Best Action Camera Shotgun Mount for Steady Shots in 2024

The best action camera shotgun mount in 2024 delivers rock-steady, professional-grade footage by minimizing vibrations and enhancing balance during dynamic shooting. Engineered for filmmakers and content creators, top models combine lightweight durability with quick-angle adjustments and universal compatibility—perfect for capturing smooth POV shots on the move. Whether you’re filming high-speed chases or immersive vlogs, this essential rig upgrade ensures every frame stays sharp and stable.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a shock-absorbing mount to eliminate hand tremors and stabilize footage.
• Prioritize lightweight materials like carbon fiber for fatigue-free handling.
• Opt for quick-release systems to swap cameras effortlessly during shoots.
• Ensure universal compatibility with major action camera brands for versatility.
• Use rubberized grips to enhance hold and reduce slippage in wet conditions.
• Look for adjustable angles to frame shots precisely without readjusting the rig.

Why You Need a Shotgun Mount for Your Action Camera

Let’s be real—filming yourself while hiking a mountain trail, surfing a killer wave, or riding a dirt bike at full speed is *way* harder than it looks. You’ve got your action camera, you’re ready to capture that epic moment, but the footage comes out shaky, blurry, or worse—completely unusable. Sound familiar? I’ve been there. That’s when I discovered the unsung hero of action videography: the action camera shotgun mount.

Imagine being able to record smooth, cinematic shots while your hands are busy doing something else—like holding a fishing rod, gripping handlebars, or even just walking with your hands in your pockets. That’s the magic of a shotgun mount. It’s a simple yet powerful tool that attaches your action camera (like a GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, or Insta360) to a long pole or handle, letting you extend the camera out in front of you. The result? Steadier shots, better angles, and a whole lot more creative freedom. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer, a content creator, or just someone who wants to capture life’s wildest moments, this little gadget can seriously level up your game.

What Is an Action Camera Shotgun Mount and How Does It Work?

Understanding the Basics

At its core, an action camera shotgun mount is a pole or handle with a camera mount at one end and a grip at the other. Think of it like a selfie stick—but built for action, not just selfies. The “shotgun” name comes from its long, narrow shape, similar to a shotgun barrel. You hold the mount with both hands, extending the camera out in front of you. This creates a natural counterbalance that reduces shake and wobble, giving you smoother footage than holding the camera with one hand or mounting it on a helmet.

Unlike rigid mounts (like chest harnesses or helmet straps), a shotgun mount gives you *dynamic* control. You can pan, tilt, and move the camera smoothly in real time, almost like a mini Steadicam. It’s especially useful for low-angle shots, tracking shots, or filming while moving—like walking, running, or riding.

How It Reduces Shake and Improves Stability

You might wonder: *How can holding a stick make my footage smoother?* Great question. The secret lies in **leverage and damping**. When you hold the mount with both hands, your arms act as natural shock absorbers. The longer the pole, the more your body’s micro-movements are dampened before they reach the camera. It’s similar to how a longer fishing rod reduces the feel of small bites.

For example, I once tried filming myself mountain biking with just my GoPro in my hand. The result? A shaky, nauseating mess. But when I switched to a 36-inch shotgun mount, the difference was night and day. My body absorbed the bumps and vibrations, and the camera stayed relatively stable. It’s not perfect, but it’s a massive improvement over handheld or helmet-mounted shots in high-motion scenarios.

Types of Shotgun Mounts: Rigid vs. Flexible

Not all shotgun mounts are created equal. Here are the two main types:

• Rigid mounts: These are solid poles made of aluminum, carbon fiber, or high-strength plastic. They’re lightweight, durable, and offer the best stability. Great for outdoor adventures, sports, and situations where you need precise control. The downside? They can be bulky to carry.
• Flexible mounts: These use bendable materials (like silicone or spring steel) that absorb vibrations. They’re more compact and easier to pack, but they can introduce a slight “jello” effect in fast-moving shots. Best for walking, hiking, or light action.

I personally prefer rigid mounts for high-speed activities (like biking or skiing), but I keep a flexible one in my backpack for casual filming. It’s all about matching the tool to the situation.

Top Features to Look for in a High-Quality Shotgun Mount

Build Quality and Materials

Not all mounts are built to survive the wild. Look for ones made from **aluminum or carbon fiber**—they’re lightweight but strong. Avoid cheap plastic mounts, especially if you’re doing anything more intense than a walk in the park. I learned this the hard way when a flimsy plastic mount cracked after a single bike ride. Ouch.

