Site Supporter Registered: September, 2010 Location: MD Posts: 1,029 | Review Date: December 8, 2010 | Recommended | Price: $53.00
| Rating: 9 |
Pros: | compactness, lightweight, sturdiness | Cons: | only comes w/ fixed mounting screw | | I purchased this Induro model after a long search for a inexpensive, compact, but sturdy monopod. I wanted one that would attach to my sling bag (Lowepro 202 or CaseLogic 205) without sticking out. I am very pleased with how sturdy this one is at less than half the price of the carbon fiber model CM25. The sections are tightened/released with turning knobs that work well and are secure without needing to overtighten them. (Getting it setup is especially quick, because all four knobs can be loosened with a single twist.) It has a padded handle and a good wrist strap. An extra bonus is the sheath that protects the handle which also has a belt loop if you want to carry it that way.
There is only a mounting screw, so you really want to get some kind of ball head for it. Induro has their own (BHD1/2), but at nearly $200 each, those weren't in my range. Instead, for about $20 total, I picked up a Giottos MH1004 Mini Ball Head and a Sima QuicKonnect that gives me all the adjustments I want and a quick release.
I am 6' tall, so I was a little concerned that its extended height of 57.9" might be too short for me. If I attach the camera directly to the screw mount, it's just about right and quite comfortable with which to work. Adding the ball head and QuicKonnect adds a couple more inches of height.As you can imagine, the bottom section is the smallest/weakest, but it still is solid enough. The foot of the monopod is a small, medium-soft rubber pad. It works just fine indoor or outside.
I do have a tripod to use when the situation calls for one, but I really appreciate the convenience of this monopod. It's a great carry-around companion.
[I bought this at Amazon where it is sold as an Induro Alloy 6M Monopod AM25. What I received, and what appears to be the model now available on the Induro site is the Induro Alloy 8M Monopod AM25. Specs are identical.]
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