Universal clamp with dual locking levers for grip equipment. Holds 25–50 kg, accommodates 16–35 mm pipe via 5/8″ stud.
Technical Details
Standard grip heads carry loads up to 25 kg, heavy-duty variants up to 50 kg with an own weight of 1.2 to 2.8 kg. The core consists of two counter-rotating tension levers with an eccentric mechanism, providing a clamping force of 800-1200 Newtons. The lower pin (Baby Pin) fits into 5/8-inch receivers, while the top jaw clamps tubes with a diameter of 16-35mm. High-quality models from Matthews or Avenger feature hardened steel jaws with knurling for non-slip grip, even under vibration.
History & Development
Matthews Studio Equipment developed the first standardized grip head for Hollywood studios in 1947, after improvised wooden wedges and wire ties had led to frequent accidents. The "Matthews Apple Box Clamp" established the 5/8-inch system, which is still in use today. In 1963, Mole-Richardson introduced the Double-Ended Grip Head, followed by Gitzo's first quick-release mechanism in 1978. Modern CNC-milled variants since the 1990s have reduced weight by 30% while maintaining the same load capacity.
Practical Use in Film
On "Blade Runner 2049" (2017), DoP Roger Deakins and his team used over 300 grip heads for the complex overhead rigs in the Spinner sequences. Grip heads allow for precise alignment of mirror boards, diffusers, and flags within seconds without tools. In confined sets like submarine films ("Das Boot", 1981), grips clamp the heads directly onto pipes or beams for improvised lighting positions. The disadvantage: extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the metal clamp to loosen, which is why additional safety lines are mandatory for exterior shoots.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike a fixed C-clamp, the grip head offers two axes of movement, while Super Clamps (Manfrotto) also allow for side pipe mounting. Modern ball-head systems from Arca Swiss or Really Right Stuff are increasingly replacing grip heads for camera work, but remain standard for lighting. Magnetic grip heads (since 2019) adhere to steel structures without clamps, but only achieve a load capacity of 15 kg. For drone lighting, DJI developed carbon-fiber variants in 2021 with an own weight of 200g.