Every industry has a few unique tools that are just great for getting a lot of stuff done. Some years back, I was exposed to the great variety of tools used in the entertainment production industry.

The very best of these tools have universal appeal but are often unknown outside of the circles of that industry.

Such is the versatility of C-stands. (C apparently stands for “Century” referring to a nominal height of 100 inches extended). These are used in production for holding up lights, light modifiers, and the like.

I use them for all kinds of things – holding up a projector, keeping a target in place, as an improvised microphone or music stand, etc. Once you have a couple in your garage you will always be thinking of something to use them for. Need to hold up a backdrop for making a video? Done! Need to direct a ceiling drip into a bucket with a funnel and hose? Done! Need to hold your GPS module right near the ceiling for better signal? Done!

Their design is very clever. The legs are of slightly different heights which allows the stand to fold down to a planar object for transport. These heights also allow you to place two stands right next to one another, within the envelope of the legs. The 40-inch stand it rated to hold 22 lbs and extends to a maximum height of 10.5 feet.

They come in a variety of sizes and styles, and usually are available in chrome and black. Some units include a boom arm, and some units let one of the legs slide up the main pole to allow for placement in unusual environments.

The downside of their professional quality and ruggedness is cost and weight. These are not something you want to take backpacking. They generally cost between $100 and $200 depending on the brand, size, and features.

This is just the beginning – film grips also have lots of other goodies in their tool belts, including gaffer’s tape, apple boxes, saddlebag sand bags, and all kinds of modular clamps, booms, and stands. Check out filmtools.com if you have a few hours to browse…

-- Dev Kumar 10/13/15