob and friction control (which helps you position heavier things a little better and doesn't require the space to flip the leaver). I own both (now) - 2 of the leaver with/kit, and one variable friction model for cases where the levers may not cut it for space reasons (which so far I haven't found).

    Bottom line here is there is a lot of value in the kit given the stands an clamps, with a slight loss in function in the Magic Arm compared to the more expensive variable friction model. It would be nice if they had the variable friction as a kit as well, but I suspect given the cost and feature deltas I'd still end up with 2 of these and one of those. It's hard to fault the value here, and the usefulness is outstanding - it's going to solve rigging problems by giving you options.

    VS

    Most Liked Negative Review

     

    Mine was defective.

    I'm going to still recommend this product because its usefulness outweight everything else. I tried to hold my 5dM2 with the clamp and it was too heavy for it. I could see putting other ...Read complete review

    I'm going to still recommend this product because its usefulness outweight everything else. I tried to hold my 5dM2 with the clamp and it was too heavy for it. I could see putting other things however, within 3 weeks, the arm already wouldn't lock. Returned it.

    Reviewed by 79 customers

    Sort by

    Displaying reviews 1-20

    Back to top

    Previous | Next »

     
    5.0

    The Magic Arm with Super Clamp is great!

    By Larry

    from College Station, TX

    About Me Pro Photographer

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Attaches Securely
    • Durable
    • Lightweight
    • Powerful

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • General Use
      • Outdoors
      • Special Events

      Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

      Being able to use the Super Clamp to clamp the Magic Arm to anything, mount my camera (Canon 5D Mark III with a 70-200 f/2.8 II lens), clamp it down and have it locked in place, is great. Now I can get the remote shots I want without worry.

      • Was this a gift?:
      • No

      Share this review

       
      5.0

      A must have for every ditty bag

      By Freddy

      from Tacoma

      About Me Pro Photographer

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Easy To Set Up
      • Reliable

      Cons

        Best Uses

          Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

          This will always come in handy as a third arm.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • No

          Share this review

           
          5.0

          Amazingly Versatile

          By Ann Ominous

          from Washington DC

          About Me Photography Student

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Consistent
          • Easy To Set Up
          • Lightweight
          • Reliable
          • Versatile

          Cons

          • None

          Best Uses

          • Artificial Lighting
          • Outdoors
          • Photography
          • Portraits
          • Strobe Lighting
          • Tight Spaces

          Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

          Good to use for situations where a typical light stand is too large or inconvenient. The super clamp is very handy for mounting a light source in unconventional places. The product is very durable and easy to use with unlimited creative possibilities.

          • Was this a gift?:
          • Yes

          Share this review

           
          5.0

          Not just a clever name

          By Chronique

          from Pittsburgh, PA

          About Me Pro Photographer

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Easy To Set Up
          • Lightweight
          • Reliable

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Artificial Lighting
            • Photography
            • Portraits
            • Strobe Lighting
            • Weddings
            • What Can It Not Do

            Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

            I can't imagine how I went all this time in the video world without owning one of these. It'll hold a production monitor, small light, small camera and about a million other things, just about anywhere you want to stick it. WOW. This makes Noga arms look flimsy and worthless, and I've owned tons of those!

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

             
            5.0

            super duper

            By the equalizer

            from Utah

            About Me Casual Photographer

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Easy To Set Up
            • Reliable

            Cons

            • Could Be Better Quality
            • Probably Short Longevity

            Best Uses

            • Acessories
            • Ground Level Light Stand
            • Lights
            • Small Camera Mount

            Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

            Really solid, more heavy duty than I imagined. Heavy for perhaps "on camera" or rig application, but this thing actually held a xl2 to a pole perfectly solid. Amazing for mounting cameras (and other production gear--lights, mics, etc) and placing them in virtually any direction. Everything locks up easily with 1 move.

            My biggest thing is hoping that it lasts :) fingers are crossed it's at least a 3-5 year thing, it doesn't feel so amazingly made that it seems like it won't start slipping under weight eventually.

            • Was this a gift?:
            • No

            Share this review

             
            5.0

            Great combo

            By Carl

            from New Zealand

            About Me Photo Enthusiast

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Easy To Set Up
            • Incredibly Versatile
            • Lightweight
            • Reliable

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Mounting to bikes
              • Photography
              • Strobe Lighting

              Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

              I've used this product for mounting my SLRs and speedlites on anything from another tripod to a mountain-bike or car. Everything has worked perfectly and met my expectations. I also bought the variable friction magic arm separately, and while that is easier to position and adjust in some situations, I have no concerns at all with the lever version and happily use them both.

