So I’m almost done with my Merlin Steadicam. I just need to figure out what i want to do for the area that actually holds the camera. The system is pretty simple. I used some washers as counter weights and the handle sits on a gimbal (a universal joint and 2 bearings). The gimbal reduces a majority of hand jitters and the counter weights do a pretty good job at taking care of the rest.

Everything was bought from Home Depot excluding the universal joints, I got those from a hobby shop). The entire project costs just under 60 bucks which isn’t bad considering the Tiffen steadicam costs just under 800 dollars.

As soon as i get the mount working I’ll put up some sample videos! (Also i need to trim the handle cause my gimbal is too long and it flexes.)

UPDATE I tested some footage with it today. My handle needs a complete redesign. It is clipping at some spot and causing the entire camera to pan. I shot for about a minute and my arm is really tired…. I knew i should have went PVC…..

UPDATE Reduced the amount i needed for counter-weights by extending the lower arm out another 6″. This made it a lot more stable with a lot less weight.