Matthews Hollywood C-Stand Grip Arm Kit (Silver 10.5)

What can I say about an industry standard that people in the know already are quite aware of. You can't go wrong the a Matthews C-Stand!

You'll buy these exactly one time in your life. If money isn't too tight, these are well worth the investment. Every single part of this stand is a hundred times over engineered. Short of running over them with a car or truck, they are never going to break. A slight caution with these. They are heavy. Really heavy. You don't just throw two of these in a bag with lights and walk around. No they weigh a ton. They need their own case. If portability is a major requirement, look at other lighter stands. These can be folded and moved around, and have some level of portability - but two of them weigh a ton - over that 40 pound limit of simply carrying things. On the bright side - oh the build. The knobs are all huge metal castings, they will never break. The screws are all big heavy duty screws going into thick metal fittings. The pipes are all super thick wall. There are only six small plastic bits - the bushings to prevent the columns from smashing against metal, and the leg caps. The arm does need a 6 pin to attach lights or accessories. Not sure why that wasn't included in the kit. Every joint comes with white lithium grease on it. So, early on, you might get some grease on your hands. Over time that will go away. It isn't intuitively obvious how to fold the legs and lock them. You just have to play with them to understand the system. Buy this one time, it is the best. To get the best most stable, stand you give up lightweight and some level of portability (they still can be used on location - it just takes more brawn to get them there).

sturdy and stable. I can now use overhead lighting. Also, the knobs need only be turned slightly to grip; a big help when you are alone with heavy gear.

I work in film and TV and work with all types of C-stands. You know the ones that give me the least trouble? The Matthews. They are indestructible. The legs fold in and out with ease. The risers work smoothly. You get what you pay for in this business. Pay the little extra and get the stands that will last. Oh, and label them so you keep them!