Anyone use a BlackHawk or Similar?

[sk66]

I'm interested in getting one, or making something similar, for birds in flight shooting. I like to shoot with my 500mm f4.5 handheld, but it's a bit difficult to do consistently. And handheld is about impossible with the SigMonster.

Any input from someone experienced with these things?

[kirbinster]

For those of us not familiar could you tell us what a BlackHawk is? I have used my Tamron 200-500mm handheld, but it is hard. Need to shoot at a fast speed.

[sk66]

Sorry. It should have said "BushHawk". (Title's now edited). It's a shoulder mount for cameras.

A BlackHawk is one of the helicopters I'm rated in...a bit of a brain stall there.

[FDCPR]

Originally Posted by sk66

Sorry. It should have said "BushHawk". (Title's now edited). It's a shoulder mount for cameras.

A BlackHawk is one of the helicopters I'm rated in...a bit of a brain stall there.

I read this the other day and saw the Black Hawk name and thought you were going big time, Black Hawk is also the name of a camera support mainly for professional video cameras and costs in the neighborhood of 7k.

Now the BushHawk is a totally different item and now your post makes sense to me. I have seen several people test the unit and everyone I know has sent the unit back as they can't get stable enough with the unit. I tried a copy for a few shots but never for long enough to really get used to using it. I just didn't like it, you might try one from somewhere that will let you send it back if it doesn't work for you. Although I don't think it will replace a tripod and good head, but I'd love to be proven wrong as I really hate using a tripod.

[FDCPR]

Are you going to try this thing or not? Yes, I'm hopeful it works.

[sk66]

I have just ordered the first component for my design....I'll post it when it's finished. I'm not willing to spend $300 to try something I can make for under $100.

[FDCPR]

Originally Posted by sk66

I have just ordered the first component for my design....I'll post it when it's finished. I'm not willing to spend $300 to try something I can make for under $100.

Good for you, I started to suggest that but one never knows the skill level of the other person. I keep my machine shop busy making test products for me.

[sk66]

CNC shop???

[FDCPR]

Originally Posted by sk66

CNC shop???

No, our shop is limited due to the fact it just a small operation that produces parts or repairs for use at my clients facilities. Mainly emergency work to get equipment back into operation quickly. For CNC work we outsource to either a small shop here or a large shop in Texas. At least I hope I got this right, I'm the automation/electrical guy and my business partner handles the mechanical side.