[0.845 lb] I just needed a simple slate and here it is. Affordable, sturdy and gets the job done.

[Chalkboard] If you know what an insert slate is, you can skip the next paragraph. If you're new to filmmaking, please read:

This is a very small slate at 4x5. A previous reviewer exclaims, This thing is a toy! It is not. Insert slates are very helpful tools for marking tight insert shots where the frame is too small to fit a full-size slate. Though the clapper sticks are not always needed, it is handy to have them for the times when they are.

If you're looking for an insert slate, this one covers all the bases. The construction feels solid and durable, and the sticks have a comfortable amount of tension and resistance. The layout on the dry-erase surface follows common US standards and provides for all the important information.


As for the bundle, it is notable that the soft case is a bit larger than the slate, so it is not a snug fit. But padded protection is padded protection, and this pouch is effective for protecting the slate in storage and in transit.

This is a great addition to the gear package.

[0.845 lb] I have owned a few slates, but this is my first from Birns & Sawyer, and I was quite impressed by the quality. The biggest difference is the wood, which is actual hardwood, and attractive wood at that. My other slates were made of MDF, and that's why they have work out or broken. I expect this to stand up to much abuse for a long time. The metal that hinges the two sticks together is in the center, in slots cut into the sticks. There is no wobble, and the tension can be adjusted by tightening or loosening the hinge screw. The color stripes are made of individual stripes of solid color plastic. My color is simply printed on my other slates, and that eventually wears off.


One of the reviews for the stand-alone slate complains that this is a toy because it is so small. This size is called an insert slate, and it is intentionally small so it can be used for close-up insert shots. One would normally also own a full-size slate.


The Elvid soft case holds the slate loosely. It has soft lining, is padded, and the exterior fabric and zipper both seem tough. There is a loop on the outside to hold a dry erase marker.

[0.845 lb] I like the wooden clappers they made a nice sound when I use this clapper board.

[Chalkboard] Works great for school based Projects. My students use the slate with Multi cam shoots. Would buy again and recommend

[Black & White] It erases clean, has a sturdy hinge, proper size. Not much to say, it's just a good, quality clapper. The Best you can get before adding digital SMPTE whatnot.

[0.845 lb] My 7 year old nephew is an amateur filmmaker and he is thrilled with this clapboard.

[Chalkboard] this was exactly what i needed. as a young filmmaker not out of high school i just needed a quick and easy way to identify things in post production. some of these clappers cost upwards of 60 dollars. this is half the price!

[Chalkboard] I got this to inspire me to shoot my first movie. May use DSLRs and separate audio. This will help me organize shots and synchronize audio between the camera and the external audio.