Manfrotto Fluid Drag 500 A tripod
Description
The Manfrotto 500A Fluid Drag Tripod System is a professional video tripod setup engineered to deliver lightweight agility alongside rock-solid camera support. Purpose-built for independent filmmakers, event videographers, and mobile journalists, this system is optimized for compact cinema rigs, mirrorless cameras, and heavy DSLR setups up to 5 kg (11 lbs).
Featuring a wide fluid drag head platform, the 500A distributes rig weight evenly and utilizes fixed fluid cartridges on both the pan and tilt axes to guarantee smooth, professional cinematic transitions. The head comes equipped with a side-lock quick-release system, allowing the camera plate to snap in securely from above rather than requiring alignment from the back. Built from high-quality aluminum, the 2-stage tripod legs feature fast-acting flip levers for rapid height adjustment in the field, a built-in bubble spirit level for precise leveling, and a mid-level spreader configuration that ensures structural stability on uneven or slick terrain.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 5 kg (11 lbs) |
| Fluid Head Base Mount | 60 mm Half Ball Mount |
| Counterbalance System | Fixed preset at 2.4 kg (5.3 lbs) |
| Fluid Drag Type | Fixed cartridges (Pan & Vertical Tilt axes) |
| Tilt Movement Range | -70 degrees to +90 degrees |
| Pan Movement Range | 360 degrees continuous rotation |
| Camera Plate System | Side-lock quick release mechanism (Includes 500PLONG plate with 1/4″-20 and 3/8″-16 camera screws) |
| Tripod Material Construction | High-grade anodized aluminum legs |
| Leg Sections & Lock Type | 2-stage extension legs with quick-action flip levers |
| Spreader Layout | Integrated mid-level telescoping spreader |
| Leveling Indicator | Built-in bubble spirit level |
| Accessory Attachment Mount | 1x 3/8″-16 Easy Link connection thread on head chassis |
| System Operational Height Range | 67.5 cm to 154 cm (26.6 inches to 60.6 inches) |
| Closed Travel Length | 72 cm (28.3 inches) when collapsed |
| Total System Structural Weight | 3.1 kg (6.8 lbs) |