Monopods

Hi Guys

I am thinking about purchasing a Manfrotto 681B plus a head for use with my K10 plus 400mmm lens - about 3kg in total. (I intend to have heavier glass at a later date)

Before I buy can anyone suggest any better options for monopods ?

Cheers


Stu

Hi Stu

Nope - that is the one I use - it is the 5th I have owned and by far the best. My only gripe being I wish it folded down a wee bit smaller. It is heavy for a mono - but that's one of the things I like about it - it is solid.

Carl

Hi Stu

My experience with a 680B is getting frustrating, the main reason being the locks on the legs. They are just not good enough.

Recently when testing the 200mm macro I had the K-5, gripped and ring flash with a 468 head and when leaning ever so slightly to help stabilise it, it couldn't cope and started 'sinking'. To think this is rated at 10kg annoys me as it goes weak at the knees and flexes like mad should you actually put 7-8 kg on it.

One of my news years resolutions is to get rid of it and replace it with something that is up to the job and the only thing that appeals is a Gitzo GM5541. It is based on the same legs and locks as my tripod and that can support my weight so I know it is exactly what I want. Just got to save the £250 for it though!

If you intend to put heavier glass on it, my experience says don't buy it and get the Gitzo!

I have the 682B which turns into an unstable tripod

Very good realy

I have the 681B - bit of a lump but a really sturdy support.

Also have a Manfrotto carbon fibre jobbie - can't remember the model. Less of a lump but equally sturdy.

Never had any problems with 'sinking' or flexing as experienced by Unlocker.

I find a head on a monopod is almost a waste of time, however, and just use a Manfrotto 234RC; simply and safely allows swtiching between portrait and landscape modes.

Part of the art of using a monopod successfully is using the right stance, which I'm sure you'll know. Also find them great to get above crowds using a remote release and crossed fingers

Thanks for the replies guys

Have a look at the Trek Pod go Pro, converts into a simple tripod type thing. I use one and its great with my K7 + Sigma 120-400mm.

I will check that out

Thanks Colin

Sorry to hijack the thread but instead of making a new one, here goes:

Recommended monopods thats cost:

Sub £100?

Sub £50?

Cheers in advance!

I personally prefer twist leg locks to lever locks. This one by Giottos is very good value (I have the 4 section version but it's otherwise the same)
http://www.amazon.com/Giottos-MM5580-5-Section-Pod-Monopod/dp/B0002CTETO

Pros: tall, very sturdy, built in tilt head and QR plate, extra little legs that store in the shaft that can make it self supporting if required.

Cons: heavy for a monopod, not as compact as say a Gitzo traveller, the little legs rattle in the shaft when stored so I wrapped a bit of tape around them to keep the noise down (or just don't carry them if you don't intend to use them, saves weight too).

Feel free to hijack

Phillip

I am just checking out your suggestion

I use a Giottos MML3270B with Manfrotto head 234RC. Its at the cheaper end of the market (about £55 for the combination)But are very sturdy and support my K7 and DA 55 - 300 very well. Though not tried any of the longer lenses, it certainly gets the thumbs up from me.

I feel like you just saved me a LOT of time looking for the right one. I'm fairly tall (6'4") and a review at Amazon highly recommends this. Looks like there's a PRO version in Jessops for the monopod for £34.99 and a non-PRO version at MyMemory for £31.99. What is the difference?

Thank you stub!