              • Was this a gift?:
              • No

              Share this review

               
              5.0

              Magically stiff!

              By Ruffboy

              from Fort Worth, TX

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Easy To Set Up
              • Reliable

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Video monitor mount

                Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                It magically locks your position in one swift turn of the lock lever. Make that one 'tight' turn. The lever is tough to lock, but does the job. I believe the lever tension is adjustable, so I will try that before claiming it is too tough.I use it for mounting a monitor on my jib support.

                • Was this a gift?:
                • No

                Share this review

                 
                5.0

                Another great Manfrotto product

                By MikeFromNJ

                from Hoboken, NJ

                About Me Pro Photographer

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Consistent
                • Easy To Set Up
                • Lightweight
                • Reliable

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Artificial Lighting
                  • Photography
                  • Portraits
                  • Strobe Lighting

                  Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                  I swear by Manfrotto and this is no different. I love the Magic Arm for attaching things in tricky places. I could go on and on about examples, but my suggestion is to get this, play with it, and you'd be surprised what you can do with it. The worst thing is needing it and not having it. You may not have a use for it right now, but you will. And if you have it when you need, you'll be glad you do.

                  • Was this a gift?:
                  • No

                  Share this review

                   
                  1.0

                  Nice in theory

                  By lisa the videographer

                  from boston, ma

                  About Me Pro Photographer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Set Up

                  Cons

                  • Short Lifespan
                  • Unreliable

                  Best Uses

                    Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                    I purchased this product to use with my 8" monitor. I loved it at first. Within a few uses, it tightens up, so much so that I can no longer use it. Manfrotto has been very supportive and sent me two replacements so far. I used my most recent one about a month and a half and it is failing. I may replace it with the Manfrotto 244RC Variable Friction Magic Arm with Quick Release Camera Bracket. I love Manfrotto, but not this product.

                    • Was this a gift?:
                    • No

                    Share this review

                     
                    5.0

                    Great For Hiking and Portability

                    By fMix

                    from Seattle, WA

                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Consistent
                    • Easy To Set Up
                    • Lightweight
                    • Reliable

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Artificial Lighting
                      • Photography
                      • Portraits
                      • Strobe Lighting
                      • Weddings

                      Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                      The kit is awesome. I took it out on a hike, fit in my backpack no problem. I was able to mount the arm to fallen branches, logs, rocks, posts, and with the tripod legs I could even use the ground. Not as good as a decent tripod, but for portability and compactability you can't beat this.

                      I'm also using it on my motorcycle and car to make rolling videos. Holds very firm, just need image stabilized lenses for the rest of the shake.

                      Weight wise the kit supports my 5D2 and 17-40L without and problems, even on my bike. I plan on using it on fences during sports events to record video while I shoot photos with another camera. I have no doubt the Magic Arm will work great.

                      • Was this a gift?:
                      • No

                      Share this review

                       
                      5.0

                      Works like a charm!

                      By Gustavo

                      from Pleasant Hill, CA

                      About Me Pro Photographer

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Easy To Set Up

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Photography

                        Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                        Used to place a Canon 1D Mark 3 up high in a tent to shoot a time lapse for 8 hours. Worked perfectly!

                        • Was this a gift?:
                        • No

                        Share this review

                         
                        5.0

                        It was magic!

                        By Jannet

                        from Murdock, Minn.

                        About Me Pro Photographer

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

                        • Worked Great

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                          • Artificial Lighting
                          • Photography
                          • Portraits
                          • Strobe Lighting
                          • Weddings

                          Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                          I recently purchased the magic arm to have it ready for bike photos, or other events. I tried it out by attaching to my snow shovel, snow shovel cam! It worked out great. You need to make sure you have it all tight, but after that it worked like a charm!

                          • Was this a gift?:
                          • No

                          Share this review

                           
                          5.0

                          Great Kit!

                          By RJLane

                          from Portland, OR

                          About Me Pro Photographer

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

                          • Easy To Set Up
                          • Lightweight

                          Cons

                            Best Uses

                            • Photography
                            • Videography

                            Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                            Wanted to try some video and stills on my Mountain Bike. Wasn't sure if this would do the trick but it works perfectly! Highly recommend it.

