Monopod Recommendations Please

Kinobe

Kinobe

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Hi all,

The majority of my work is handheld. However with the recent purchase of a 300mm 2.8, I'm going to need stability and I can't seem to handhold this mini-beast for that long.

Could I ask for recommendation on monopods please, in particular to support the weight of:
Nikon D4
300mm 2.8

I don't want to be spending the earth, this will be mainly used for wildlife/bird photography trips. However I'm always willing to invest in good equipment.

Thanks

Kinobe
 
Either a Manfrotto or a Gitzo monopod would be excellent for your use. I use these monopod's for birding/wildlife and soon to shoot BSB motorsposts at Knockhill with my D810 with Sigma 150-600mm sport lens.
 
Last edited:
niko said:
hi mate your links keep diverting to their homepage for some reason
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Yes, but to the right product pages!
 
I have several monopods... from quick setting like the Manfrotto Neotec to lightweight Gitzo carbon fiber. But the one I use the most is a Sirui P-306 six section aluminum... and it's the cheapest one I've ever owned. If you want to up the price a bit, the P-326 in carbon fiber has a little higher load capacity, it's a little lighter, and it will be "warmer" in winter... but it's also a lot less durable.
The main reason I prefer the Sirui is how compact it can be, which means I can have it along even if not using it.

IMO, a head is not a requirement for most monopod use. But it can come in handy sometimes (particularly when sitting on the ground). The head I use on monopods is a Sirui L-10... it costs more than either monopod. I *hate* ballheads on monopods, and I see no benefit to using a gimbal type either.
If I am not using a head, then I use a QR clamp (arca swiss type) instead. It's not necessary either, I just prefer it.
 
sk66 said:
I have several monopods... from quick setting like the Manfrotto Neotec to lightweight Gitzo carbon fiber. But the one I use the most is a Sirui P-306 six section aluminum... and it's the cheapest one I've ever owned. If you want to up the price a bit, the P-326 in carbon fiber has a little higher load capacity, it's a little lighter, and it will be "warmer" in winter... but it's also a lot less durable.
The main reason I prefer the Sirui is how compact it can be, which means I can have it along even if not using it.

IMO, a head is not a requirement for most monopod use. But it can come in handy sometimes (particularly when sitting on the ground). The head I use on monopods is a Sirui L-10... it costs more than either monopod. I *hate* ballheads on monopods, and I see no benefit to using a gimbal type either.
If I am not using a head, then I use a QR clamp (arca swiss type) instead. It's not necessary either, I just prefer it.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the responses all.

sk66 - Thanks for the in depth response. I've added the P-326 to my basket already. Could you tell me a little but more about your QR clamp? Instead of screwing the monopod on to my lens , I'd prefer if there was some kind of bracket which slides on? (if that makes sense) You'll have to excuse my ignorance here, monopods/tripods are not my forte at all.

Thanks

Kinobe
 
Kinobe said:
Thanks for the responses all.

sk66 - Thanks for the in depth response. I've added the P-326 to my basket already. Could you tell me a little but more about your QR clamp? Instead of screwing the monopod on to my lens , I'd prefer if there was some kind of bracket which slides on? (if that makes sense) You'll have to excuse my ignorance here, monopods/tripods are not my forte at all.

Thanks

Kinobe
Click to expand...

Pretty much any Arca Swiss Clamp can be used. Most have a 3/8-16 threaded hole. Many monopods have a 3/8-16 stud option (the Sirui does) which just screws into the clamp. All of my big lenses have Arca Swiss plates attached, or Arca Swiss compatible feet... you'll need that as well. Then the lens foot just slips into the clamp and you tighten it down. Makes the monopod repositionable and easily removable.
 
I upgraded from a heavy Manfrotto 681b to a Gitzo GM5561T and fitted it with a Kirk (Arca Swiss compatible) quick release clamp. Got the monopod for less than a ton on the bay and have been pretty chuffed with it (generally mounting a gripped D800 with 300mm f4/1.4 TC combo).
 
sk66 said:
Pretty much any Arca Swiss Clamp can be used. Most have a 3/8-16 threaded hole. Many monopods have a 3/8-16 stud option (the Sirui does) which just screws into the clamp. All of my big lenses have Arca Swiss plates attached, or Arca Swiss compatible feet... you'll need that as well. Then the lens foot just slips into the clamp and you tighten it down. Makes the monopod repositionable and easily removable.
Click to expand...

Thanks all for help/recommendations.

Sk66, I ended up geting that exact setup, P-326 with LR10 tilt head. Took it on a recent trip and it was spot on. I can totally recommend the Surui 326 carbon with the LR10. It's not only built like a champ but the combo is light enough to clip onto my bag.

Kinobe
 
Just a quick point, too late for the OP but might help someone just browsing:

I use an MPB.com own brand Carbon Fibre monopod. It holds a 1d Mk.IV and Canon 300mm f2.8 L IS USM II fine. I think I paid less than £40 for it, though some would want to put a Manfrotto ball head on it which will increase the cost a bit.
 
I have a Manfrotto I don't use any more....any use to you?
 
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