GoPro Mast for kayaks

myminifactory

Print and assemble a sturdy post to secure your GoPro camera in the back of your kayak while filming yourself paddling. This version requires a 16mm OD/15mm ID tube, which I use as a low-cost curtain tube from the hardware store. The Mast tip and Mast End are inserted on either end of the tube, fitting snugly - I use a block of soft wood and a hammer to drive them in. You may need to file or heat the cylindrical ends of those two pieces to fit into the tube without damaging them. Alternatively, you can drill a small hole in the side of the tube to drive a small 3mm screw and lock those parts securely. Next, insert and attach that tube using a 1/4in screw (1/4-20) - use stainless steel if available. A J bolt plus nut is used to fix the mast to the rear handle of your kayak. Attach your GoPro to the top and paddle off. Back-rolls are not recommended with the mast attached, as hitting something while paddling or when upside down can cause the mast tip to break before the Gopro casing. This will send your Gopro on its merry way - it's a good idea to have a leash or float handy to recover your expensive camera. You'd be surprised at how many GoPros end up at the bottom of popular white water rivers. Hardware I use: - M5-30 SS hex head screw for the Gopro hinge - M5 nut - 1/4"-20 x 1.125" steel screw to attach the mast to the dome - 5/16"-18 J bolt, 5in long - 5/16" nut