Ball & Clamp Arms v. Loc Line ?

[2 Bar]

Is there a real difference in the way each performs while holding the strobe? Or is this just a preference? It seems to me the ball and clamp arm is more popular though at first glance the Loc Line seems the easieast and quickest way to make strobe position adjustments.

My other observation is Loc Line is more popular with video and balled arms are seen more with still photogs.

Anyway, I have the ULCS arm and handle w/ ball, and I have a clamp. I just orderd an Inon 200w and I am wondering before I get arms, more clamps, and adapters I am at a crossroads and have to make a pivotal decision in the roadmap with my gear.

So what are you accessments between the two arm styles for strobes?

 

[arenny]

I have used both, I got a locline and a strobe adaptor and "built" my own bendy arm. The advantages of the locline, IMHO, are that it is inexpensive compared to ULCS, you can bend them pretty easily underwater, you can fine tune the length better. The disadvantage is that they are not sturdy on land, if you have a heavy strobe, they tend to keep bending down and if you are boat diving and want someone to hand you the gear, I would be careful. The ULCS are more expensive but are better on land and sturdier. The weight of my strobe kept shifting the locline underwater. I also use a lens caddy which will only fit on the ULCS arms. So I decided to put my focus light on the locline arm on my tray and keep the ULCS system for my strobe and lens caddy. Seems to work really well for me. Hope that helps!

 

[Warren_L]

This discussion may prove interesting: Ball arm or Flex arm?

 

[Dee]

I've used both and prefer the Locline. Not only for cost but to me they are easier to position UW. As for topside, I fold the strobe over the top of the housing and it doesn't flop. The advantages UW far outweigh the topside disadvantage for me. I've never had a problem with anyone handing me my rig off the boat once I explain to use the tray handle or lanyard.

After using one Locline arm for about 5 years, it's starting to lose it's 'grip' in the most often adjusted segments. I spent $7 for 2 new 6" sections...voila! new arm.

It's mostly personal preference and the tpe of diving conditions you'll be in the most. I've never had problems in currents but others seem to have.

 

[Gilligan]

I use the locline arm and built it myself. I have no issues with it. The cost is far less than then arms.

Someone else (can't remember who) mentioned a way to strengthen the locline if it flops underwater. Place a section of clear plastic tubing inside the joints.

 

[2 Bar]

Is Loc Line cheap enough to do both? I was thinking of using it for the Devil's Throat. I could have the strobe in tight in the tunnel part and open it up wide in the cathedral.

 

[arenny]

Loc line is pretty cheap, the strobe adaptor for it costs $25 though...