These sandbags and counterweights are intended for use with microphone and lighting stands on location or in a studio, to provide extra mass to help balance a boom or simply to keep stands stable.
Available in three sizes; small (G100), medium (G200-1), and large (G300), and made of ballistic nylon, these sand bags have two pockets which are accessed by the hook-and-loop strips which act as fasteners. A central, reinforced, area forms a 'spine' separating the two pockets so the entire assembly can be hung over a horizontal bar or equipment leg in the manner of a saddle-bag. A nylon webbing handle is attached to this; as is a steel D-ring at one end of the spine and at the other a swivelling sprung hook (called a swivel bolt snap apparently) to clip to items with a suitable ring, such as some Manfrotto tripod mounted-booms.
Note: The sand bags are supplied empty. Sand is not included. Sadly, even though Manfrotto is headquartered in Italy, not far from the exquisite white sands bordering the Adriatic, international shipping costs preclude the inclusion of Italian designer sand. However, in the tradition established by the sellers of designer bags, it is the chic Manfrotto external appearance and the impressive bag functionality that counts, regardless of the contents.
Surprisingly a quick trip to a local DIY warehouse will reveal an astonishing array of alternatives to designer white sand. These include Sharp, Paving, Building, recycled-glass and even White sand, often in handy plastic bags. Alternatively, consider gravel or road grit.
172 Mini counterweight
A 1.4kg brightly coloured iron counter weight balance that clamps onto tube diameters of 13mm to 30mm. A locking thumb screw allows for fastening.
Like 172 Mini counterweight however offers 4.3kg in counter balance, and clamps onto tube diameters of 22mm to 35mm.
Like 023 L-Peso counterweight however offers 6.7kg in counter balance.