Carbon fiber is the gold standard. It’s lighter than aluminum, more rigid, and dampens vibrations better. But it’s also pricier. If you’re on a budget, a well-made aluminum mount (like those from Smatree or GoPro’s own accessories) can still do the job.

Adjustable Length and Modularity

A fixed-length mount is fine for some uses, but I *highly* recommend getting one with **adjustable length**. Why? Because different situations call for different reach. Need a low-angle shot of your dog running? Shorten the pole. Want to film yourself surfing? Extend it to avoid water splashes.

Modular designs are even better. Some mounts let you swap out sections, add extension poles, or attach accessories (like a secondary handle or phone mount). This flexibility means you can customize your setup for any scenario. For example, I use a modular mount that converts from a 24-inch to 48-inch pole. It’s perfect for both hiking and mountain biking.

Camera Compatibility and Mounting Options

This one’s critical. Make sure your shotgun mount is compatible with your camera. Most use the standard **GoPro-style mounting system** (the 3-pronged “fingers”), which works with GoPro, DJI Osmo Action, Insta360, and many third-party brands. But some mounts use proprietary systems, so double-check before buying.

Also, look for mounts with **quick-release mechanisms**. These let you attach and remove your camera in seconds—no fiddling with screws or levers. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve missed a shot because I was struggling to get my camera on the mount.

Grip Comfort and Ergonomics

You’ll be holding this thing for a *long* time. A comfortable grip makes a huge difference. Look for:

• Soft, textured rubber grips (they prevent slipping, even when your hands are sweaty)
• Ergonomic shape (curved or contoured handles reduce hand fatigue)
• Dual-grip options (some mounts have a second handle for better control)

I once used a mount with a smooth metal handle. After 20 minutes of filming, my hands were sore and slippery. Lesson learned: comfort matters.

Best Action Camera Shotgun Mounts in 2024: Our Top Picks

1. GoPro Shorty (Best for Portability)

If you want a compact, no-fuss solution, the GoPro Shorty is a solid choice. It’s just 8.9 inches long when collapsed but extends to 14.5 inches. Made from aluminum, it’s lightweight (only 3.2 oz) and packs down small enough to fit in your pocket.

Pros:

• Extremely portable
• Built-in tripod (flip-out legs for tabletop use)
• GoPro-compatible quick-release

Cons:

• Short reach (not ideal for high-speed action)
• Plastic tripod legs feel a bit flimsy

Perfect for casual vlogging, walking shots, or when you want to travel light. I keep mine in my camera bag for quick setups.

2. Smatree Carbon Fiber Extension Pole (Best Overall)

This is my go-to mount for serious adventures. Made from 100% carbon fiber, it’s lightweight (7.2 oz), rigid, and extends from 14 to 36 inches. The dual rubber grips are comfortable, and the quick-release system is rock-solid.

Pros:

• Excellent vibration damping
• Adjustable length with locking collars
• Comes with a wrist strap

Cons:

• No tripod legs
• Carbon fiber can scratch easily

I’ve used this on hikes, bike rides, and even a kayaking trip. The footage? Smooth, stable, and cinematic. Worth every penny.

3. Peak Design Travel Tripod (Best Premium Option)

Okay, this one’s a bit of a hybrid. It’s a full-sized travel tripod, but the center column can be used as a **shotgun mount** by removing the legs. Made from aerospace-grade aluminum, it’s incredibly sturdy and extends to 58 inches.

Pros:

• Multi-functional (tripod + shotgun mount)
• Ultra-durable construction
• Integrated phone mount

Cons:

• Expensive
• Heavier than dedicated mounts (1.2 lbs)

If you’re a content creator who needs versatility, this is a fantastic investment. I use it when I want both stable tripod shots and dynamic handheld filming.

4. Insta360 Invisible Selfie Stick (Best for 360 Cameras)

360 cameras like the Insta360 X3 or GoPro Max have a unique challenge: the stick can show up in your footage. Insta360 solves this with their **invisible selfie stick**, which is designed to disappear in 360 videos.

Pros:

• Truly invisible in 360 footage
• Lightweight and collapsible
• Works with Insta360 and GoPro

Cons:

• Limited to 360 cameras
• Shorter reach (24 inches max)

It’s a game-changer for 360 filming. I’ve used it to create “floating camera” effects that look like magic.

How to Use a Shotgun Mount for Maximum Stability and Creativity

Proper Holding Technique

How you hold the mount matters *way* more than you think. Here’s the right way:

• Use both hands: One near the top (for fine control), one near the base (for stability).
• Keep your elbows bent: This lets your arms absorb shocks.
• Stand with feet shoulder-width apart: A stable stance = stable footage.
• Move smoothly: Avoid jerky motions. Pretend you’re carrying a tray of drinks.

