A standard Matthews C-stand is rated to hold 22 lb (10 kg). That rating applies to the 20", 40", sliding-leg, spring-loaded, turtle-base and Hollywood Pro models. The 20" "Punky" is rated 15 lb. For loads above 22 lb, or for lights on a junior pin, use a combo stand, which Matthews rates from 50 lb to 90 lb depending on the model.
Matthews C-stand ratings
| Model | Capacity | Max height | Weight | Footprint |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40" C-Stand, sliding leg (chrome or black) | 22 lb | 127" | 16 lb | 27.5" |
| 40" C+Stand, spring-loaded turtle base | 22 lb | 118" | 16 lb | 27.5" |
| 40" Hollywood Pro, low profile | 22 lb | 126.5" | 16 lb | 27.5" |
| 40" double riser, spring-loaded folding | 22 lb | 126" | 11 lb | 27.5" |
| 20" C-Stand, sliding leg | 22 lb | 67" | 8.25 lb | 27.5" |
| 20" C+Stand, turtle base | 22 lb | 57.5" | 13 lb | 27.5" |
| 20" C-Stand "Punky" | 15 lb | 63" | 7 lb | 17" |
These are the same numbers printed in the spec table on each product page and carried in the product data behind the site.
What the rating means
The rating is the load the stand is designed to hold safely with the arm extended and the stand sandbagged. It is not the point at which the stand breaks. Three things reduce what a stand will actually hold:
- Arm extension. A 22 lb flag at the tip of a fully extended 40" arm puts far more leverage on the base than the same flag at the column. Keep heavy loads close to the riser.
- Height. Load at 127" tips a stand more easily than load at 60". Sandbag more as you go up.
- Wind. A 4x4 frame of solid material is a sail. Outdoors, add bags and tie off to the ground with an anchor spike.
When to move to a combo stand
A combo stand has a 1-1/8" junior receiver and heavier legs. Matthews combo ratings: Hollywood Combo double riser 90 lb at 136"; Hollywood Combo triple riser 68 lb at 177.5"; Digital Combo 88 lb at 132"; Hollywood Low Boy double riser 72 lb at 76.5"; Mombo Combo 88 lb at 24 ft. If the fixture has a junior pin, or weighs more than 22 lb, or has to go above 11 ft, it belongs on a combo stand.
Sandbag math
The rule most grips use: a bag at least as heavy as the load, on the tallest leg under the load, plus a bag on the opposite leg when the arm is fully out or when outdoors. Matthews sandbags come in 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 35 lb; BoaBags wrap the column when a leg bag will not sit.
Frequently asked questions
How much weight can a 40" C-stand hold?
A Matthews 40" C-stand is rated 22 lb.
Can a C-stand hold a 4x4 frame?
Yes. A 4x4 frame with diffusion is well under 22 lb. Sandbag it and keep it out of wind.
How much does a C-stand weigh?
A Matthews 40" C-stand with grip head and arm weighs 16 lb. A 20" weighs 8.25 lb.
