Cartoni Ragno Pod Announced – Portable Tripod Riser with 100kg Payload, 629mm Elevation

Tripod News

by Nino LeitnerDecember 4^th, 2025

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Italian camera support manufacturer Cartoni has unveiled the Ragno Pod, a portable tripod riser designed to elevate camera setups by over two feet while maintaining rock-solid stability. Built from aviation-grade aluminum and capable of supporting payloads up to 100kg, the Ragno Pod targets professional operators covering live events, sports, news, and performances where shooting above crowds is essential.

Cartoni, the Rome-based family business celebrating 90 years in the industry, continues to expand beyond fluid heads and tripod legs into specialized camera support solutions. We visited the Cartoni factory a couple of years ago (check out our factory tour video here) and witnessed firsthand the company’s commitment to precision engineering and innovation. The Ragno Pod represents a new product category for the manufacturer, addressing a specific need for event videographers who require additional height without sacrificing stability.

Elevation and construction

The Ragno Pod raises your existing tripod setup by 629mm (24.76 inches), providing that crucial vantage point when shooting over crowds at concerts, conferences, sporting events, or house of worship productions. The riser weighs 9kg (19.84 lbs) and supports a maximum payload of 100kg (220.46 lbs), which should accommodate virtually any broadcast or cinema camera setup with fluid head.

Cartoni constructed the Ragno Pod from aviation-grade aluminum, balancing lightweight portability with the rigidity required for stable operation. The wide tripod footprint accommodates popular tripods equipped with floor spreaders, built-in spreaders, or rubber feet. A footprint diameter of 1343mm (52.87 inches) at minimum height ensures a stable base even with heavy payloads.

Leveling and locking mechanism

One of the practical considerations when working on location is uneven flooring. Cartoni addressed this with a single adjustable leg that allows operators to level the platform quickly on surfaces that aren’t perfectly flat. A patented secure locking mechanism keeps all three legs firmly in place during operation, preventing any unwanted movement that could compromise shot stability.

The height adjustment stroke of 220mm (8.66 inches) provides flexibility in positioning, while the overall dimensions of 727.5 x 705 x 91mm (28.64 x 27.76 x 3.58 inches) keep the collapsed unit reasonably portable. Setup reportedly takes just minutes, which is critical for run-and-gun event coverage where time is always limited.

Optional operator platform

Cartoni offers a separate foldable operator platform as an optional accessory. This anti-slip standing surface allows operators to position themselves at the elevated camera height for proper viewfinder operation. The platform weighs 6kg (13.23 lbs) and attaches to the Ragno Pod for transport.

The key design decision here is keeping the platform separate from the tripod base. This isolation minimizes vibration transfer from operator movement to the camera, helping maintain steady shots even when the operator shifts weight or adjusts position. The platform folds flat and fits into the available padded carrying case alongside the Ragno Pod itself.

Carrying case and system packages

Cartoni offers a padded carrying case weighing 1.5kg (3.31 lbs) with dimensions of 75 x 75 x 11cm (29.5 x 29.5 x 4.3 inches). The case accommodates both the Ragno Pod and the optional operator platform, making transport between locations more manageable.

For simplified purchasing, Cartoni bundles the components into system packages. The KT800 kit includes the Ragno Pod tripod riser with the carrying case, while the KT801 package adds the foldable operator platform to the bundle. Individual components are also available separately for operators who may already own some accessories or prefer to customize their setup.

Who is this for?

The Ragno Pod clearly targets a specific segment of professional operators. News crews covering press conferences, sports videographers shooting from behind barriers, live event producers capturing performances, and house of worship media teams all encounter situations where standard tripod height simply isn’t sufficient. Rather than resorting to precarious solutions or expensive camera pedestals, the Ragno Pod offers a portable alternative that sets up quickly and breaks down for transport.

Cartoni products carry the warranty registration program that extends coverage by two additional years, consistent with their other professional support equipment.

Are you looking for a portable elevation solution for your event coverage work, and does the 100kg payload capacity cover your typical camera setups? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!