                            • Was this a gift?:
                            • No

                            Share this review

                             
                            5.0

                            magic arm

                            By browndog77

                            from Orange,ca

                            About Me Pro Photographer

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Attach Securely
                            • Durable
                            • Long-Lasting

                            Cons

                              Best Uses

                              • Indoors
                              • Low Light
                              • Night Time
                              • Outdoors
                              • Special Events

                              Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                              I like this little baby. works great for indoor sports shooting when you can't blast people in the face but still need accent lighting from the stands so you don't have to shoot at a high ISO Setting!

                              • Was this a gift?:
                              • No

                              Share this review

                               
                              5.0

                              Wish I had two more!!

                              By Thetechbear

                              from Reno, NV

                              About Me Pro Photographer

                              Verified Buyer

                              Pros

                              • Attach Securely
                              • Durable
                              • Powerful

                              Cons

                                Best Uses

                                • General Use
                                • Indoors
                                • Outdoors
                                • Special Events

                                Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                The Magic Arm is is great for shooting DSLR Video from mounting the camera, monitor, or lights anywhere any time. I mainly use it for monitors and lights.

                                • Was this a gift?:
                                • No

                                Share this review

                                 
                                5.0

                                "I would buy this product again and agai

                                By Peter

                                from Switzerland

                                About Me Pro Photographer

                                Verified Buyer

                                Pros

                                • Easy To Set Up

                                Cons

                                  Best Uses

                                    Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                    Very robust!

                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                    • No

                                    Share this review

                                     
                                    5.0

                                    Well built!

                                    By Rob (AKA The Old Dog)

                                    from Tacoma, WA

                                    About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                    Verified Buyer

                                    Pros

                                    • Easy To Set Up
                                    • Reliable
                                    • Rugged Tough

                                    Cons

                                      Best Uses

                                      • Photography
                                      • Portraits
                                      • Video

                                      Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                      Like most things Manfrotto, this is built well, tough and durable. Took me a bit to figure out the arm lock.

                                      • Was this a gift?:
                                      • No

                                      Share this review

                                       
                                      5.0

                                      Very useful all around device.

                                      By bman

                                      from Canada

                                      About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                      Verified Buyer

                                      Pros

                                      • Consistent
                                      • Easy To Set Up
                                      • Lightweight
                                      • Reliable

                                      Cons

                                        Best Uses

                                        • Artificial Lighting
                                        • Photography
                                        • Strobe Lighting

                                        Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                        This is an extremely useful kit. I recently used it at a concert. Due to a large amount of people going to these concerts I knew I wouldn't have space for a tripod. I just used this gear with a small video camera, clamped on a table and a post. Very flexible but when set, tightened it is extremely strong.

                                        • Was this a gift?:
                                        • No

                                        Share this review

                                         
                                        5.0

                                        An amazing tool

                                        By Spac

                                        from New York, ny

                                        About Me Pro Photographer

                                        Verified Buyer

                                        Pros

                                        • Consistent
                                        • Easy To Set Up
                                        • Lightweight
                                        • Reliable

                                        Cons

                                          Best Uses

                                          • Artificial Lighting
                                          • Photography

                                          Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                          I mostly use this arm to hold my 7" monitor during Shoots.
                                          What a god send it has been. Makes me wonder how I did things without it. Great build. Sturdy and very very durable. Luv it. I would definitely recommend everyone gets one.

                                          • Was this a gift?:
                                          • No

                                          Share this review

                                           
                                          4.0

                                          Works Great!!

                                          By mfarring13

                                          from Johnson City, TN

                                          About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                          Verified Buyer

                                          Pros

                                          • Easy To Set Up
                                          • Lightweight

                                          Cons

                                            Best Uses

                                            • Photography
                                            • Portraits

                                            Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                            works great for holding reflectors... my only issue is that the knobs have to be tightened down quite a bit to hold.

