DIY tripod mount for Meteor and other 2" diameter flashlights (with photos)

The Noctigon Meteor M43 makes an excellent work light, but there is no convenient way to mount it for hands-free operation.

This method should work for any flashlight with a body of about 2” diameter, and will allow the light to be fastened quickly to a tripod.

You’ll need:

  • 50mm quick release truss clamp
  • 1/4”–20 flange nut
  • ~3/4” bicycle inner tube
  • drill and drill bits
  • sandpaper, file, belt sander, or bench grinder
  • 5-minute epoxy (optional)

These photos should be self-explanatory, but I’ve also included a (very) wordy description below.











The ‘50mm quick release truss clamp’ is commonly used in stage and concert lighting. Search everyone’s favorite online auction site for “mini QR truss clamp” or visit your local theater supply store. If you’d like to make two mounts, look for a “dual swivel” model to save a couple dollars.

The ‘flange nut’ is available at most hardware stores. Ask for a “quarter twenty flange nut.” Look for one with a flange that is wider than the inside base of the truss clamp, about 3/4” wide or the size of a US nickel.

Used inner tubes are usually free at your local bike shop. They usually have a supply of punctured tubes and are happy to share. A tube about the diameter of your little finger is a snug fit on the clamp and will help protect the flashlight body.

Drill the mounting hole in the bottom of the clamp to fit the hex-head of the flange nut. You may also sand or file the points of the hex to round the nut for a better fit inside the new hole.

File or sand two flats on the nut’s flange to make a tight fit between the sides of the truss clamp. Check the size as you work so you don’t remove too much of the flange. You want a tight fit to keep the nut from spinning while attaching the tripod.

NOTE: The tight fit of the flange against the inside of the clamp simply keeps the nut in place when the tripod isn’t attached. If your flange nut is loose, use some epoxy or other adhesive to keep it in place. This does NOT compromise the strength of the connection with the tripod. The clamp is squeezed tight between the tripod and the flange when attached.

IMPORTANT: Some truss clamps use a washer under the spring. The washer’s diameter may be large enough to contact the flashlight’s body when the clamp is closed, potentially scratching the flashlight. Sand or file the outside of the washer, replace it with a smaller one, or simply remove it.

The clamp mechanism is similar to a bicycle’s quick-release axle or seat post adjustment. The clamp’s squeezing pressure can be adjusted by turning the release handle before closing. Aim for a tight fit around the flashlight’s body. You should not be able to twist the flashlight when the clamp is closed.

This method could be modified to mount a light to bicycle or ATV handlebars. The clamp can also be screwed to a fence post or wall stud, or bolted to a surface when a tripod is not convenient.

Always use a safety tether when using this method on a moving vehicle or around clumsy folks. :wink:

BTW, the tripod pictured is an UltraPod II by Pedco. I highly recommend it for flashlights and cameras!

Well done! Just ordered the truss clamp from the large auction site. Now to find an inner tube that didn’t get thrown away….,.

I will end up putting an Arca-type quick-release on the clamp, which will actually simplify assembly.

Too bad they didn’t just include a tripod socket on the light in the first place.

Thanks for the tip!

Nice project!
Very cool result
Thanks

You’re right, permanently attaching a QR tripod plate will simplify your build. I hope you report back with a photo of your setup! :slight_smile:

Thanks Miller! BTW, I’m very happy that the Q8 under development is planned to include a tripod mount! :+1:

Thanks for this!

You’re welcome!

Please post pics of your setup! :+1:

Thanks for the guide! Ordered the clamp, I hope to find the flange nut in a local hardware store.