Looking for a Tripod/Monopod set

TobascoJackson · Nov 8, 2009

Hey everyone—

I've found this tripod: http://www.amazon.com/Vanguard-Tracker-2-Aluminum-Tripod-Panhead/dp/B000EDJHS4/

and this monopod: http://www.adorama.com/VGAP364.html

I like them both. I like the price ranges of both. However, I'm looking for a set that will take the same quick-release plate so I can waste less time switching plates when I go from tripod to monopod use. Is there any particular set that fits this description? Obviously I want my tripod very sturdy, and tall is good too. Another thing I love about that tripod is its ability to work in reverse (see the 2nd image on the page I linked to). So if there's a monopod that shares a plate type with that tripod and is at least as tall, it would be perfect.

Suggestions?

cfusionpm · Nov 8, 2009

I actually picked up this tripod recently, and like it quite a bit: http://www.promaster.com/products/products.asp?product=6426
Its a Promaster System Pro 1N. What I liked so much about it is it was sturdy and affordable, but more importantly, the middle column comes out to become an extendable monopod.

I just picked up a little 40$ ball head to go with it. Could have a little quicker/easier release on it... but at least the legs are great, IMO, and I love that a twist of the lock will let me pull the middle out as a monopod without having to switch heads or anything. The monopod is a twist lock, which may not be ideal compared to dedicated monopods, but it was good enough for what I needed. Check out a local camera shop to see if they have any to play with. I got mine for 99$ at George's Camera, a local shop in San Diego.

icassell · Nov 8, 2009

..

Most good tripods and monopods have the standard 1/4-20 or 3/8-16 thread for your ball mount. It doesn't matter what brand. Get a standard ball mount for each and put identical quick-release plates on them both (for example Giotto, Kirk, Really Right Stuff). I did that and leave the plate on my camera and long telephoto. I can then pop the camera off the tripod and onto the monopod as I desire.

TobascoJackson · Nov 8, 2009

Lovely - fits my purpose even better than a separate set. How tall is the monopod? And does the tripod come with a stock head? I'd be happy with a tri-pan.

cfusionpm · Nov 8, 2009

Monopod at max hight is about 51". It doesn't come with any stock head; just a flat screw at the top. You can mount a camera onto it, but it won't swivel, tilt, or turn at all. I picked up a cheap ball head to use, and I like it well enough.

TobascoJackson · Nov 9, 2009

Can anyone identify the quick-release plate type on the Vanguard tripod I linked to in my first post? I'm liking that tripod and 3-way pan head more and more, so I'd love to get a monopod that uses the same plate.