For those of you who like gadgets, this one will help make the frequent task of twisting mounting screws a little bit easier. It's called the Rabbit Key and it has two purposes: to screw mounting plates, and to look pretty cool. This thing, which was developed by filmmaker Kei Kosonoy, is small, fits on a keychain, is made of stainless steel, and costs just $8.
I know what you're thinking. You're thinking, "I already use a coin/washer to loosen and tighten my mounting screws." Right, and those definitely work, but we were able to talk briefly with Kosonoy to get an explanation as to why he developed the Rabbit Key. He told us, "In the beginning, it didn't cross my mind that I wasn't the only one with that problem. Some people prefer a coin or washer, but not me. It was nonsense for me to use a coin or washer to mount a rig worth thousands of dollars. Originally I designed it for my personal use, but after my friends kept asking me for one, I realized it could help a lot of people."
So, is the Rabbit Key meeting a need for filmmakers? Maybe. Is it solving any type of real issue in the cinematic world? Not entirely. But it is a special little tool that has a solitary cinematic purpose, which is kind of cute in a functional sort of way. It may be more of a novelty item, but it does have functionality, especially when it comes to convenience—attach it to a keychain and attach the keychain somewhere on your camera/tripod/whatever bag and it's there whenever you need it. You don't have to dig around to find a coin or a washer, or hurt your fingers twisting and turning screws when you do find one.
You can preorder one right now at B&H for $8.
Rabbit Key Universal Camera Key—B&H
Source: Rabbit Key
