I need a really, Really sturdy Monopod...

Corto

Corto

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What do you all suggest?

I need something that can double as a walking stick, As I have a bad ankle that needs some help in the woods. (multiple surgeries)

I dont care what it weighs, But it needs to be able to handle serious abuse.

Thanks all
 
There is a compâny that makes a carbon fibre walking stick that has retractable feet to become a tripod. The reference is on my macbook pro, which is having the hard disk replaced, but if you do a search, you may be able to find it.
 
I once had an incredibly sturdy monopod made from a 6' aluminum tube I bought at the hardware store. I inserted a short wooden dowel in either end after cutting it to proper length. The bottom had a crutch tip and the top had a 1/4" bolt inserted in a hole in the dowel.

It was very low cost and non-collapsible. If I used a monopod today I would build another one.
 
Corto said:
What do you all suggest?

I need something that can double as a walking stick, As I have a bad ankle that needs some help in the woods. (multiple surgeries)

I dont care what it weighs, But it needs to be able to handle serious abuse.

Thanks all
Click to expand...

I have a Cullmann that can be used to fend off a bear, should you meet one. PM me if you're interested; I haven't had the need for it in years.

Harry
 
I have a Bogen/Manfrotto monopod that is definitely strong and sturdy! I also have one called "The Chief of Staffs" that is lighter than the Bogen, yet plenty sturdy.
 
How about a 4x4? Couldn't resist.

Years ago I picked up the perfect monopod at the Grand Canyon gift shop. Like you I was looking for something I could also use for walking support. The gift job had very nice hiking sticks made of aluminum, with a rubber covering and adjustable length via an internal click stop. It was topped off with a nice wooden knob and hand strap. The knob unscrewed to reveal the typical 1/4" camera screw. Unfortunately there is no name on it so I can't tell you who makes it. I would look under hiking sticks in sporting stores for what you want.
 
Beemermark,

I have one exactly like you are describing. Bought it at Mountain Equipment Co-op in Vancouver BC quite a while ago. I still have and use it. However, they don't sell that exact model anymore. I will look at it when I get home and see if the brand label is still on it. It can support a lot of weight without any problems.

Akitadog


Beemermark said:
How about a 4x4? Couldn't resist.

Years ago I picked up the perfect monopod at the Grand Canyon gift shop. Like you I was looking for something I could also use for walking support. The gift job had very nice hiking sticks made of aluminum, with a rubber covering and adjustable length via an internal click stop. It was topped off with a nice wooden knob and hand strap. The knob unscrewed to reveal the typical 1/4" camera screw. Unfortunately there is no name on it so I can't tell you who makes it. I would look under hiking sticks in sporting stores for what you want.
Click to expand...
 
Bob: Brilliant! I was going to suggest a heavy branch from the woods and sinking a 1/4 screw in it. But his suggestion will be lighter and stiffer.
 
Take a look at the TrekPod. www.TrekPod.com. It is a monopod which doubles as a hiking staff or vice versa. Comes with a ball head with a heavy duty magnet attachment. . You may be concerned about the magnet but mine holds a Pentax K10 with 55-300 zoom securely. Plus it has a safety line. Highly recommended.
John
 
While everyone else went from the aspect of a monopod first, I think your best bet safety wise is to look at sturdy walking staff first and then opt for the best one with a camera screw. You can always purchase a small ball head or quick release head and add it to the the staff via trhe camera screw. Your first concern should be the ankle - they work best in pairs and keeping the weak one safe will ensure you are able to get out and about to enjoy your cameras. A good walking staff is designed to support your body where as a good monopod is designed to support a camera - quite abit of difference between the two.
 
While in Glacier National Park hiking I used a Manfrotto 680B monopod. Thick, sturdy, and collapses down to about 20" i think--pretty small.
 
Back in the 80's everyone used the Gitzo 564. I have one, I swear by it - very stout, holds a 400 f/2.8 and motorized body - so it is strong. They are kinda hard to find these days, I think they make a newer one called the 1564.
 
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