Peg System

The Peg System is the universal connection system for the grip department — nothing gets done on set without it. You use it to mount lights, reflectors, flags, and other accessories to boom arms, C-stands, and rigging constructions. The system works on a simple principle: rods (pegs) of different diameters (usually 16 mm and 19 mm) fit into correspondingly drilled slots and holes, which are arranged crosswise. A thread or clamp then secures the peg in the desired position.

The elegance lies in its flexibility: you can position arms and mounts at almost any angle, reconfigure quickly, and precisely balance loads. A 16 mm peg typically supports up to 5 kg, a 19 mm peg up to about 10 kg — sufficient for HMI headlamps, smaller lights, and reflectors. For rigging, the system is indispensable: the pegs allow you to distribute heavy loads across multiple points and make each individual attachment stable. On larger productions, rigging teams work almost exclusively with it.

Practical Tips: The peg must always be pushed into the slot with sufficient force until it stops — not just inserted, but pressed. The screw or clamp then goes over it. A common source of error is insufficient depth: if the peg is not seated deeply enough in the slot, the load can break off. Always double-check, especially with overhead rigging. Replace worn pegs with dents or scratches — the tolerances are tight. You need a small assortment on set: different peg sizes, adapter pieces for adjustments, T-handles, and crank wrenches for quick assembly.

The system is so robust and practical that it has remained the standard for decades. It doesn't compete with more modern quick-release systems but complements them. A good grip master knows the Peg System by heart — it's as fundamental as manipulating a C-stand or balancing weights.