Manfrotto 035 Ftc Super Clamp (universal clamp for bars and plates up to 55 mm)

What it’s for (and why people buy it)

A Super Clamp is one of those tools you end up using more often than expected—because it turns “I wish I could mount this” into “sorted”. The Manfrotto 035 FTC Super Clamp is a universal clamp designed to screw onto bars or plates, letting you attach compatible accessories without needing a dedicated mounting point.

On paper, it’s built for flexibility: you can use it on bars/plates within the stated diameter range, and it relies on standard screw connections rather than proprietary rails. That makes it particularly useful when you’re rigging a small setup, repositioning kit frequently, or building repeatable mounting points across different gear.

What to know about mounting and size range

The key decision factor here is the clamp opening and what it can grip. This model is specified for a max round size of 2.17 inch (55 mm) and a min round size of 0.51 inch (13 mm). If your bars, rails, plates, or frames fall inside that window, the clamp should be able to secure properly.

Connection-wise, it mentions: - A hexagonal 5/8 inch connection - A 1/4 inch socket - An M5 thread

That combination matters because it gives you more ways to mate it to different accessories, assuming you have the right adaptor/bolt where needed. One limitation to keep in mind: it says suitable adaptors and bolts are available in optional accessories, but it doesn’t list exactly which ones you’ll need for your specific setup—so checking your existing threads/connections before buying is worth doing.

Build and usability: what you’ll notice day to day

The clamp is made from aluminium, and it’s finished in black. It’s not described as “lightweight” in marketing terms, but the stated weight is 0.90 lbs (0.41 kg), which is manageable for kit bags.

The opening range (min and max round sizes) and the way it connects via 5/8 inch, 1/4 inch, and M5 thread points suggest it’s aimed at practical workshop or on-location rigging. You’re basically buying a stable intermediary mount: a way to attach something to a bar/plate when there’s no perfect built-in support.

Where it can feel slightly less straightforward is if you’re trying to use it immediately with unknown hardware. If your accessory doesn’t match the listed connection types, you may need that optional adaptor approach. It’s not “bad”, but it can add a step.

Load rating: what “15 kg” means in real use

The stated load is 33.07 lbs (15 kg). That gives it some headroom for typical mounting needs, but remember that load ratings on clamps are only one part of safe rigging. How you position the load, leverage/arm length, and whether anything is tightened evenly can make a difference.

It’s a solid figure on the label, but if you’re planning to hang heavier or awkwardly loaded equipment, you’ll want to be conservative with how far you extend things and double-check your mounting compatibility.

Tech specs that affect buying decisions

Tech specs

• Type: Super Clamp (universal clamp)
• Material: Aluminium
• Colour: Black
• Weight: 0.90 lbs (0.41 kg)
• Load: 33.07 lbs (15 kg)
• Min clamp opening (round): 0.51 inch (13 mm)
• Max clamp opening (round): 2.17 inch (55 mm)
• Connection: hexagonal 5/8 inch
• Connection: 1/4 inch socket
• Thread: M5
• Notes: suitable adaptors and bolts are referenced as optional accessories

Who it suits (and who should look elsewhere)

This clamp makes sense if you often work with bars/plates and want a versatile way to attach accessories using the connection types listed (5/8 inch, 1/4 inch, and M5 thread). It’s the sort of thing you’d consider for studio builds, media rigs, or any setup where the mounting points vary.

It’s not the best choice if your bar/plate diameter sits outside 13–55 mm, or if your accessories use a different connection standard and you don’t want to hunt for adaptors. In those cases, you may spend time solving fit issues rather than getting your setup done.

Buying verdict

If you’re within the 13–55 mm grip range and your accessory can connect via 5/8 inch, 1/4 inch, or M5 (or you’re willing to use the optional adaptor route), the Manfrotto 035 FTC Super Clamp is a practical, flexible mount that can save you a lot of rigging hassle. It’s not an “all-in-one magic clamp” because adaptors may still be needed, but it’s a sensible mid-category tool for common mounting scenarios.

Worth considering if you prioritise versatility on location and the ability to reposition kit without changing the whole stand or base.

You may want to skip it if your hardware doesn’t match the listed connections, or if your mounting surfaces are outside the stated opening range.

Mini FAQ

Mini FAQ

Can I use it on both bars and plates?

It’s described as a universal clamp that can be screwed onto bars or plates, as long as the diameter range matches the stated min/max round sizes.

What size fittings does it clamp?

The specification lists a min round size of 0.51 inch (13 mm) and a max round size of 2.17 inch (55 mm).

What connection types does it support?

It references a hexagonal 5/8 inch connection, a 1/4 inch socket, and an M5 thread.

What if my accessory doesn’t match those connections?

The product notes that suitable adaptors and bolts can be found in optional accessories, so you may need extra parts to bridge connection types.

Is the stated load enough?

The load is listed as 33.07 lbs (15 kg). It’s a useful reference point, but safe use depends on how the equipment is arranged and tightened—especially if you’re extending the load on an arm.