                                            • Was this a gift?:
                                            • No

                                            Share this review

                                            Displaying reviews 1-20

                                            Back to top

                                            Previous | Next »

                                            REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

                                            by PowerReviews
                                            Manfrotto143 Magic Arm Kit
                                             
                                            4.7

                                            (based on 79 reviews)

                                            Ratings Distribution

                                            • 5 Stars

                                               

                                              (61)

                                            • 4 Stars

                                               

                                              (15)

                                            • 3 Stars

                                               

                                              (1)

                                            • 2 Stars

                                               

                                              (1)

                                            • 1 Stars

                                               

                                              (1)

                                            97%

                                            of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

                                            Pros

                                            • Reliable (46)
                                            • Easy to set up (36)
                                            • Lightweight (26)
                                            • Durable (21)
                                            • Consistent (20)

                                            Cons

                                            • Heavy (6)

                                            Best Uses

                                            • Photography (35)
                                            • Portraits (20)
                                            • Strobe lighting (18)
                                            • Artificial lighting (17)
                                            • Weddings (10)
                                              • Reviewer Profile:
                                              • Pro photographer (28), Semi-pro photographer (18), Photo enthusiast (6), Professional (6), Casual photographer (4)
                                              • Was this a gift?:
                                              • No (53)

                                            Most Liked Positive Review

                                             

                                            Not all Magic arms are equal

                                            I bought 2 of these kits to solve a lighting problem at a fashion event I was shooting at a place with a relatively low beamed ceiling (call it between 8-10 depending on if...Read complete review

                                            I bought 2 of these kits to solve a lighting problem at a fashion event I was shooting at a place with a relatively low beamed ceiling (call it between 8-10 depending on if you were on the stage or not).

                                            Essentially using the clamp to connect to the ceiling beams, and then using the magic arm to connect from the clamp to my Einstein moonlight (4 lbs) and UMF modifier - then running the cord along the beam with some clamps. The magic arm allowed me to position the lights roughly where I wanted them, and high enough to be out of harms way for the event (and a plug for the Einstein's here, the wireless control allowed me to adjust them without climbing a ladder).

                                            The kit is interesting because it contains both a stand and a super clamp and a camera adapter in addition the Magic Arm, this gives you a lot of options. However, this Magic Arm is not a variable friction model and utilized a leaver you must flip 180 degrees to lock. That's different from the Magic Arm with the knob and friction control (which helps you position heavier things a little better and doesn't require the space to flip the leaver). I own both (now) - 2 of the leaver with/kit, and one variable friction model for cases where the levers may not cut it for space reasons (which so far I haven't found).

                                            Bottom line here is there is a lot of value in the kit given the stands an clamps, with a slight loss in function in the Magic Arm compared to the more expensive variable friction model. It would be nice if they had the variable friction as a kit as well, but I suspect given the cost and feature deltas I'd still end up with 2 of these and one of those. It's hard to fault the value here, and the usefulness is outstanding - it's going to solve rigging problems by giving you options.

                                            VS

                                            Most Liked Negative Review

                                             

                                            Mine was defective.

                                            I'm going to still recommend this product because its usefulness outweight everything else. I tried to hold my 5dM2 with the clamp and it was too heavy for it. I could see putting other ...Read complete review

                                            I'm going to still recommend this product because its usefulness outweight everything else. I tried to hold my 5dM2 with the clamp and it was too heavy for it. I could see putting other things however, within 3 weeks, the arm already wouldn't lock. Returned it.

                                            Reviewed by 79 customers

                                            Sort by

                                            Displaying reviews 1-20

                                            Back to top

                                            Previous | Next »

                                             
                                            5.0

                                            The Magic Arm with Super Clamp is great!

                                            By Larry

                                            from College Station, TX

                                            About Me Pro Photographer

                                            Verified Buyer

                                            Pros

                                            • Attaches Securely
                                            • Durable
                                            • Lightweight
                                            • Powerful

                                            Cons

                                              Best Uses

                                              • General Use
                                              • Outdoors
                                              • Special Events

                                              Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                              Being able to use the Super Clamp to clamp the Magic Arm to anything, mount my camera (Canon 5D Mark III with a 70-200 f/2.8 II lens), clamp it down and have it locked in place, is great. Now I can get the remote shots I want without worry.

                                              • Was this a gift?:
                                              • No

                                              Share this review

                                               
                                              5.0

                                              A must have for every ditty bag

                                              By Freddy

                                              from Tacoma

                                              About Me Pro Photographer

                                              Verified Buyer

                                              Pros

                                              • Easy To Set Up
                                              • Reliable

                                              Cons

                                                Best Uses

                                                  Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                  This will always come in handy as a third arm.

