RE: Quality CAMCORDER
Chuck, here is a Gizzmo that I made about 3 years ago to help with the shakes. The EIS on the Panasonic camera that I have is pretty poor but this balancing device makes a world of difference while taping planes in flight. You need to adjust the length and weights so that the camcorder is neutrally balanced while you are looking through the eye piece. The added mass vastly smooths things out and it is very comfortable to "wear".
The Gizzmo is made from 1" schedule 40 PVC pipe. There is a lolly pop shaped piece of wood in the front end to hold the quick disconnect. I used foam insulation tubing on the sides for shoulder cushions. Not only does this thing work good but you'll get lots of looks at a flyin. It is good up to about 75 degrees but gets pretty hard on the neck much more than that.
Ken