Manfrotto monopods and heads.

[c_b_b]

I've read a few threads on here about different monopods and seem to have narrowed my choice down to the 681B.

I need to know whether i should get the 486rc2 head or the 488? I'll have a 400D, grip and 100-400 lens attached.

[gabrioladude]

get the 488

I have both the 486 and the 488 and the 100-400

you can use the 486 if you use the collar (loosed first) to rotate the lens
but I prefer the 488 in all circumstances simply because it provides more grip

[Lowner]

I use a 486 ballhead on my 694 monopod, so either of your choices will work . I use a 30D and Sigma 170-500 for motorsport with this rig.

But I have sold my RC2 clamp and fitted a Markins QR60 clamp in its place. The RC2 with the PL200 plates never actually let me down, but always worried me.

Richard

[Mith242]

I also agree. You might be able to get by with the 486 but I think the 488 will be more solid and worth the money.

[Lowner]

Should have said: A lot of monopod users do not bother with a ballhead at all, instead fixing the clamp directly to the monopod. I don't like this, preferring some means of ajustment, but I thought I ought to mention it.

Richard

[c_b_b]

Right the 488 it is then.

One quick question though, will i need a clamp or a plate as well? :oops:

[Lowner]

The RC2 bit of the product name means it comes with the RC2 quick release clamp as standard. I believe you get one PL200 plate as well, but not sure about that.

Richard

[SkipD]

For a monopod (I have a Manfrotto 680B), I use the Manfrotto 486RC2 ball head and cannot find anything to complain about with the combination.

I use the Manfrotto 488RC2 ball head on my most-used tripod (a Manfrotto 3021BPro), and it is definitely better for that application than the 486RC2 is.

The 488RC2 ball head would be a bit heavy on the monopod and its pan release would be useless on the monopod.

If you get either (or both) Manfrotto 48xRC2 ball heads, you will want enough quick release plates to leave one on each and every camera body or lens that you would fasten to the ball head(s). One quick-release plate is supplied with each ball head.

[c_b_b]

Thanks for the replies.

I'll stick with the 488 and if it is overkill i can transfer it to a tripod when i get round to buying one.