Manfrotto clamp system with 13–55 mm grip range and 5 kg load capacity for rapid LED panel mounting on door frames or railings without stands.
Technical Details
Standard Avenger Grips have a clamping range of 13-55 mm and a maximum load capacity of 5 kg when mounted horizontally, 3 kg when mounted vertically. The clamping range is adjusted by a knurled screw with an 8:1 reduction ratio, allowing for precise settings. Variants include the A425 Super Clamp (standard model), the A400 Mini Clamp (clamping range 13-35 mm, 2 kg load capacity), and the A635 Fast Clamp with a quick-release mechanism. The gripping arms are rubber-coated to prevent scratches on the attached surfaces.
History & Development
In 1982, Manfrotto developed the first generation of Avenger Clamps in response to the demand for flexible mounting solutions for the growing ENG (Electronic News Gathering) production. Italian engineer Lino Manfrotto designed the system based on surgical clamps. In 1995, the A425 Super Clamp was introduced, which became an industry standard. The current third generation, released in 2018, features reinforced joints and corrosion-resistant coating.
Practical Use in Film
Cinematographer Roger Deakins regularly uses Avenger Grips for practical lighting sources in tight shooting situations, such as during vehicle shots in "1917" (2019). The grips allow for the attachment of small LED panels to door frames, railings, or camera rigs without separate stands. Typical applications include kicker lights, hair lights, or eye lights in interview setups. The advantage lies in quick positioning without floor stands, while the disadvantage is the limited load capacity for larger lighting fixtures.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike Magic Arms, Avenger Grips do not offer articulated adjustment but provide higher stability under vertical load. Modern alternatives like the SmallRig Crab Clamp system use quick-release mechanisms instead of knurled screws and achieve clamping forces up to 150 N. Cardellini Clamps offer similar functionality with a larger clamping range (up to 75 mm), while Kupo Convi Clamps provide extended positioning options through 360° rotation. For loads exceeding 5 kg, Tube Clamps or Scaffold Clamps are used.
Areas of Application and Professional Uses
Vehicle Shots and Mobile Setups
Avenger Grips are the ideal solution for vehicle rigs without separate stands. They clamp onto door frames, hoods, or roll bars and stably hold small LED panels or light heads during motion. In "1917" (2019), gaffers used Avenger Grips on vehicles for practical light source simulation without visible stands.
Handheld Production and Documentary Film
In mobile documentaries, Avenger Grips allow for quick lighting adjustments on door frames or ceiling beams without the setup and breakdown of stands. A complete mobile grip kit with 6-8 Avenger Clamps weighs under 2 kg and fits into a backpack compartment.
Green Screen and Compositing Shots
For chroma key productions, gaffers mount Avenger Grips directly onto the green screen frame to position practical edge lighting without the need for extra stands.
Studio Detail Shots and Product Photography
In advertising photography and product film production, Avenger Clamps hold small reflectors or LED panels in optimal positions without tripod legs appearing in the frame.
Complementary Manufacturer Perspective
The Avenger brand was founded in 1978 as an Italian specialist in clamping systems. The company focuses on location equipment and portable solutions. The current A425 Super Clamp is the benchmark with a load capacity of up to 5 kg and revolutionized the ENG industry in the 1990s. Modern variants include quick-release systems for handheld operations.
Practical Handling and Safety
Proper Attachment
- Keep clamping surfaces clean (dust reduces grip)
- Tighten the knurled screw firmly (hand strength is sufficient, no tools!)
- Check surfaces for scratch risks (can lead to slippage)
- Lock the pivot joints after mounting (prevents unwanted rotation)
Common Mistakes
- Overloading (over 5 kg): Leads to slippage and falling hazards
- Not fully closing the gripping arms: Reduces grip
- Mounting on smooth surfaces without using rubber pads: Risk of slipping