recommendations for a monopod

I want a monopod for a nikon D200 with 80-200 f/2.8 or 70-200 f/2.8 lens.

I'd like somthing that is easy and quick to adjust in height and is reasonably

strong (rigid). The bogen 3245 automatic pod seems to fit the bill . DOes

anyone recommend this monopod or any other monopo? I dont want to spend more

than $100. Thanks for your advice

I have two. One is a Bogen (but I'm sorry I don't have the model). It's the one with the lever legs like a 3021 tripod. I also carry a Leitz Tiltall that I've had for 20 years or more. It's very light, easy to set up, and fits my 6'-3" height pretty well.

Michael, can the height of the leitz tiltall be quickly adjusted?

I use Bogen (don't remember model number, but there are several aluminium models for around USD 60), and Bogen 3229 Head that costs around USD 35. Pretty sturdy and stable. I am able to carry it on Lowepro Dryzone 200 and it does not feel too heavy

I just got that 86 dollar carbon fiber one from Adorama and it really does seem to be built very well. I added a small ball head to it and I like it a lot.

Yeah, it's a pretty fast tripod. I like the Bogen because of the lever locks. It's maybe a tad faster.

Manfrotto makes a very sturdy 2 loc model that would work nicely. More than 2 locs seems to compromise rigidity and makes adjustment a pain. The auto model always struck me as wimpy and fiddly. Ball heads are problematic. The little Manfrotto flip head(#234?)with a QR plate works well for me.

"I use Bogen (don't remember model number, but there are several aluminium models for around USD 60), and Bogen 3229 Head that costs around USD 35. Pretty sturdy and stable. I am able to carry it on Lowepro Dryzone 200 and it does not feel too heavy."

 

I had the 679B(may be the one mentioned above) and 3229 when I used to have a 70-200. Great combo, especially for the price.

Manfrotto 681 with 3232 swivel. You can get it for $75. Very strong, very easy to adjust, very durable. It also has a nice rubber foam grip.

I also have the Bogen 681B and you can get it at BH for 55.00. The lever locks are easy and quick to use.

 

I use it with the Kirk MPA-1 3232 swivel head with quick release and works great. It costs about 90.00 at kirk and its worth it IMO.

 

If you get just the 3232 it tends to slip and will drive you crazy.

My vote for the Manfrotto too. It's reasonably inexpensive and sturdy enough to be utilized for self defense in a pinch. :-)

I have two copies of the Bogen 3245. It is very quick for height adjustment. A normal MO for me is to have the long lens on the monopod, with the adjustment near max extension. If the action comes towards me, it's pretty simple to squeeze the grip and shorten the pod by a foot or more. Then there's ample room to bring the second camera (with short lens) up and shoot. Neckstrap on the first camera (with pod) keeps it from falling over.

<p>Other than weight issues, is it worth getting a $150 Gitzo over the Manfrotto monopod ?</p>