Suggestions for monopods under $100?

[robscomputer]

Hi,

I was wondering does any one have suggestions for a monopod setup for under $100. I would like something to support at least 13lbs, and have a quick release head. In the next few months I’ll be going to Laguna Seca and Sears, both places where I would need extra help with panning. I’m not too concerned with weight but will be carrying this monopod on my backpack. Do they offer smaller sizes for external carry?



Thanks,

Rob

[ian408]

Try looking in the accessories reviews, http://www.dgrin.com/showthread.php?t=6884
You'll find a link the the Bogen pages.

This Bogen monopod is a great bargin at $60--here (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=254606&is=REG).

I presonally do not use a head on my monopod. Threading it to the lens directly
(the Bogen's support either size).

Ian

[DoctorIt]

Just stay away from carbon fiber, and this should be easy. Bogen has several aluminum options, and a basic tilt head w/quick release is only $20 or so bucks on top of that.

I bought a used Bogen + basic head for $60 on FM.

[Mongrel]

My wife bought me one for Christmas a year or two ago. It's made from SLIK's titanium\aluminum alloy. Real nice pod for the $$$ (around $80 I believe). Great finish and locks. Fairly compact as well.

here's a link:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=150609&is=REG

I use it for supporting my Canon 1D with the Sigma 120-300 f/2.8 attached. No problems whatsoever with the weight of that combo.

Like Ian, I don't use a head with mine.

[robscomputer]

Great suggestions!

I have a Manfrotto tripod and liked the quality so I took a look at the monopods they offer. Since I'm going to be using this monopod at crowded events I wanted something shorter so I wouldn't accidently hit anyone when turing around. :wink

So far I think this would match my needs.

Manfrotto compact monopod 680B (aka 3249B) $50 from BH. It's a four section monopod instead of the more common 3 section but is about 6 inches shorter.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=5535&is=REG

For the head I would choose the standard tilt head with quick release.

3229 $28 from BH.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=5491&is=REG

I'll be using the monopod in the dirt and side of a short hill so I'm guessing this optional stainless spike would help with the gripping.

676SP2 $16 from BH.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=269963&is=REG

The other monopods suggested by the group were really nice but didn't offer any quick release options. After having this option on my tripod I'm really spoiled and would perfer it on a monopod.

I did have a question about overall weight limits on a monopod. The monopod I listed has a weight limit of 22lbs, but the head is only 5lbs. My camera and lens would be over the 5lbs limit, now is this reffering to the head holding up 5lbs at an angle? I assume it's not an issue since a monopod is always held in place by the user.

Thanks,
Rob

[DoctorIt]

That's pretty much exactly what I have - 4 section Bogen w/3229 head. I love it. The quick-release head is a priceless item, don't let those other guys tell you different! :D


You may want to save $16 on the spike. That's rather expensive, dontcha think? I have used my rubber foot all over the place including snow and ice, and haven't really said "damn i wish I had a spike" at any point.

[robscomputer]

That's pretty much exactly what I have - 4 section Bogen w/3229 head. I love it. The quick-release head is a priceless item, don't let those other guys tell you different! :D


You may want to save $16 on the spike. That's rather expensive, dontcha think? I have used my rubber foot all over the place including snow and ice, and haven't really said "damn i wish I had a spike" at any point.
Good call,

I haven't had any problems with my tripod and the rubber feet and assume they will hold well enough. It was more a thought about easier panning.

Rob

[ian408]

The two axis head is more than enough. If you need quick release, that's the one.

Save the money on a spike though and just use your foot if you need to.

Ian

[jthomas]

I'm shopping for a monopod too, but would like one that could double as a hiking staff. Would any of those recommended above also serve in that capacity?

[ian408]

I'm shopping for a monopod too, but would like one that could double as a hiking staff. Would any of those recommended above also serve in that capacity?
I suppose one could. It's got a similar extending mechanism though it's probably
heavier.

Why not head down to the camera store and try it out?

Ian

[jthomas]

Why not head down to the camera store and try it out?

Ian Because it's at least 40 miles to a decent camera store, which would still have a very limited selection.

But our area has compensating attractions.:):

http://fish-n-float.smugmug.com/photos/24782613-M.jpg

[robscomputer]

I'm shopping for a monopod too, but would like one that could double as a hiking staff. Would any of those recommended above also serve in that capacity?
You might be interested in this walking staff from REI.

http://www.rei.com/product/980.htm?vcat=REI_SSHP_CAMPINGundefined

Tracks Sherlock Walking Staff $49.00
Item # 471038

It has a removable top that has a camera tripod thread. Best of both worlds!

Rob

[jthomas]

You might be interested in this walking staff from REI.

http://www.rei.com/product/980.htm?vcat=REI_SSHP_CAMPINGundefined

Tracks Sherlock Walking Staff $49.00
Item # 471038

It has a removable top that has a camera tripod thread. Best of both worlds!

Rob Looks interesting! Thanks for pointing it out. :thumb

[jthomas]

You might be interested in this walking staff from REI.

http://www.rei.com/product/980.htm?vcat=REI_SSHP_CAMPINGundefined

Tracks Sherlock Walking Staff $49.00
Item # 471038

It has a removable top that has a camera tripod thread. Best of both worlds!

Rob There is a review of this staff/monopod here. (http://www.backpackgeartest.org/reviews/Trekking%20Poles/Staves/Tracks%20Sherlock%20Travel%20Staff/Owners%20Review%20by%20Louis%20Luangkesorn/)

[photobug]

Rob,

I have a like-new Ambico monopod, still in the box, if you'd like to try one out for a while inexpensively (possibly upgrading to pricier one later as your tastes become more refined ;-)). It includes a quick-release mount**. I've been meaning to post it in the Flea Market forum, but haven't gotten around to it until now.

The monopod features:



quick-release head mount
extension to 61" (measured)
aluminum, 5-segment (4-leg-lock) construction
weighs only 1 pound
I was just going to ask $20 plus whatever shipping runs (probably ~$5 for Parcel Post).

= Dave (photobug)

[photobug]

(Added photo & more description to above posting, in response to a request through a PM)