Modular Mini Tripod with Arca-Swiss and GoPro Mounts

Print all parts in the stiffest material possible. ABS, PETG, or PLA will likely be OK for light loads, but fiber-reinforced material (nylon, etc) is strongly recommended for any serious use. I used Polymaker glass fiber-reinforced nylon 6 (PA6-GF25) for the load-bearing parts and PETG for the knobs. When printed in this material, it can easily hold a 1kg camera steady enough for the majority of use cases.

The tripod base and quick release clamp both use GoPro compatible mounting points, so this tripod can be customized with other GoPro-compatible mounting hardware, potentially at the expense of rigidity. I found that the included 52mm long central arm was ideal for maximizing the range of camera positions possible without sacrificing too much stiffness. The 3D printed camera clamp is compatible with all Arca-Swiss style quick release plates, not just the one included.

Assembly Instructions

Two M5x12 button head cap screws and two M5 hex nuts are needed for the tripod base. Press the nuts into the nut block and assemble as shown in the photos. 

One M5x20 socket head cap screw and one M5 hex nut are needed for each friction joint. Insert the screw into the knob as far as it will go and thread an M5 hex nut onto the end. Use a hex key or screwdriver to hold the screw, preventing it from turning relative to the knob, and tighten the hex nut using a wrench to press the screw head into the knob. The inside of the knob has ribs that are designed to permanently deform and grip the screw head.

One M3x50 socket head cap screw, one M3 hex nut, and one spring (approx. 25mm long uncompressed, 5-7mm diameter; optional) are needed for the Arca-Swiss quick release clamp. Press the nut into the hexagonal hole in the 3D printed part (use the screw for assistance if needed) and assemble as shown in the photos.

One ¼-20 x 5/16in tripod screw is needed for the quick release plate.