SMALLRIG Lightweight NATO Top Handle, Quick Release NATO Grip with NATO Rail for DSLR Camera Cage, Universal Top Handle built in 5 Cold Shoe Adapters - 4345

I recently added the SmallRig Quick Release NATO Top Handle to my camera setup, and it has been a game-changer for my workflow.One of the best features is the quick attach and detach mechanism. It effortlessly mounts onto the NATO rail of my camera, allowing me to swiftly remove or reposition the handle as needed. This has been incredibly useful for switching between different shooting configurations on the fly.The size of the handle is perfect, especially for someone like me with medium/small hands. The grip is comfortable and fits easily in my hand, making it a pleasure to use during long shoots.The handle also offers excellent versatility with multiple mounting points for adding a monitor and other accessories. This flexibility has significantly improved my rig's functionality, making it easier to set up and use additional gear during shoots.For those using a heavy lens in front, I recommend fitting the handle the opposite way. This helps counterbalance the weight and stabilizes the camera more effectively, making it easier to handle.Overall, the SmallRig Quick Release NATO Top Handle is a fantastic addition to any camera rig. It's well-built, easy to use, and enhances the overall shooting experience. I highly recommend it!

Good item. Works well. Permits better balance and support as camera weight sits (ideally) below a single top handle. The Arri screw quickly attaches into the top centre Arri hole on most SmallRig camera cages - makes adding removing relatively fast and precise (ie no risk of slop/twist due to Arri pins).I used to use a similar SR top-handle that connected onto a small Nato rail. That's maybe a second or two faster to fit and remove, but any difference is barely noticeable. It required a separate Nato rail to be fitted on top of cam cage and meant the handle wasn't always 100% exactly positioned (adjustment maybe +/- 3mm laterally). So I prefer this simpler, lighter solution.The handle is compact, relatively light at 123g and has multiple points for potentially mounting additional kit - like a small monitor, mike or light etc (best never to use a light mounted there - as that typically looks horrible).The top handle can easily be reversed too (ie handle points forward) to better balance a minimal size rig. If using 15mm rails, V-mount and other heavier kit, located further rearwards, then a rear facing position (as typically shown) would be better for most users.Only issue for me is the handle mounted top centre (ideal position) then conflicts with the Sony hot-shoe (multi-interface shoe), so any mike or receiver (typically Sony OEM sound kit) can't be used with this screwed top centre into a standard SmallRig camera cage (ie as found on most Sony alpha cams). That's inconvenient and I wish that SR would design a work around handle. But it's not a problem as I can wire non Sony mikes (or receivers) into the 3.5mm mike jack and locate a mike either above the handle or off to one side for scratch sound. If I'm using on a tripod then I can just use a digital mike and dispense with a top handle.Generally it's better (ie quality) to record sound separately, rather than direct into camera, but that requires a heap more kit (possibly a separate field recorder and/or time-code set-up) to do it well. As such that's starting to get beyond the scope of what this is - ie a light, quick top handle, for better rig balance and smoother movement, in a minimal rig hybrid type shoot scenario.

The SmallRig Lightweight NATO Top Handle has significantly elevated my filming experience. Its sleek and ergonomic design not only provides a comfortable grip but also adds a touch of professionalism to my camera setup. The NATO rail design ensures a quick and secure attachment, making it easy to mount or remove the handle effortlessly.Constructed with lightweight yet durable materials, this handle strikes a perfect balance between sturdiness and convenience. The multiple 1/4"-20 and 3/8"-16 mounting points offer endless possibilities for additional accessories, allowing me to customize my rig according to the needs of each shoot.One standout feature is the built-in cold shoe mount, perfect for attaching a microphone or monitor without the need for extra adapters. This handle has become an indispensable part of my kit, providing both versatility and ease of use during various filming scenarios.Whether you're a professional filmmaker or an enthusiast looking to enhance your rig, the SmallRig Lightweight NATO Top Handle is a must-have accessory that effortlessly combines form and function. Highly recommended for anyone seeking top-notch quality in their filmmaking gear.

I've been looking for a handle for my M50 mark 2 camera rig for a while now but didn't want to spend a fortune for one as I try to work on a budget. This one came in at £26 with the NATO rail included and was exactly what I was looking for. It has plenty of 3/8 mounting points 5 hot shoe mounts and even has an ARRI mounting point on the front if you choose to use it.The rubberized part of the handle ensures a decent grip and has been made to fit the fingers even for those like myself with larger hands. The unit itself fits very well onto my Smallrig cage and I have had no issues with it coming lose and rattling around.And the NATO has been designed so that even if the handle did come lose you precious equipment wouldn't go crashing to the floor which is an excellent safety feature. The unit doesn't weight much either so doesn't actually add much at all to the weight of my rig.For the price I paid and the features this handle has I'm very pleased with it. And for anyone looking for a good top handle at a very fair price I would definitely recommend giving this handle a look.