Aluminum clamp with 16mm spigot for tool-free mounting of lights to pipes and trusses. Load capacity up to 25kg, setup in under 30 seconds.
Technical Details
The basic construction consists of a die-cast aluminum clamp with a hardened steel joint and a locking screw with an 8mm thread. The standard spigot has a diameter of 16mm and a length of 120mm; alternatively, 28mm spigots are available for heavier loads. The vulcanized rubber jaws prevent scratches on the support structures. Special variants include the Super Clamp (up to 25kg load capacity), mini clamps for 8-35mm tubes, and Cardellini clamps with an expanded opening range up to 63mm. When properly mounted, the locking screw generates a clamping force of 800-1200N.
History & Development
Matthews Studio Equipment developed the first industrially manufactured Gaffer Grip for Hollywood studios in 1947, based on improvised clamps from the 1930s. The breakthrough came in 1962 with the introduction of the standardized 16mm spigot system, which created compatibility between different manufacturers. Cardellini Clamps revolutionized the design in 1984 with variable jaw openings and increased load capacities. Modern CNC manufacturing since the 1990s has significantly improved precision and durability.
Practical Use in Film
In "Blade Runner 2049" (2017), DoP Roger Deakins used hundreds of Gaffer Grips to attach LED panels to the ceiling structure and create the characteristic neon aesthetic. Typical workflow: Grips are clamped onto existing trusses, lights are mounted via spigot connection, and aligned using ball joints. Setup is tool-free in under 30 seconds per unit. Disadvantages appear with dynamic loads and extreme temperatures, where the clamping force can reduce.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike permanently mounted rail systems, Gaffer Grips allow for spontaneous lighting positioning without prior infrastructure planning. Modern magnet clamps (up to 35kg holding force) are increasingly replacing them on steel structures, while vacuum grips are used for glass and smooth surfaces. For exterior shots, classic C-stands continue to dominate, as Gaffer Grips require suitable mounting points. Quick-release systems like the Manfrotto Super Clamp offer higher speed but less flexibility with irregular shapes.