Monopod and head for 4Kg +

[Xup]

Any recommendations guys, like to keep is sub £100 if possible but will go more if needed, like to keep it light if possible.

Cheers for the Info

Martin

 

[percymon]

I have the basic Manfrotto 'pod and it very robust - wouldn't have a problem taking your kit. I only have a simple ballhead on mine, not sure what make but the whole lot came under £60. The ballhead whilst OK is probably not the best around, and if i were using it regularly i'd want something better. The redsnapper ballhead is apparently very good at £50 ish.

 

[CT]

That's just under 9lbs.

I'd recommend the Manfrotto 685B. It's fairly unique in having a quick release pistol grip which you just squeeeze to raise and lower the height, even with heavy gear mounted on it- no messing about with clips or twist locks, so very fast to use. I've had the 500mm f4 and a 1 series body on mine with no probs at all. I think it retails at around a 100 quid or so.

I'd recommend the monopod tilt head for it which is only around 14 quid.

 

[Xup]

The Manfrotto looks good, is there anyway/available, to fit a ball head with a shoulder brace (to use pointing like a gun).

More info on its use, and gear.

Shooting high speed low level jet aircraft,
Lens Sigma 120-300mm 2.8
Everything has to be carried up big mountains

Would like to be able to use as a normal monopod +, use the monopod and head fixed/tied to posts, acting as a swiveling gun mount with the Shoulder brace fitted.

Hope that makes sense to you.

 

[CT]

It sounds to me like you'd be best served by a gimbal head, which gives you complete free movement on both axis and the speed you need for fast close jets. The Manfrotto 393 is the cheapest on the market at around 100 quid, but it's a great bit of gear. I've used my 393 on the monopod.

It's going to be a little heavier to cart up those hills and I do know what you mean, but I reckon you'll have more chance of getting those killer shots once you're up there.

 

[Xup]

Cheers CT for your help, I can now read up on these items

Weight is my only concern, every Oz hurts more !!!!!

Manfrotto 393 modded to fit on a hiking stick when needed would save weight, + save the cost of the monopod, anyone know if this has been done before by anyone on TP .

Martin

 

[Xup]

I have the basic Manfrotto 'pod and it very robust - wouldn't have a problem taking your kit. I only have a simple ballhead on mine, not sure what make but the whole lot came under £60. The ballhead whilst OK is probably not the best around, and if i were using it regularly i'd want something better. The redsnapper ballhead is apparently very good at £50 ish.

Cheers, I'll look into that option too