A very nice and useful, if at times finicky addition to the fantastic 9.Solutions system.
Both the build quality and the finish of the 9.Solutions clamps are fantastic! Comparing this clamp with the ones by the well-established players, I deeply appreciate the economics behind this clamp: Kudos to 9.Solutions for having figured out how to deliver such a well-manufactured clamp at a price point that is competitive with clamps that have been manufactured for decades, in huge volumes, and with less precision.
Before purchasing this particular version of the Python clamp, one should be aware that the two sides do not lock independently. The entire clamping force for both sides is applied by tightening the single large main nut on the side of the Python clamp. The small screw on the side with the 16 mm (5/8") and 10 mm (3/8") pass-thru is not load bearing and only serves as an auxiliary support, as is common for 16 mm sockets for baby-pins.
In addition to locking the two sides of the clamp, the main nut serves a third function: Due to the clever modular design of the Python clamp, its elements (7 in total plus three washers) sit independently along the main threaded rod. While the clamp is open these elements are held in position only by the force of two small springs. It is only the force applied by the large main nut that locks the elements of the clamp itself into position.
It is this triple function of the main nut that is the main downside of the clamp. While tightening down the clamp you need to hold the two elements you wish to connect as well as the clamp itself in the desired position. Depending on the situation and your experience this can range from being easy to tricky.
While this is not a downside, I do think that this clearly points at the use cases for which this clamp is best suited. Not so much for holding main lights and camera gear, but excellent for ad-hoc attachment of additional gear. I use this clamp to quickly attach pocket sized light-weight LED lamps with a goose-neck and a baby pin to table tops, monitor arms, or microphone stands. I do not think that I ever exceed 10% of the stated max load capacity of 20kg. However, I am confident that an experienced team (with more hands) can easily integrate this clamp in more complex set-ups that approach the max weight limit.
The true beauty of the 9.Solutions system is that there are many ways to achieve the same result. As an alternative to this Python clamp with grip joint, you might want to consider purchasing two separate elements: The Python clamp 3/8" male thread (Item number 373517) together with the Grip Joint (Item number 373531). While rotating the alignment of the grip joint by 90 degrees relative to the Python clamp, this would give you the ability to independently lock the two sides in place as well as giving you the option to use the two elements separately in entirely different configurations. It is this flexibility where the 9.Solutions system delivers immense added value. Superb!
