What device is used to stabilize tripod legs and prevents them from moving apart under heavy camera load?

The device used to stabilize tripod legs and prevent them from moving apart under heavy camera load is the spreader. A spreader typically connects the tripod legs and helps maintain their position relative to one another, ensuring stability and balance. This is particularly important when using heavier equipment, as it reduces the risk of the tripod tipping over or becoming unstable.

Spreaders can come in various designs, including a fixed type where the legs are held in a specific position, or an adjustable type that allows for varied leg spacing depending on the ground conditions or equipment being used. By creating a rigid triangle between the legs, spreaders distribute weight evenly and provide an added measure of security.

In contrast, other devices like foot stabilizers or base clamps serve different functions, such as enhancing grip on uneven terrain or securing the tripod to a surface, but do not specifically address the stability of the legs under load. Support rigs, while useful for stabilizing the camera itself, do not interact directly with the tripod legs in the same manner that a spreader does. Therefore, the spreader's role is essential for tripod stability during heavy-duty camera work.