                                                  • Was this a gift?:
                                                  • No

                                                  Share this review

                                                   
                                                  5.0

                                                  Amazingly Versatile

                                                  By Ann Ominous

                                                  from Washington DC

                                                  About Me Photography Student

                                                  Verified Buyer

                                                  Pros

                                                  • Consistent
                                                  • Easy To Set Up
                                                  • Lightweight
                                                  • Reliable
                                                  • Versatile

                                                  Cons

                                                  • None

                                                  Best Uses

                                                  • Artificial Lighting
                                                  • Outdoors
                                                  • Photography
                                                  • Portraits
                                                  • Strobe Lighting
                                                  • Tight Spaces

                                                  Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                  Good to use for situations where a typical light stand is too large or inconvenient. The super clamp is very handy for mounting a light source in unconventional places. The product is very durable and easy to use with unlimited creative possibilities.

                                                  • Was this a gift?:
                                                  • Yes

                                                  Share this review

                                                   
                                                  5.0

                                                  Not just a clever name

                                                  By Chronique

                                                  from Pittsburgh, PA

                                                  About Me Pro Photographer

                                                  Verified Buyer

                                                  Pros

                                                  • Easy To Set Up
                                                  • Lightweight
                                                  • Reliable

                                                  Cons

                                                    Best Uses

                                                    • Artificial Lighting
                                                    • Photography
                                                    • Portraits
                                                    • Strobe Lighting
                                                    • Weddings
                                                    • What Can It Not Do

                                                    Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                    I can't imagine how I went all this time in the video world without owning one of these. It'll hold a production monitor, small light, small camera and about a million other things, just about anywhere you want to stick it. WOW. This makes Noga arms look flimsy and worthless, and I've owned tons of those!

                                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                                    • No

                                                    Share this review

                                                     
                                                    5.0

                                                    super duper

                                                    By the equalizer

                                                    from Utah

                                                    About Me Casual Photographer

                                                    Verified Buyer

                                                    Pros

                                                    • Easy To Set Up
                                                    • Reliable

                                                    Cons

                                                    • Could Be Better Quality
                                                    • Probably Short Longevity

                                                    Best Uses

                                                    • Acessories
                                                    • Ground Level Light Stand
                                                    • Lights
                                                    • Small Camera Mount

                                                    Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                    Really solid, more heavy duty than I imagined. Heavy for perhaps "on camera" or rig application, but this thing actually held a xl2 to a pole perfectly solid. Amazing for mounting cameras (and other production gear--lights, mics, etc) and placing them in virtually any direction. Everything locks up easily with 1 move.

                                                    My biggest thing is hoping that it lasts :) fingers are crossed it's at least a 3-5 year thing, it doesn't feel so amazingly made that it seems like it won't start slipping under weight eventually.

                                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                                    • No

                                                    Share this review

                                                     
                                                    5.0

                                                    Great combo

                                                    By Carl

                                                    from New Zealand

                                                    About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                                    Verified Buyer

                                                    Pros

                                                    • Easy To Set Up
                                                    • Incredibly Versatile
                                                    • Lightweight
                                                    • Reliable

                                                    Cons

                                                      Best Uses

                                                      • Mounting to bikes
                                                      • Photography
                                                      • Strobe Lighting

                                                      Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                      I've used this product for mounting my SLRs and speedlites on anything from another tripod to a mountain-bike or car. Everything has worked perfectly and met my expectations. I also bought the variable friction magic arm separately, and while that is easier to position and adjust in some situations, I have no concerns at all with the lever version and happily use them both.

                                                      • Was this a gift?:
                                                      • No

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                                                      5.0

                                                      Magically stiff!

                                                      By Ruffboy

                                                      from Fort Worth, TX

                                                      Verified Buyer

                                                      Pros

                                                      • Easy To Set Up
                                                      • Reliable

                                                      Cons

                                                        Best Uses

                                                        • Video monitor mount

                                                        Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                        It magically locks your position in one swift turn of the lock lever. Make that one 'tight' turn. The lever is tough to lock, but does the job. I believe the lever tension is adjustable, so I will try that before claiming it is too tough.I use it for mounting a monitor on my jib support.

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                                                        • No

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                                                        5.0

                                                        Another great Manfrotto product

                                                        By MikeFromNJ

                                                        from Hoboken, NJ

                                                        About Me Pro Photographer

                                                        Verified Buyer

                                                        Pros

                                                        • Consistent
                                                        • Easy To Set Up
                                                        • Lightweight
                                                        • Reliable

                                                        Cons

                                                          Best Uses

                                                          • Artificial Lighting
                                                          • Photography
                                                          • Portraits
                                                          • Strobe Lighting

                                                          Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                          I swear by Manfrotto and this is no different. I love the Magic Arm for attaching things in tricky places. I could go on and on about examples, but my suggestion is to get this, play with it, and you'd be surprised what you can do with it. The worst thing is needing it and not having it. You may not have a use for it right now, but you will. And if you have it when you need, you'll be glad you do.

