First Thoughts on the Tactacam Stabilizer Mount
The Tactacam Stabilizer Mount is a simple yet crucial accessory for anyone looking to capture their hunting or outdoor adventures with a Tactacam camera. Shooting stable video is a challenge in dynamic environments, and this mount promises to provide a solution. It’s designed to work seamlessly with Tactacam‘s popular camera models, namely the 5.0, 4.0, Solo, and Solo Xtreme.
As someone who’s spent years filming hunts and outdoor excursions, I’m always looking for ways to improve the quality of my footage. The shaky, nauseating footage that often results from handheld camera work is a common problem I wanted to solve. I was particularly interested in a lightweight option that wouldn’t add significant bulk to my setup.
Upon receiving the Tactacam Stabilizer Mount, my first impression was positive. The flat black finish gives it a stealthy, tactical look, and it felt surprisingly solid for its weight. At only 4.4 ounces, it’s clear Tactacam prioritized minimizing the burden on the user.
Compared to other stabilization options like full-sized gimbals (bulky and battery-dependent) or chest harnesses (restrictive), the Tactacam Stabilizer Mount offers a middle ground. I considered a DIY solution with a generic tripod mount and weights, but the integrated design of the Tactacam mount seemed more appealing. I picked this over those other options for its apparent simplicity and ease of use.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The lightweight design raised a question mark: could something so light actually provide meaningful stabilization? My initial excitement was tempered by a need to see it perform in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tactacam Stabilizer Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Tactacam Stabilizer Mount during a turkey hunt in early spring. I mounted my Tactacam 5.0 to the stabilizer and attached the whole setup to my shotgun using the Picatinny rail mount (sold separately). This setup ensured I would be filming everything I saw.
The conditions were less than ideal: damp, muddy ground, and occasional light rain. I was moving frequently, trying to get ahead of a gobbling tom. The mount was easy to handle, even with gloves on. The Tactacam felt secure, and the added weight of the stabilizer was barely noticeable. After the first use I was pleasantly surprised with the smoothness of the footage, even when walking through uneven terrain.
One unexpected issue was that the stabilizer, being attached to the shotgun, moved with every movement of the firearm, creating unnecessary movement in the footage when I wasn’t actively tracking a target. This would take some getting used to.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use across various hunting scenarios, the Tactacam Stabilizer Mount has held up well. I’ve used it on both shotguns and rifles, filming everything from deer hunts to predator control outings.
The black finish has shown some minor scratches from brush and handling, but overall, the mount remains structurally sound. There are no signs of cracking or loosening of any components. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove mud or debris.
Compared to previous attempts at filming hunts using only the bare Tactacam, the stabilized footage is a significant improvement. It doesn’t completely eliminate shake, but it noticeably reduces it, creating more watchable video. The difference is significant enough that I wouldn’t consider filming without it now.
Breaking Down the Features of Tactacam Stabilizer Mount
Specifications
The Tactacam Stabilizer Mount is designed for use with Tactacam 5.0, 4.0, Solo, and Solo Xtreme cameras. The flat black mount weighs in at just 4.4 ounces, minimizing added weight. Its primary function is to securely hold your Tactacam camera, reducing shake and vibration during recording.
The weight is especially critical. Too heavy, and it becomes cumbersome; too light, and it loses its stabilization effect. The 4.4-ounce weight hits a sweet spot. A secure camera attachment ensures the camera doesn’t rattle or come loose during use.
Performance & Functionality
The Tactacam Stabilizer Mount does exactly what it’s designed to do: it smooths out the footage. It doesn’t provide the rock-solid stability of a gimbal, but it significantly reduces the jarring movements that plague handheld recordings. The mount excels in situations where you’re moving and shooting simultaneously, like tracking game or navigating rough terrain.
The primary strength is its simplicity and ease of use. It requires no batteries or complex setup. A minor weakness is that it only works with Tactacam cameras; it’s not a universal stabilization solution. However, it meets my expectation to provide more stable footage than shooting with just the camera alone.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tactacam Stabilizer Mount’s build quality is solid. The materials feel durable and well-assembled. The flat black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, reducing glare and blending in with hunting gear.
It’s exceptionally user-friendly. Simply attach the Tactacam to the mount, and you’re ready to go. The design is intuitive, with no complex adjustments or settings to worry about.
Durability & Maintenance
The Tactacam Stabilizer Mount feels built to last. The materials are resistant to impacts and weather. Given its simple design, there are few points of failure.
Maintenance is minimal. A periodic cleaning to remove dirt and grime is all that’s needed. I expect it to last for many seasons of use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tactacam Stabilizer Mount doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories. The key accessory, which is sold separately, is the Picatinny rail mount. This allows you to attach the stabilizer and camera to firearms or other equipment with a Picatinny rail.
The mount is designed specifically for Tactacam cameras, limiting customization options. While you can potentially adapt it for use with other action cameras using aftermarket adapters, this isn’t officially supported. The mount is compatible with the various Tactacam mounting accessories, allowing for flexible positioning.
Pros and Cons of Tactacam Stabilizer Mount
Pros
- Significantly reduces camera shake, improving video quality.
- Lightweight and compact, adding minimal bulk to your setup.
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to use, with no batteries or complex settings required.
- Stealthy flat black finish that blends in with hunting gear.
Cons
- Only compatible with Tactacam cameras.
- Stabilization is not as effective as a full gimbal system.
Who Should Buy Tactacam Stabilizer Mount?
The Tactacam Stabilizer Mount is perfect for hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to capture more stable footage with their Tactacam camera. It’s ideal for those who value simplicity and minimal added weight.
If you’re looking for professional-grade, gimbal-level stabilization, this might not be the right product for you. Those who demand the absolute smoothest footage, regardless of added bulk and complexity, should explore electronic gimbals.
A must-have accessory is the Tactacam Picatinny rail mount, which allows you to attach the stabilizer to firearms. Consider additional Tactacam mounts for different applications, such as tripods or tree mounts.
Conclusion on Tactacam Stabilizer Mount
The Tactacam Stabilizer Mount is a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about filming their hunts or outdoor adventures with a Tactacam camera. It’s not a magic bullet, but it significantly improves video quality by reducing camera shake.
At $36.49, the price is justified by the noticeable improvement in footage and the mount’s durable construction. It’s a relatively inexpensive way to enhance the viewing experience.
I would personally recommend the Tactacam Stabilizer Mount to any Tactacam user looking to take their footage to the next level. Don’t let shaky video ruin your memories; invest in the Tactacam Stabilizer Mount and start capturing smooth, watchable footage today.