Manfrotto

Manfrotto 120-38 Spacer for Tripod Head Tilt

Name: Manfrotto 120-38 Spacer for Tripod Head Tilt
Brand: Manfrotto
SKU: 120-38

★★★★★4.1 (24 reviews)

Add clearance for a full 90-degree head tilt with this lightweight aluminum tripod spacer from Manfrotto.

$30.06*$43.95Save 31%

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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 27, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Manfrotto 120-38 is a machined aluminum spacer that threads between a tripod's top plate and the head, adding vertical clearance so the head can tilt a full 90 degrees without obstruction. On many tripod setups, the camera body or lens barrel contacts the legs or center column before the head reaches its maximum tilt angle. This spacer solves that problem with a simple mechanical lift, using dual 3/8-inch female threads that accept standard tripod hardware on both ends.

Weighing just 0.33 pounds with a 2.36-inch diameter, the 120-38 adds minimal bulk to a rig. It is brand-agnostic—any equipment using 3/8-inch threading can take advantage of it—though it pairs naturally with Manfrotto tripods and heads. Installation requires no tools; you simply unscrew the head, thread the spacer onto the tripod stud, and reattach the head on top. For architectural, macro, or overhead shooting where steep downward angles are essential, this spacer is a small investment that can meaningfully expand your tripod's range of motion.

Specifications

Brand

Manfrotto

Model

120-38

Function

Tripod Spacer for Head Tilt

Attachment 1

3/8-Inch Female

Attachment 2

3/8-Inch Female

Material

Aluminum

Diameter

2.36 in.

Weight

0.33 lbs

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

Aluminum construction keeps added weight to just 0.33 lbs while maintaining rigidity
Enables a full 90-degree head tilt that may otherwise be blocked by the tripod platform
Universal 3/8-inch female threading on both ends fits a wide range of tripods and heads
Simple, no-tools installation—just thread it between the tripod and head

👎 Cons

Single-purpose accessory that only addresses head-tilt clearance
Raises the head slightly, which can marginally reduce stability with heavy payloads
Does not include a 3/8-inch stud or adapter, so your tripod must already have one
2.36-inch diameter may look oversized on smaller or lighter tripods

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Manfrotto 120-38 spacer?

It raises the tripod head above the top plate, providing enough clearance for the head to tilt a full 90 degrees without the camera or lens hitting the tripod legs or center column.

What thread size does this spacer use?

Both ends feature 3/8-inch female threads, so it fits between a standard 3/8-inch tripod stud and a head with a 3/8-inch mounting hole.

Will this spacer fit non-Manfrotto tripods?

Yes. Any tripod or head that uses the standard 3/8-inch thread can work with this spacer, regardless of brand.

Does adding this spacer reduce the stability of the tripod setup?

It raises the head slightly, which can introduce minor flex under heavy loads. For most camera and lens combinations, the effect is negligible, but users with very heavy setups should be aware of the added height.