                                                          • Was this a gift?:
                                                          • No

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                                                          1.0

                                                          Nice in theory

                                                          By lisa the videographer

                                                          from boston, ma

                                                          About Me Pro Photographer

                                                          Pros

                                                          • Easy To Set Up

                                                          Cons

                                                          • Short Lifespan
                                                          • Unreliable

                                                          Best Uses

                                                            Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                            I purchased this product to use with my 8" monitor. I loved it at first. Within a few uses, it tightens up, so much so that I can no longer use it. Manfrotto has been very supportive and sent me two replacements so far. I used my most recent one about a month and a half and it is failing. I may replace it with the Manfrotto 244RC Variable Friction Magic Arm with Quick Release Camera Bracket. I love Manfrotto, but not this product.

                                                            • Was this a gift?:
                                                            • No

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                                                            5.0

                                                            Great For Hiking and Portability

                                                            By fMix

                                                            from Seattle, WA

                                                            About Me Photo Enthusiast

                                                            Verified Buyer

                                                            Pros

                                                            • Consistent
                                                            • Easy To Set Up
                                                            • Lightweight
                                                            • Reliable

                                                            Cons

                                                              Best Uses

                                                              • Artificial Lighting
                                                              • Photography
                                                              • Portraits
                                                              • Strobe Lighting
                                                              • Weddings

                                                              Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                              The kit is awesome. I took it out on a hike, fit in my backpack no problem. I was able to mount the arm to fallen branches, logs, rocks, posts, and with the tripod legs I could even use the ground. Not as good as a decent tripod, but for portability and compactability you can't beat this.

                                                              I'm also using it on my motorcycle and car to make rolling videos. Holds very firm, just need image stabilized lenses for the rest of the shake.

                                                              Weight wise the kit supports my 5D2 and 17-40L without and problems, even on my bike. I plan on using it on fences during sports events to record video while I shoot photos with another camera. I have no doubt the Magic Arm will work great.

                                                              • Was this a gift?:
                                                              • No

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                                                              5.0

                                                              Works like a charm!

                                                              By Gustavo

                                                              from Pleasant Hill, CA

                                                              About Me Pro Photographer

                                                              Verified Buyer

                                                              Pros

                                                              • Easy To Set Up

                                                              Cons

                                                                Best Uses

                                                                • Photography

                                                                Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                                Used to place a Canon 1D Mark 3 up high in a tent to shoot a time lapse for 8 hours. Worked perfectly!

                                                                • Was this a gift?:
                                                                • No

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                                                                5.0

                                                                It was magic!

                                                                By Jannet

                                                                from Murdock, Minn.

                                                                About Me Pro Photographer

                                                                Verified Buyer

                                                                Pros

                                                                • Worked Great

                                                                Cons

                                                                  Best Uses

                                                                  • Artificial Lighting
                                                                  • Photography
                                                                  • Portraits
                                                                  • Strobe Lighting
                                                                  • Weddings

                                                                  Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                                  I recently purchased the magic arm to have it ready for bike photos, or other events. I tried it out by attaching to my snow shovel, snow shovel cam! It worked out great. You need to make sure you have it all tight, but after that it worked like a charm!

                                                                  • Was this a gift?:
                                                                  • No

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                                                                  5.0

                                                                  Great Kit!

                                                                  By RJLane

                                                                  from Portland, OR

                                                                  About Me Pro Photographer

                                                                  Verified Buyer

                                                                  Pros

                                                                  • Easy To Set Up
                                                                  • Lightweight

                                                                  Cons

                                                                    Best Uses

                                                                    • Photography
                                                                    • Videography

                                                                    Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                                    Wanted to try some video and stills on my Mountain Bike. Wasn't sure if this would do the trick but it works perfectly! Highly recommend it.

