SmallRig SR009 Hands-on: HawkLock VCT-14 Type Shoulder Rig

by Mascha DeikovaApril 21^st, 2026

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This year at NAB 2026, SmallRig brought some of their freshly launched products for the hands-on experience. Among them is their brand-new HawkLock VCT-14 Type shoulder rig – SmallRig SR009 – which we had the chance to test in the video interview. Below, you’ll find out all about its key features, alongside its price and availability.

As Manny from SmallRig explains, the SR009 camera support system is an upgraded version of their SR007, which has been discontinued. They took the best features from the previous version and then introduced adjustments for smoother workflows. The main one: With the SmallRig SR009, you can now quickly and easily switch from a shoulder rig to a tripod setup without any additional tools.

SmallRig SR009: shoulder rig to a tripod

The idea behind this product was to remove the extra step that cinematographers need to go through when switching between shoulder and tripod modes. The built-in VCT-14 type adapter allows users to quickly attach and detach the entire system (including rods with everything sitting on them, in case you need them). Compared to its predecessor, this shoulder rig version also offers the possibility to quickly remove the handles when you switch to the tripod mount.

Flexible configuration of the handles

Generally speaking, flexibility is a keyword when talking about the SmallRig SR009. The front handles are also fully adjustable. You can change their position or extend them with just a quick push of a button. From the video demonstration at NAB, it looks super simple, quick, and easy to operate. This way, the cinematographer can adjust the handles to the unique camera positioning without taking the camera off the shoulder, and with no assistance needed. Which is definitely a benefit.

The handles also use standard ARRI rosette mounts. That means you can remove one of the handgrips and put on, say, a follow focus unit instead.

Pads of the SmallRig SR009

The SmallRig SR009 has two wide and thickened pads: a shoulder pad and a back pad for comfort during extended use. The bottom pad used to be fixed in position in the previous version of their shoulder rig. In the new system, you can adjust it, sliding it along the shoulder for better weight distribution.

The back pad is also not rigid. It stays fixed, but includes a slight swivel picot action to comfortably adjust itself on the operator’s back.

Mounting options

The SmallRig SR009 is equipped with multiple mounting points for flexible integration of various shooting accessories. On the handles, for instance, you will find 1/4″-20 threads that allow you to mount a monitor in front of you.

Other key features

• High capacity: This support system is designed to handle cinema camera rigs up to 20kg/44lb.
• Quick center-of-gravity adjustment: Dual quick-release plates allow 185mm/7.3in front-to-back fine-tuning for precise balance adjustment.
• Weight-reducing three-point support system for a stable fit.
• Aluminum, alloy, and stainless steel build for durability.

Price and Availability

The SmallRig “HawkLock” VCT-14 Type Shoulder Rig (SR009) is already available for purchase for $499.99. You can get more detailed information on the SmallRig SR009 on the official website.

What do you think about this shoulder rig and its flexibility, especially in switching between shoulder-mounted operation and tripod setup? Which features do you like about it most? Let us know in the comments!