Lightweight Stability : The novoflex Pistock-C

During my search for solutions to make photography lighter/easier or to create greater stability without adding much bulk or weight, I came across this small rifle-like chest support. It was originally designed to support long and heavy Novoflex telephoto lenses from the analog era, but conveniently, it is also usable for digital setups. Its compactness and light weight, while still providing reasonable stability, are its main advantages.

Novoflex Factory specifications :

The Novoflex Pistock C is an innovative and lightweight alternative to traditional gimbals for modern digital cameras, specifically designed to provide stability when using long Novoflex lenses. Weighing just 450g (1 lb) and measuring 11.4×11.8 inches (29×30 cm), it’s perfect for dynamic shooting scenarios where monopods and tripods might be impractical or prohibited.

This multi-purpose chest support begins as a comfortable neck strap, transitioning into a wide rubberized base that rests on your chest. An attached arm features a swiveling plate with a 1/4″-20 screw for easy attachment to your lens’s tripod collar. For medium fast telephoto lenses, such as the 85mm f/1.2 or f/1.4, you can attach it to the camera’s bottom, creating a stable triangle of vibration-reducing support.

The Pistock C can be used alone or in conjunction with a quick release adapter, allowing for swift switching between equipment. Its lightweight construction and intuitive design make it ideal for capturing sharp images in environments where tripods are restricted, enhancing mobility without sacrificing stability. This makes the Novoflex Pistock C an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their photography experience.

Personal experience :

More than a tripod or monopod, this rifle stock-like support provides stability for photography and, even more so, for video making when needed. Its advantage lies in its small size and its ability to be adjusted (within limits) to suit your needs. You can simply leave it attached without it getting in the way—unlike tripods, which you often need to detach – The keyword here is ‘Being Mobile’ !

The stock section, which includes the rubber support, can be adjusted to either a vertical or horizontal position, depending on your preference. Also, the angle between the rifle stock and the camera/lens combination can easily be adjusted with a rotary knob. The metal rod that connects the stock to the mounting plate is extendable and can be adjusted to fit the length of your arm. Additionally, the rod has a slight bend in the middle, which can be rotated upwards, downwards, inwards, or outwards to suit your needs.

In summary, this is a small and lightweight tool with a surprising number of adjustment options.

Personally, I find it especially useful when I want to photograph or film for extended periods without tiring my arms. It also helps me capture steady footage with minimal movement.

The price is comparable to that of an inexpensive tripod or monopod. The new price is (was) $200, but nowadays you can find them on various second-hand sites like eBay for half or less. I bought my support for slightly more, at €139, because it was still brandnew in the box and I found the price acceptable for this handy support tool.

Article Update – December 24

A reader asked about the mounting plate used to attach a lens or camera to a shoulder rig. Here’s a detailed explanation:

At the bottom of the shoulder rig, the mounting plate features a toothed, round screw approximately 30mm in diameter. This screw also has an internal thread, but it’s sized at 3/8″. To adapt it for 1/4″ accessories, small adapters are available.

This setup allows you to attach additional support, such as a handle or even a monopod, for improved stability.

The three photos below show the top, side, and underside of the plate, providing a clearer view of what I mean.

Conclusion:

A tripod can be useful in some cases or even indispensable, such as in astrophotography. However, when it comes to maintaining mobility, like in bird and wildlife photography, this accessory is a must-have tool. It can remain mounted, is small, and weighs very little. In return, you get a highly stable support for a relatively low cost.

This article was written by Marc R.
While I primarily speak Dutch and have some knowledge of English and a little French, ChatGPT helps ensure my writing is grammatically correct. I often mix Dutch and English in my drafts, and ChatGPT steps in to translate and correct.