Automatic monopod

[tarves57]

I feel that a monopod might come in useful when I'm out on a walk. I can't be bothered with the thought of a tripod, and wondered if anyone has tried these "automatic" monopods, whereby you squeeze a handle to change the height (with one hand presumably, whilst holding your camera with the other, ready to attach?) and let go when it's the right height, to lock.

The last leg on monopods I've looked at (briefly) all seem to be a bit flimsy and wobbly. If not the automatic, would 3 sections be sturdier than 4 on a monopod?

The weight of my digital camera and biggest lens does not exceed 2.5kg.

Any advice appreciated. Ooh er...and do I need a head/quick release thingy as well? My main target would be birds/animals.

Susan

[gthang]

my dad has a manfrotto tripod, and it comes with a grip action ball head (like you described).

Unfortunately, Manfrotto only sells regular tripods. Fortunately for you, these tripods have optional grip action ball head (see above). so I guess you can do one of those. But theres a hefty price tag. The monopod (PN 3449) can extend to 70.4 inches (4 leg sections).

Manfrotto also has an automatic monopod, PN 3245, that when fully extended reaches 65.4 inches. fully retracted, the monopod is 26.7 inches; weighs 1 kilo, and max load capacity is 17.6 kilograms.

their website is www.bogenphoto.com

[tarves57]

I don't think we are talking about the same thing here. This is one I found after an online search:
http://www.epinions.com/Bogen_3245_3_Section_Automatic_Monopod__Black___Tr ipods_3245/display_~full_specs
i.e. the automatic bit with the grip is on the leg itself, not on the head, and is used to quickly change the height.
I just wondered if anyone has experience of using such a monopod, and their opinion of it.
Having said that, an automatic grip on the head itself is probably also a good idea, but as you say, sounds expensive!
Thanks
Susan

[tarves57]

Aha.... that's why I couldn't find it on a UK site!
Different name and different number. Does anyone have one?

[Dan drough]

Warehouse Express have that one for £74.95. The Manfrotto code number for it is 334B - they have different codes in the US and go under the Bogen name.


$79 or £74 - we in the UK are being ripped off everywhere!!!!!!!

[pluvanut]

Aha.... that's why I couldn't find it on a UK site!
Different name and different number. Does anyone have one?

FWIW The Manfrotto site BrianB quoted above includes both Bogen and Manfrotto codes, very handy.

[tarves57]

$79 or £74 - we in the UK are being ripped off everywhere!!!!!!!

You can say that again. However, after looking at a number of other options I went for it, and it's really good. Strong enough to stand the weight of my camera + lens, yet not too heavy to carry around. I think I bought the wrong type of head for it though and will be selling that off soon, to buy one that is specifically for monopods. (Can't remember the number/type because I'm at work, but I'll offer it for sale here first).

Susan