Thinking of getting a Monopod
- Thread starter wornish
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Horoscope Fish
Senior Member
Monopods are one of the best things to come along since sliced bread in my opinion: I have a couple (very inexpensive) monopods that I wouldn't want to be without. My Manfrotto 'pod is NOT carbon fiber like the example you list, however, so I can't address if that's worth the price of admission or not. As for monopods in general, though, two (very enthusiastic) "thumbs up" from me.
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They work but not for me,bought a manfrotto and ball head gave it a couple of weeks and still found it annoying,thats why i opted for a lighter tripod than my benbo and the gimbal,if you can make one work for you then they look to be great.
Think there are a couple of you tube vids on how to use them
Think there are a couple of you tube vids on how to use them
I have a Manfrotto 680B with a 234RC head (tilt top quick release) that I use for shooting sports. It works very well to stabilize the camera for that purpose. Personally, I do not like using a ball head on a monopod, the tilt top gives me the flexibility I need without a lot of extra bulk and complexity. I have thought about purchasing a carbon fiber one but I would go with the 694CX, even though it is about twice the cost, due to the heavier construction and the additional height. With the D800 I would definitely consider the 694CX (or the 695CX).
I have an older manfrotto monopod and always keep it in my vehicle. Folds up small and lighter than a tripod when I go for a walk plus it doubles as a comfortable to hold walking stick 
A tripod is sturdier but also heavier to carry and takes longer to set up when you're walking and come upon wildlife.
A tripod is sturdier but also heavier to carry and takes longer to set up when you're walking and come upon wildlife.I have a Manfrotto 079 monopod with a Slik SBH-100 ball head. I also have a Benro MP-68 M8 monopod with a head of unknown origin. It's old, but still works like a charm.....smaller and lighter than the Manfrotto. I could not see myself without either of them. They both have their place in my arsenal of gear.
It's old, but still works like a charm.....smaller and lighter than the Manfrotto. I could not see myself without either of them. They both have their place in my arsenal of gear.donaldjledet
Senior Member
, Weather wise big difference from San Diego
@Dave_W See you made it to Montana,Big difference weather wise.
I have the same thing. I only use it when I shoot football and baseball games. Tripods are not allowed around the field but the umpires allow monopods.
Sirui monopod 2 by gqtuazon, on Flickr
BackdoorArts
Senior Member
Steve saved me a lot of typing. ^^^ What he said!!! ^^^
But just so I contribute something, I also have a MeFOTO Roadtrip, which is a great compact tripod that also converts to a monopod. $189 for the aluminum model, complete with ball head. I use mine all the time - it's relegated my Manfrotto tripod to studio work or the backseat of the car. I don't use it as a monopod that often, but it's nice to have that function. I prefer the Manfrotto as a pure monopod, and it makes for a sturdier walking stick.
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Browncoat
Senior Member
I've rarely used my monopod...mostly for sports photography, since tripods usually aren't allowed on the sidelines. It's probably the least-used piece of gear in my arsenal.
That said, my monopod is the one remaining thing that I've never upgraded to "pro" level. I got mine @ Walmart for about $20-30, and see no need to sink money into an upgrade.
That said, my monopod is the one remaining thing that I've never upgraded to "pro" level. I got mine @ Walmart for about $20-30, and see no need to sink money into an upgrade.