BLKBRD Mantis Quad Tube Deluxe: What You Should Know

This month, we’re highlighting a clever bit of support gear that’s been getting a lot of attention on set: the BLCKBRD Mantis Quad Tube Deluxe. If you’re working with heavier handheld or EasyRig builds and want smoother movement without sacrificing mobility, this is a piece of kit worth knowing about.

What Is the Mantis Quad Tube Deluxe?

The BLCKBRD Mantis is a modular bungee-based camera stabilisation system designed to reduce vertical bounce and operator fatigue when shooting handheld or with support vests like an EasyRig. It acts as a kinematic dampener, helping to smooth out footsteps and subtle body movement so your footage feels more controlled and cinematic.

The Quad Tube Deluxe configuration is the most versatile version of the system. It adds an extra circuit of elastic, which increases the boom range, widens the neutral “sweet spot,” and improves overall vertical stabilisation.

Built for Real Production Payloads

One of the key advantages of this system is its payload flexibility. A single Mantis unit can support camera builds from around 5 to 38 lbs, while two units used together can handle heavier cinema setups up to roughly 70 lbs.

That makes it suitable for anything from compact handheld rigs to fully built-out cinema cameras with matte boxes, follow focus, and onboard power.

The kit includes multiple elastic strengths (light, medium, and heavy), allowing you to tune the tension based on your exact camera weight.

Designed to Work With Your Existing Rig

The Mantis Quad Tube Deluxe is designed to integrate easily into common production workflows. It can be mounted directly to an EasyRig using the supplied adapter, or attached to speedrail for more custom setups.

It also includes Mag Lock hooks and a universal hook adapter, letting you securely attach the camera while still being able to tilt and rebalance quickly.

This flexibility makes it ideal for operators who frequently switch between shoulder-height and low-angle operating without wanting to constantly reconfigure their support system.

Why Operators Are Using It

The Mantis helps deliver smoother tracking shots while reducing strain on the operator during long shooting days. By increasing the neutral zone and improving vertical isolation, it allows you to move more freely while maintaining a stable frame.

For productions that rely heavily on handheld movement but still want a controlled, polished look, it sits nicely between fully handheld operation and larger stabilisation rigs.

Available to Hire at Aimimage

The BLCKBRD Mantis Quad Tube Deluxe is now available to hire from Aimimage as part of our grip and support range. It’s a smart addition for shoots that need mobility, stability, and flexibility without moving to a full gimbal or Steadicam setup.

If you’re planning a handheld-heavy project or building out an EasyRig configuration, this kit is well worth considering.