CobraCrane 5032 CobraCrane II Plus

Comments about 5032 CobraCrane II Plus:

Bought this rig for production using small format cameras. Works great and very easy to setup. Very smooth.

Comments about 5032 CobraCrane II Plus:

If you're looking for a low-budget crane that will get you smooth shots, this is the one. I looked at a bunch of cheaper ones but everything I read about their stability was negative. I opted to pick this one up, and used it for 3 week shoot. It worked great. Reliable and simple to set up.

Comments about 5032 CobraCrane II Plus:

Used for b-roll on those ever so fun auto dealer shoots.
Great is it's simplicity. It gives me more creative freedom when shooting. As I usually work alone, I find the CC crane to be exceptionally easy for this solo shooter.

The bad, all minor issues.
When I first snapped in the extension, the holes weren't precisely aligned on one side, so it took a few to find that sweet spot for the thumb screws to hook. But since then I've gotten the hang of it.
The weight plate holder should come with a space to prevent the weights from sliding around. I use a rag & cardboard currently to fill in that space.
The camera support area should come with an added secure option as backup protection should the camera decide it can fly. I currently use a bungee cord.
Lastly, since this was my first experience with a crane system I would have appreciated a quick reference card to aid in finding the balance point. Like if camera weighs X, you'll need approx Y to start.
But none of these would deter me from purchasing another CC system.

Comments about 5032 CobraCrane II Plus:

It is well designed and made quite sturdy. I also had some creaking but when the cable is adjusted that went away. The only problem I had/have is the tripod head. When it was loaded with my JVC GY-HD200U plus weights and a monitor all this overwhelmed my tripod head, I figured it was about 80 pounds altogether including the crane... You will need a strong head with this unit and a large camera. Also be sure the weight bar is tightened correctly as mine loosened on a shoot some 50 miles from anywhere, thankfully the weights only shifted forward and the nut holding the weights held them in place but the post bent. My solution for moving it is a roof rack on the top of the car which means I don't need to break it down every time!

Comments about 5032 CobraCrane II Plus:

Overall I am satisfied with the crane. My only complaint is that I am not able to tilt the camera from the ground. Also, make sure you are using a sturdy tripod. I originally tried the crane with my Canon XLH1 and the tripod buckled under the weight. So now I use my Canon XHA1 and the crane works fine. I have uploaded some demo footage to youtube[@]

Comments about 5032 CobraCrane II Plus:

This crane is grant for the independent filmmaker. We bought it for our son who just graduated with a degree in Broadcasting & Film, and he loves it. Once you get the weights set, the operation is smooth and seamless giving great shots. Highly recommend!