PROS: light weight, easy to adjust, easy to hang, easy to attach, build in bubble levelCONS: ratchet strap is noisy in the woods
This year is our first year filming hunts on NYBowhunter.com and we're very excited about it. Being new to filming hunts there is a lot to learn, but having the right tools really helps. As I'm sure everyone has seen, watching shaky footage is not enjoyable. You have to keep the camera stead and while you can't bring a traditional tripod into the tree with you, you can bring a tree arm.
There are several camera arms on the market, but the Muddy Outdoors Camera Arm is extremely easy to use, lightweight and sturdy. The camera arm can support up to 10 pounds of camera and accessories - remember that fluid head you put on there is going to weigh something along with microphones, etc. Out of the box he arm requires some basic assembly - the legs that press up against the tree and the fluid head mount. I had to slightly tighten some of the larger bolts on the arm to get it to my preference.
The tree arm has a unique leveling system that makes adjusting the arm to the bubble level a breeze. Simply rotate the large black knob clockwise or counter clockwise to raise and lower the arm or flip the latches to adjust the right and left of the arm. It doesn't get any easier than this!
When I first used the 2" ratchet strap provided I instantly started looking for another solution because I didn't want to make any noise in the woods. I took it as far as putting the arm in my drill press and setting it up with a Lone Wolf versa button. The concept was great, the execution was less than perfect - it doesn't work. There's a reason they give you a 2" ratchet strap and there's a reason all high end camera arms use them. It's simply the best way to get the arm super tight to the tree which ensures smooth steady video.
I purchased the camera arm in Mossy Oak for $230, but it is also available in brown for $200. This camera arm is worth every penny and is reasonably priced saving you money to spend on a high quality fluid head - I have a Manfrotto 701 HDV head on mine.
If you're getting into filming hunts as many of my friends are then I strongly suggest you take a look at the Muddy Outdoors Camera Arm. It's a high quality product that fits an outdoor videographer's needs.
I just purchased their harness. They make great products. Looking to pick up one of their treestands.
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