By technical editor Matt Allard:
Aviator Camera Gear have just released their new Rocket Travel Slider and Carbon Fiber Travel Tracks.
After starting out as a Kickstarter campaign the Rocket slider and accessories are now available to the general public.
According to Aviator the Rocket Travel Slider gives smooth, professional dolly shots up to 10 feet (304cm) long. It is easily transportable and it sets up in minutes. Two, four, six or ten foot lengths are all possible using The Rocket.
The Rocket Base Kit weighs just 3½ lbs (supporting loads up to 45 lbs) and compacts down into a deluxe padded case about the size of a shoe box. They claim it easily supports high-end pro cameras like the Epic, Sony F55, HDSLR’s, Blackmagic Cinema Camera and more. It is also compatible with a fully-rigged Aviator Travel Jib.
The Basic kit works with the carbon fiber Travel Tracks (bought separately) for lightweight and compact portability. Alternatively you can use the Rocket Base Kit with standard conduit (PVC) pipe available at most hardware stores. It can also be used with most metal conduit pipe with an outside diameter of 28mm to 32mm. In the USA it’s called 1 inch EMT pipe.
The Rocket Travel Slider is now in stock and can be delivered almost anywhere in the world in 3 days or less. RRP is $497 US. The optional carbon fibre travel tracks are also $497 US.
Another new product is the $125 US Aviator Micro Hi-Hat that is claimed to be the world’s most compact and light weight 75mm Hi-Hat.
You can level a 75mm bowl (also called “half ball”) mount fluid head on your Rocket Travel Slider. The Micro Hi-Hat can also be mounted to most photo tripods, or attached to a board for the lowest of low angle shots.
For a limited time they are offering a free Stubby Handle (compatible with 3/8 16 threaded bowls) with any purchase of a Hi-Hat.
NOTE: Hi-Hat is compatible with all 75mm bowl mounts. Bonus Stubby Handle only works with 3/8 16 threaded. If your bowl uses different size threads you will need to use your own short handle.
While there are many slider options out there in the market place it’s good to see another design approach to what has rapidly become an essential camera accessory.
For more information you can visit their website.
