UPDATE!

This design has been superseded (twice) by my new Pro 2 Model 4th Axis Stabilizer which produces at least 50% smoother footage.

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2689804

There's also a similarly smooth Compact Pro version made for phone and action cam gimbals here:-

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2689804

Here's a design for all you amateur and professional videographers out there!

The handheld gimbal stabilizer has been one of the most significant game changers for independent filmmakers allowing professional results whilst removing the need for tens of thousands of dollars worth of equipment.

But they still lack one vital ingredient, they don’t stabilize for up and down motion and rely on the filmmakers skill to minimise this motion with their arm.

This up and down vertical motion or Z ( or 4th ) axis motion isn’t always possible to reduce by hand especially with fast action or walking backwards.

That’s when I decided to build a Z axis stabilizer for handheld gimbals and after a number of design iterations I’m really happy with my Z Axis Gimbal Stabilizer with Fluid Dampening. It takes Gimbal cinematography to that next level!

Check out the showcase video here:- https://youtu.be/xOCkKlXSjO8

Check out the Assembly video here:- https://youtu.be/6a4sg2BikhE

################## UPDATE: ###################

1) There was an typo in one of the springs. Fortunately it's the spring less people would be using but I've updated the correct one in the post printing section. Sorry!
2) There's also an additional support added that's for larger or non symmetrical gimbal handles. It's called ZAS_holderFlat.stl
3) I've also given some more advice in the post printing section about setting up the fluid dampening that isn't covered in the DIY video.

Note:This Z axis stabilizer will handle light to heavy rigs. The only thing you need to change is the springs - Links to springs are in the 'Post Printing' section.

The full list of parts is found in the Post Printing section below.

You can check out my other designs here:-
https://www.thingiverse.com/ScottyMakesStuff/designs

You can see all my videos on my YouTube Channel, ScottyMakesStuff here:-
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChDeVchB6CCF--0wQQYNIhQ
https://twitter.com/ScottyMakesStuf
https://www.instagram.com/scottymakesstuff/