Distinguishing Flyer from Flyer LE

[Grant Peacock]

Hello all,

 

I recently purchased a used kit which was sold to me as the Flyer LE. Not having seen either version of the Flyer (My 1st Steadicam rig), I suspect but cannot confirm that this package is the Flyer. Can anyone help me with this?

 

Knowing that the post is C-fiber is not helpful in this case, as I don't know how obviously the post will look like C-fiber. The badge on the unit says only 'Steadicam Flyer'.

 

Any thoughts?

 

Grant.

[Victor Lazaro]

Well the difference IS the material in which the center post is made of. One is Aluminum, the other is carbon fiber. You should be able to tell which is which by looking and touching it. Carbon fiber post is grey, a bit shiny and has a fiber-y look, an aluminum looks black, anodized, matte and uniform. Carbon might also feel warmer to the touch than aluminum.

[James Puli]

It's very easy... The Flyer LE center post extends.

 

The original Flyer has a fixed center post.

 

I think there's a slightly different colour arm depending on the generation also, but otherwise they're pretty much the same!

[Peter Abraham]

Hey Grant- Congrats !! Indeed, the descriptions are true. Older Gen 1 Flyer had a fixed length post. Newer Flyer LE rigs are A) All black. Vest, arm and sled. B) Telescoping post. C) Different battery mount than the old ones.

 

I'm rediculously familiar with all of the generations of Flyer. I helped to design each of them in small ways and for a few years sold a ton of them as well. ( Steadicam Operator for 29 years, 5 years as Workshops Director and Salesperson for Tiffen Steadicam )

 

Feel free to email me with any questions at all ! Tons of little mods, things to look out for, ways to silences the squeaking, etc etc. Glad to help you !

 

Best,

Peter Abraham, S.O.C.

 

peter@steadicamproductionservices.com