Monopod: I would like to purchase a collapsible Mono-pod that I can carry in my airline overhead bag that would be suitable for my Sony A6300 fitted with the Sony 100-400 telephoto...

kinde

I would like to purchase a collapsible Mono-pod that I can carry in my airline overhead bag that would be suitable for my Sony A6300 fitted with the Sony 100-400 telephoto lens. I need it to be light as possible with sufficient height to get to eye level with camera. I have been doing a bit of research on it and have seen some with small "feet", ball heads, etc. I think a tilt function would help when photographing birds and flowers. Having had both shoulders repaired /replaced, I am trying t take the weight of them. I have looked at Monofort, Really Right Stuff etc. but now have need to listen to those who have experience with the equipment I am using. Would appreciate any advice. Thanks

rmalarz Loc: Tempe, Arizona

I use a Manfrotto 679. I was concerned about taking it on an airplane. A friend of mine and i discussed the issue and resolved the concerns in a rather unique manner. Using my engineering background, I designed what looks like a very custom made cane top which fastens to the monopod. My friend owns a machine shop and "whittled" a very classy looking handle. When I've had to travel with it, I fasten the cane handle to it, adjust the length, and use it to "aid" my walking. I place it on the conveyor to pass through x-ray, and "hobble" to the other end to retrieve it. Once on the plane, it collapses to 24" and fits in the overhead quite nicely.
--Bob

kinde wrote:

I would like to purchase a collapsible Mono-pod th... (show quote)

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

I use a Canon Monopod 500.
It has a ball head, goes past my eye height, and has a rubber ball type foot.
Not sure of the weight rating though.

rjaywallace Loc: Wisconsin

I have a meFoto “WalkAbout” model, a nice complement for my lightweight cameras. It is a top-selling model and you can add ‘feet’ to it for even more stability. Be aware you cannot walk away from a monopod with feet. I know there are other heavier, stronger options, but many are overkill for small, light cameras.

MrBob Loc: lookout Mtn. NE Alabama

rmalarz wrote:

I use a Manfrotto 679. I was concerned about takin... (show quote)

Rigging up a removable cane or walking stick type handle is the greatest Idea I have heard in a long time... Now to conjure up a slick handle...

rehess Loc: South Bend, Indiana, USA

rjaywallace wrote:

I have a meFoto “WalkAbout” model, a nice complement for my lightweight cameras. It is a top-selling model and you can add ‘feet’ to it for even more stability. Be aware you cannot walk away from a monopod with feet. I know there are other heavier, stronger options, but many are overkill for small, light cameras.

I'm not sure if this is the same device, but I have a MeFoto device which serves as both a monopod and a walking stick. It collapses when not in use; when my wife and I flew to California, I packed it in my suitcase, which is not very large.

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

I have several, but use my Carbon Fiber 3 Legged Thing with a Vanguard SBH 250 Ball head. The monopod isn't available any longer though

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/994936-REG/3_legged_thing_3ltbob_carbon_fiber_monopod.html

BJW

kinde wrote:

I would like to purchase a collapsible Mono-pod th... (show quote)

Check B&H for this: Mountainsmith Trekker FX Walking Stick & Monopod. Under $30. Great reviews.

BJW

Cookie223 Loc: New Jersey

Take a look at the Sirui 204SR. It has great reviews, and is very stable.

jaymatt Loc: Alexandria, Indiana

rmalarz wrote:

I use a Manfrotto 679. I was concerned about takin... (show quote)

Clever!

Booker

Whatever you choose, I recommend a carbon fiber monopod - they are very light weight for easy travel.

Grnway Loc: Manchester, NH

The good thing about a monopod is that you're relying on it just to steady your shot and take the weight off. You don't need an incredibly expensive platform like you would need with a tripod. You do, however, need good leg locks to be sure it doesn't give on you when you're leaning on it a little!

I have an Oben (which may be B&H Photo's own brand) with a Sirui L-10 tilt head. It's a pretty heavy duty setup and heavier than you may want.

Most of the monopod heads will have the tilt function. Ball heads are ok but are unnecessary, and not quite as stable as the tilt heads (and more expensive!), unless you plan on shooting in portrait mode often.

Also, you're having a mirrorless will also mean carrying a lot less weight even with the 100-400. I have a similar setup, with a heavier body (Fuji X-t2 and 100-400) and would be comfortable using any of the aforementioned setups by other 'Hoggers in this thread.

tomad Loc: North Carolina

rjaywallace wrote:

I have a meFoto “WalkAbout” model, a nice complement for my lightweight cameras. It is a top-selling model and you can add ‘feet’ to it for even more stability. Be aware you cannot walk away from a monopod with feet. I know there are other heavier, stronger options, but many are overkill for small, light cameras.

They sell commercially manufactured ones...

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Handle-Grip-Head-Converting-Benro-Manfrotto-Monopod-for-Outdoor-Walking-Stick-/191742358804

markngolf Loc: Bridgewater, NJ

I love that "walking stick" option with custom head!!
Very cool, Bob.

I have a carbon fiber "Slik" that I've had for years. It seems to work for me. I've mounted my Canon 5D MIII with 70 - 200mm f/2.8 II with 2x extender. It would be much better with a tripod foot. I may buy one.
Mark

rmalarz wrote:

I use a Manfrotto 679. I was concerned about takin... (show quote)

philo Loc: philo, ca

go to vanguard direct, I just ordered a monopod that has a 3 leg base. Havn't received it yet.