I practice this technique in front of a mirror until it feels natural. It makes a huge difference.

Creative Shooting Angles

A shotgun mount opens up angles you can’t get with other mounts. Try these:

• Low-angle shots: Point the camera upward to make yourself look heroic (great for hiking or climbing).
• Tracking shots: Walk beside your subject while holding the mount out.
• Overhead shots: Extend the pole above your head to film downward (perfect for filming gear or maps).
• “Selfie” shots: Point the camera back at yourself for vlogs or reactions.

I once used a low-angle shot to film myself jumping over a log. The perspective made it look like an epic action scene. My friends were impressed—until they saw the outtakes.

Tips for Filming in Challenging Conditions

Action doesn’t always happen in perfect weather. Here’s how to adapt:

• Wet conditions: Use a waterproof mount (or cover it with a plastic bag). Wipe the lens frequently.
• High winds: Extend the pole less to reduce wind resistance. Use a heavier mount for stability.
• Low light: Avoid fast pans (they’ll look blurry). Stick to slow, deliberate movements.

I learned about wind the hard way when I tried filming in a storm. The mount acted like a sail, and my camera nearly flew out of my hands. Now I keep a shorter pole in my bag for windy days.

Comparing Shotgun Mounts: Performance, Price, and Value

Here’s a quick comparison of the mounts I’ve tested. All prices are approximate (as of 2024).

Mount	Material	Length (in)	Weight (oz)	Price	Best For
GoPro Shorty	Aluminum	8.9–14.5	3.2	$25	Portability, casual use
Smatree Carbon Fiber	Carbon fiber	14–36	7.2	$60	High-speed action, versatility
Peak Design Tripod	Aluminum	Up to 58	19.2	$200	Multi-functional, premium users
Insta360 Invisible Stick	Carbon fiber	Up to 24	4.8	$40	360 cameras, creative angles

As you can see, there’s a mount for every budget and need. The Smatree is my top pick for most users—it balances price, performance, and portability perfectly.

Final Thoughts: Is a Shotgun Mount Worth It?

Let’s cut to the chase: **Yes, an action camera shotgun mount is absolutely worth it**. It’s not just a gadget—it’s a tool that unlocks new creative possibilities and dramatically improves your footage quality. Whether you’re filming a weekend hike, a mountain bike ride, or just capturing family memories, a good shotgun mount gives you steadier shots, better angles, and more control.

But here’s the thing: it’s not magic. You’ll still need to practice proper technique, choose the right mount for your needs, and maybe even combine it with other stabilization tools (like a gimbal or post-processing software). And like any tool, it has limits. It won’t turn your shaky footage into Hollywood-quality cinema, but it *will* make it watchable, shareable, and way more fun to create.

So, what’s next? If you’re new to shotgun mounts, start with something simple and affordable—like the GoPro Shorty or a budget-friendly carbon fiber pole. Once you’ve got the basics down, invest in a higher-end model if you need more reach or durability. And most importantly: get out there and start filming. Life’s too wild to capture it with shaky hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best action camera shotgun mount for steady shots in 2024?

The top-rated action camera shotgun mount in 2024 combines lightweight aluminum construction, rubberized grips, and adjustable clamps to ensure stability. Look for models compatible with GoPro, DJI, and Insta360 for maximum versatility.

How does an action camera shotgun mount improve video quality?

A shotgun mount reduces hand tremors and stabilizes footage by securely clamping your action camera to a microphone or boom pole. This setup allows smoother tracking shots and better low-light performance due to reduced shake.

Can I use an action camera shotgun mount with any microphone?

Most mounts fit standard 1/4″-20 or 3/8″ threaded microphones, but always verify compatibility before purchasing. Universal designs with adjustable jaws offer the best adaptability across different gear.

Is a shotgun mount better than a handheld grip for action cameras?

A shotgun mount excels when mounted on rigs or booms for dynamic shots, while handheld grips are ideal for quick point-and-shoot scenarios. For professional-grade steady shots, the mount’s rigidity outperforms handheld stability.

What features should I look for in an action camera shotgun mount?

Prioritize anti-slip padding, quick-release mechanisms, and multi-angle adjustability. Ensure it includes a cold shoe adapter for attaching accessories like lights or mics alongside your action camera.

Are shotgun mounts durable enough for outdoor adventures?

High-quality mounts use weather-resistant materials like anodized aluminum and silicone grips, making them rugged enough for hiking, surfing, or skiing. Always check the weight limit to avoid overloading during intense activities.