PNC DSLR Camera Gearbox GB-2 Video Accessory Cage Comes W/ 15mm Rod

My biggest question when buying this was if my 5D mk III would fit with the battery grip attached. Based on other reviews, I did not think it would, and I was right. PNC does sell additional extenders, but they are $17. Also, others complained about the use of allen wrenches and bolts. I found a simple solution to both, so I thought I'd share it. A quick trip to the local hardware store is all you need to get two 1/4 x 20 coupler nuts, and two 1/4 x20 x 1 1/12 inch machine screws. The screws will replace the allen screws attaching the bottom bracket to the side rails / handles. The screw then threads through the coupler nut and into the extension that is supplied with the bracket. This $3 solution solves both problems - there is enough additional extension to allow for the battery grip, and you no longer need to carry an allen wrench. As for the rest of the cage - it seems very good so far. The cut-outs for viewing the top of the camera don't line up well with my 5D, and I would have been fine with additional mounting holes, but oh well.

Cage is nice and has the ability to extend the height with extra adapters (purchased separately through EBay) to accommodate many types of cameras. The problem is the handles which are absolute garbage. Top section of one of them crumbled away in less than a year after using it only a few times on a tripod in no stress environments. Thankfully it did not happen during a shoot. Just ordered a pair of aluminum handles from Camvate to replace. Extra $50 to do this so I do not recommend this cage unless your willing to spend the extra money to make it reliable. Newer makes a similar model for cheaper but it looks like the camera screw knob is plastic. On this one it is metal.

Great starter rig. It has a nice feel to it and seems to be pretty well made. One thing I ran into was that all the screws and the extensions on the rig all came REALLY tight and I had to use a vise to get them out. One other issue was that I tried to attach a Smallrig handle that I like more than theirs to it and the holes were in odd places so it doesn't quite fit. I am getting a cheese plate to attempt to fix that problem though. All in all good product.

For the price and what you get it's a great deal. I have a Canon 70D mounted and yes it's a big cage, lots of room to mount extras. Made really well, solid feel and balanced with my camera mounted. I'll get a lot of use out of it. Even when mounted, I can use the flip out LCD screen on my 70D without any interference with the cage.Just one small FYI, the battery door on my 70D does bump into the red thumb screw adjustment for the right-hand side rail. Enough I can't pop out the battery without loosen the camera body. But quick work around, I replace the red thumb screw with a monitor mount screw (you can use really any screw you want), this was just enough to allow the battery door to open fully. Not a big deal in my mind, because this is not a custom cage. What I love is I can access everything, the SD Card door, mic input and monitor output, etc. If you're looking for a cage at a good price, this is an option, works for me!

Gooey, Sticky handles!!!!!Good over all design, but super cheap handles that over time become really nasty!!!

Rock solid construction, fits the t4i and the 5D Mark III. I have both, and absolutely love this rig. I shoot handheld, and I also attach a monopod to the bottom sometimes. I also attach a quick release plate on the bottom and attach this whole rig to a tripod. The take it off for hand held shooting. I've put lights, monitors, and H4N recorders on this rig, and it's the best for the money. It's the best period, I haven't seen a more expensive rig this style....that was anything less than this rig. I fully endorse it! I have been using this thing for months.I leave it assembled, though you can take it apart. I have yet to use the rails with a follow focus...spending all my money in glass. Oh and I'm a video guy, I mainly shoot events, bands, ect. Whether you have the coin for budget or pro gear, this is definitely something you want in your kit.

The media could not be loaded.  If you want great stability, the ability to add multiple accessories, quality craftsmanship, and great looks then the PNC Gearbox GB-2 is the cage for you. I used this with a Canon 70D, a monitor, a mic, and a led light on a shoot at a convention center. Everything was stable and my shots looked great! Along with a monopod I was able to get rock solid shots and video. I purchased the extensions to get a little lift on the cage and was able to place my  Canon EOS 70D Digital SLR Camera with 18-135mm STM Lens  on a battery grip and a mic amp in the cage. The rods make it easy to add a matte box to get unwanted light out of the lens. I would recommend this product. The video review will give you greater insight on the product.

The only reason for not giving 5 stars is that I wish the tripod screen point would be closer to the center of gravity of the assemble structure with a camera. To better balance it, I purchased another based plate and installed it (connected to the 15mm rods) right in front of the original base plate. Now it is perfect! Worth the price for sure.