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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Clovishound" data-source="post: 786997" data-attributes="member: 50197">After playing around with the HEAVY 200-500, I'm thinking I need a monopod. I dug out an old shooting stick that had a broken rest on top. Fortunately, that rest attaches with a 1/4 20 stud. I tried it out in the yard, and found I liked it, but it is definitely too flimsy for 6.5 pounds of lens and camera for anything but a couple of tryout outings. Looks like there is nothing available locally except a light duty Sunpak. I looked online and looks like this Manfrotto appears to be a good bang for the buck. I plan to use it mainly for the long tele that has a collar, so I don't think I'll need a head. Runs about $50. Weighs just over a pound, is capable of supporting 35 lbs, folds to 17" and out to 62. Biggest down side is 5 section vs 4. Not sure if the flip locks are better than the clamp locks. I think the twist locks are more durable, but more of a pain to manage in the field.  I don't mind spending a little more for a good one, but don't want to pay a couple hundred for a monopod, unless I absolutely have to. Spent too much on camera equipment this year, when I have too many other financial unknowns on the horizon. [ATTACH]377426[/ATTACH]The next model up is the Xpro which is a 4 section, just a little heavier, a little longer folded, and has flip locks. It also runs about $120. Not a deal breaker, but not sure it's worth over the double the price. [ATTACH]377427[/ATTACH]Manfrotto seems to have the best selection for a sturdy monopod at a reasonable price. I can always add a head later on, if I decided I need one. For intended use, I think the only advantage would be a quick mount plate. Even that is a dubious advantage, since a monopod is very easy to screw on and off a tripod collar.</blockquote>

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