Advice for monopod & monopod head.

[MeadsMan]

Best to try before you buy when you can,I always think that the sturdier the better,regardless of weight.

[glsammy]

Originally Posted by Wizmatt

I have had another look at he monopods and am now considering carbon fiber ones. However, for about 100g is it worth paying all the extra money. Has anyone got a carbon monopod that could offer some advice?

Many thanks, Matt.

I have a Manfrotto 694 Magfibre Monopod, which I use all the time. One problem has developed with it. The lower leg will not grip correctly no matter how much I try to adjust the levers. It means I lose about 10" of reach, although to be honest I can't remember when thats caused me any real problems. If I was buying another Monopod I wouldn't bother with the fibre type. I think the weight saving is insignificant.
I use the 234RC quick release head, which I can highly recommend. It'll easily support your camera and lens. It's simple and effective. You can lock the lens onto the head. I often rely on that totally and it's never let me down. Just buy enough of the 200PL-14 quick release plates for all your lenses.

[John D]

Originally Posted by glsammy

I think the weight saving is insignificant.
I use the 234RC quick release head, which I can highly recommend. It'll easily support your camera and lens. It's simple and effective. You can lock the lens onto the head. I often rely on that totally and it's never let me down. Just buy enough of the 200PL-14 quick release plates for all your lenses.

I have the same as Graham has described above but have the Manfrotto 679B monopod instead. This I use for all wildlife photography and the occasional landscape.
I find the monopod therefore caters for +90% of my requirements and is much more portable and flexible in its use compared to a tripod.

John D

Zenfolio | John's Wild World

[Wizmatt]

Thanks everyone, that's just the advice I needed.