I’ve had the scissor jib for just over a year now and can truly say that I love it.
It isn’t a perfect techno crane replacement, but for the cost, it is very close.
Evening just using it as a “normal” jib that has the ability to quickly place the camera wherever you need is extremely valuable.
And unlike a big techno crane, I have been able to bring this inside many houses, even getting some really cool shoots inside a bed room with 8ft (2.5m) ceilings.
The motor control does take a little finesse. I actually flip the controller 180* and use my index finger to control the rocker, I find that gives me much more control than my thumb. If you just push down on the button there can be a fair amount of rocking that can occur due to inertia. So a gentle touch is required.
I also usually give the head control to the DP - as operating the pickle (extension and contraction) + the up and down + side to side is already take a lot of coordination and brain power. Adding 3 more axis to that can really mess with your brain and cause you to ruin shots.
It is well built but just due to the design, there is a little sway that can happen when it is fully extended. So this should be monitored in a dangerous or high wind situation.
Also the motor is extremely powerful! It sheered a bolt off once when a weight got jammed in the wrong place, so it can most certain take a finger off. So please always use caution when extending or retracting.
I put my Ronin 2 on it and have regularly used professional cameras such as: Arri Alexa mini (and LF), Red Gemini, Dragon, etc. with cinema lenses, follow focus, and wireless, and it has handled it wonderfully.
I would definitely not push it past the recommended limit of 33lbs however.
Feel free to message me on Instagram with any questions: @gabekimpson
