Here's an EXTREMELY technical equipment
question------

where can I get THUMBSCREWS? the kind that
attach the camcorder to the footplate (or
whatever)

I only see good ones packaged along with a
whole new tripod ---but I don't want a whole
tripod ----I JUST NEED THUMBSCREWS ---
the kind with a plastic knob on the end---

WHO SELLS JUST THUMBSCREWS!?!

I've always just gone to a hardware store and picked up 1/4" bolts and used those. Other than that, I really don't know.

try MSC. They are a supply house that has just about anything you can think of. www.mscdirect.com