                                                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                                                    • No

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                                                                    5.0

                                                                    magic arm

                                                                    By browndog77

                                                                    from Orange,ca

                                                                    About Me Pro Photographer

                                                                    Verified Buyer

                                                                    Pros

                                                                    • Attach Securely
                                                                    • Durable
                                                                    • Long-Lasting

                                                                    Cons

                                                                      Best Uses

                                                                      • Indoors
                                                                      • Low Light
                                                                      • Night Time
                                                                      • Outdoors
                                                                      • Special Events

                                                                      Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                                      I like this little baby. works great for indoor sports shooting when you can't blast people in the face but still need accent lighting from the stands so you don't have to shoot at a high ISO Setting!

                                                                      • Was this a gift?:
                                                                      • No

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                                                                      5.0

                                                                      Wish I had two more!!

                                                                      By Thetechbear

                                                                      from Reno, NV

                                                                      About Me Pro Photographer

                                                                      Verified Buyer

                                                                      Pros

                                                                      • Attach Securely
                                                                      • Durable
                                                                      • Powerful

                                                                      Cons

                                                                        Best Uses

                                                                        • General Use
                                                                        • Indoors
                                                                        • Outdoors
                                                                        • Special Events

                                                                        Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                                        The Magic Arm is is great for shooting DSLR Video from mounting the camera, monitor, or lights anywhere any time. I mainly use it for monitors and lights.

                                                                        • Was this a gift?:
                                                                        • No

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                                                                        5.0

                                                                        "I would buy this product again and agai

                                                                        By Peter

                                                                        from Switzerland

                                                                        About Me Pro Photographer

                                                                        Verified Buyer

                                                                        Pros

                                                                        • Easy To Set Up

                                                                        Cons

                                                                          Best Uses

                                                                            Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                                            Very robust!

                                                                            • Was this a gift?:
                                                                            • No

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                                                                            5.0

                                                                            Well built!

                                                                            By Rob (AKA The Old Dog)

                                                                            from Tacoma, WA

                                                                            About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                                                            Verified Buyer

                                                                            Pros

                                                                            • Easy To Set Up
                                                                            • Reliable
                                                                            • Rugged Tough

                                                                            Cons

                                                                              Best Uses

                                                                              • Photography
                                                                              • Portraits
                                                                              • Video

                                                                              Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                                              Like most things Manfrotto, this is built well, tough and durable. Took me a bit to figure out the arm lock.

                                                                              • Was this a gift?:
                                                                              • No

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                                                                              5.0

                                                                              Very useful all around device.

                                                                              By bman

                                                                              from Canada

                                                                              About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                                                              Verified Buyer

                                                                              Pros

                                                                              • Consistent
                                                                              • Easy To Set Up
                                                                              • Lightweight
                                                                              • Reliable

                                                                              Cons

                                                                                Best Uses

                                                                                • Artificial Lighting
                                                                                • Photography
                                                                                • Strobe Lighting

                                                                                Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                                                This is an extremely useful kit. I recently used it at a concert. Due to a large amount of people going to these concerts I knew I wouldn't have space for a tripod. I just used this gear with a small video camera, clamped on a table and a post. Very flexible but when set, tightened it is extremely strong.

                                                                                • Was this a gift?:
                                                                                • No

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                                                                                5.0

                                                                                An amazing tool

                                                                                By Spac

                                                                                from New York, ny

                                                                                About Me Pro Photographer

                                                                                Verified Buyer

                                                                                Pros

                                                                                • Consistent
                                                                                • Easy To Set Up
                                                                                • Lightweight
                                                                                • Reliable

                                                                                Cons

                                                                                  Best Uses

                                                                                  • Artificial Lighting
                                                                                  • Photography

                                                                                  Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                                                  I mostly use this arm to hold my 7" monitor during Shoots.
                                                                                  What a god send it has been. Makes me wonder how I did things without it. Great build. Sturdy and very very durable. Luv it. I would definitely recommend everyone gets one.

                                                                                  • Was this a gift?:
                                                                                  • No

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                                                                                  4.0

                                                                                  Works Great!!

                                                                                  By mfarring13

                                                                                  from Johnson City, TN

                                                                                  About Me Semi-pro Photographer

                                                                                  Verified Buyer

                                                                                  Pros

                                                                                  • Easy To Set Up
                                                                                  • Lightweight

                                                                                  Cons

                                                                                    Best Uses

                                                                                    • Photography
                                                                                    • Portraits

                                                                                    Comments about Manfrotto 143 Magic Arm Kit:

                                                                                    works great for holding reflectors... my only issue is that the knobs have to be tightened down quite a bit to hold.

                                                                                    • Was this a gift?:
                                                                                    • No

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