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National Geographic NGTM1 Tundra Monopod with Head and Quick Release Plate 785PL (Gray) by National Geographic
Digital Photo Product DetailsManufacturer: National Geographic Model: NGTM1 Color: Gray Product features: - Built in quick release system.
Accessories:
Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of National Geographic NGTM1 Tundra Monopod with Head and Quick Release Plate 785PL (Gray)Customer Review: Good value for lightweight camera Summary: 4 Stars
I'm not sure how much I'll be using a monopod, so didn't want to shell out a lot of money for a "top-of-the-line-sturdy" product, such as an expensive Manfrotto (Manfrotto also manufactures the NGTM1 for National Geographic). And I wanted something with a quick release. I considered the Canon Monopod 100 for SLR Cameras & Lenses but adding a 3rd-party quick release was going to cost another $11 and I got a very good price from Amazon on an open-box NGTM1.
I think my choice is going to work well for me as a casual user. The monopod is rated for 2.2 lbs of equipment, while my DSLR + 28-135 mm lens weigh 3 lb altogether. Nonetheless, I feel safe using it on the monopod, particularly in the horizontal position, since I'm supporting the camera with both hands and angling the monopod from its base. I don't think I'd feel safe leaving the monopod attached to a heavy camera and transporting the equipment by gripping the monopod. The stem in the ball head doesn't feel as if it'll take that kind of abuse. Because I feel a need to keep hold of my heavy camera while it's attached to the monopod, it's awkward to change the position of the far sections while the camera is mounted. However, I feel very safe handling a 1.5-lb camera attached to this monopod and would have no problems transporting a mounted light camera by gripping the monopod. I posted some images highlighting some other design pluses and minuses in the image gallery. For now, I'm satisfied with my choice, but if you are sure you'll be using a monopod a lot, I'd go for something sturdier, especially if you have a full-size DSLR.
As an aside, I think I get better images with my Canon lens image stabilization ON while using this monopod.
UPDATE: I just took the monopod on a trip. I'm not changing the overall number of stars I'm giving it, but I do want to say that the rubber foot isn't well-designed. It slips off too easily and I almost lost it twice while it bounced while hooked to my backpack. I've rubber banded a cover to the monopod to keep the foot on while the monopod's not in use. I also used a heavy needle to push a length of fishing line through the rubber foot and secured the fishing line to the base of the monopod.
Description of National Geographic NGTM1 Tundra Monopod with Head and Quick Release Plate 785PL (Gray)This Monopod is the perfect addition to your photographic tools. A great choice when you cannot carry a tripod. To make the monopod more compact, the ball head can be removed. This also allows you to attach the camera directly to the monopod. Built-in head; closed length: 18.90 in.; gray color; front tilt: -90° / +90°; lateral tilt: -90° / +90°; leg cross-section: oval; 5 leg sections; load capacity: 2.20 lbs.; material: aluminum; maximum height: 61.42 in.; minimum height: 18.90 in.; panoramic rotation: 360 °; quick release; weight: 0.86 lbs.
Monopods
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