Originally posted by carrrlangas I guess there is a trade off between functionality and weight...
From what I have seen of trekking sticks versus monopods, this is true. For me, the device has to fit inside a carry-on bag and have a securely fastened rubber boot over the spike - or better no spike at all. That means more sections and more weight. An ability to quickly adjust length is another big plus and generally speaking that style section clamp weighs more.
If these features are of lesser value to the owner than weight, you might be able to remove the handle from a pole of choice and attach a 1/4-20 screw at the top and re-install the handle.
Yes, an always mounted quick release is important. The
Sima style I use is strong yet lighter weight plastic rather than metal with no sharp corners. They are inexpensive enough that I keep one on each of my support devices and cameras. My oldest Sima QR is at least 20 years old and still going strong.
A ball head is really only useful for shooting in portrait mode. All other adjustments are made by moving the support. And since we are talking about a monopod or trekking stick, you will always have your hands on the camera, so a ball head need be neither large nor heavy. I use the
Giottos Professional Mini Ball Head. Again, if you can skip using your stick for portrait mode, you don't really need a ball head.