Benro AC-33 Short Column Review

A short tripod center column is usually helpful when we want to shoot very low.

With a length of 12cm (4.72") Benro AC-33 gets really low, given that the tripod legs are expanded to their widest angle.

Benro AC-33 short column is made of Aluminium compatible with the Benro A-2xx series of tripods and you may buy it in two versions.

One version includes just the tube with 3/8"-16 threaded holes at both sides and the full version comes with a top plate and a reversible dual thread 1/4"-20- 3/8"-16 screw stud.

The Short Column
Presented here is the full complete version, plus an extra screw hook for hanging an extra weight like a camera case in order to increase the tripod's stability.

Benro AC-33 comes boxed without any instructions, wrapped in a nylon bubble sheet.
(The bottom spring loaded screw hook shown here is an extra accessory).

The full version comes with a 56 mm top mounting plate and a reversible stud already attached.

If you already have a long center column with a removable bottom screw hook you can use the existing one. Otherwise if you are the owner of a Benro A-298EX Versatile Tripod which has the bottom hook permanently attached to the center column (like mine) then you may order one spare.

The top mounting plate is identical to the current A-2xx series tripod top plate and has also three small head-less screws on the perimeter for securing the head to be attached.

Taken apart showing the top mounting plate and the reversible dual thread stud made of stainless-steel.
The column tube has a longitudinal anti-twist groove matching the Benro A Series Classic Tripod design.
(The appropriate spanner needed for tightening / loosening the top plate hex nut is part of the tripod package).

There is nothing special with a center column really, but the reason I present it, is as reference for my other articles where I will try to show alternative uses if combined with the right equipment. Like a very cost effective...

Alternative Gimbal head

I hope you found the information useful. Thank you for viewing.
All Photos: © 2010 S.C.Vlachos

Availability:
Benro short center columns are available from eBay

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