Can this Manfrotto adjustable arm support my camera?

[ChasP505]

I have a neurological condition which has me using a wheelchair and I have little strength left in my arms.  I want to get some kind of rig that will clamp onto the frame of my wheelchair, can be adjusted to place the camera at nearly my face level, and accept a camera quick release.  The the Manfrotto 244RC Variable Friction Magic Arm with QR seems to fit the bill.  I already have a Bogen Super Clamp.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=554345&Q=&is=REG&A=details

Does anyone have experience with this equipment?  I am concerned about the load capacity.  I use a Canon 450D with battery grip and the Canon 17-55 2.8 IS USM lens.  That would be the heaviest load.

[leuallen]

Sounds like a good idea BUT you might have problems locking the Magic Arm in place. I have one of the models and it is very difficult to turn the knob that locks the arm in place. It might just be my particular unit, others can chime in with their results. As a result, I rarely use mine.

Manfrotto makes a dual rod articulated arm (396B-3) as well as a single rod model. The dual rod model might be sturdy enough but I don't have a camera heavy enough to test, m4/3 user. The dual rod model should be easy enough to lock into position.

Check B&H, search 'articulated arm".

Larry

[Dustbak]

I use those magic arms all the time. The ones that have the variable adjustment are the ones to use. There is also one with only a handle but I would pass on that one. The variable friction arm can take quite some weight provided you do not stretch out the arm entirely.

I use it to hold flags and flashheads. I use Nikon so I cannot tell you about the Canon but I would be able to put my D700 on it with the 24-70. I would make sure though to keep the arm from stretching too far.

I have several of the RC244 version, all of them work smoothly. The knob should not be hard to tighten or loosen.

I also have the dual rod arm. I would prefer the RC244 when possible since it allows you more freedom of movement.

You could also use 2 RC244 arms and attach them on both sides of your wheel chair and connect 1 camera plate to both arms. However I do think one arm should be able to do it.

[Rhossydd]

Yes, the variable friction arm is a great bit of kit and probably very useful to you.
Some people fail to understand the difference between the standard "magic arm" which locks with a single lever throw (but which can be very stiff) and the "variable fiction magic arm". This just slowly tightens as the locking knob is rotated. The load it can take securely is proportional to the amount of effort put into the locking knob, but your kit is very light weight compared to the sort of loads it's designed to carry(heavy lighting kit).
I've had no problems using it with a EOS 1Ds II & 70-200 f2.8 which I'd guess must be almost twice the weight of your proposed kit, so you should be well within it's 'comfort zone'.

[ChasP505]

Thanks all for your responses.  I also found a few reviews on B&H from people using the equipment exactly as I propose to.  One thing that I thought would be obvious from the context, is that I'll have assistance (from my wife) with setting up and adjusting the arm hardware.  And, of course, I'll be using a remote shutter release.

Thanks once again.  I'll let you know how I make out as there must be many others with similar needs as mine.