Update: I just hiked 1.5 miles hand holding the Tamron 150-600mm G2 and its a workout but not impossible. Reflecting on the first hike with this lens. I do feel a portable tripod setup will make changing camera settings with this particular lens much easier. The photos did turn out better than I expected using canon full auto P mode. I also a few took photos of birds in flight and they appear to be in focus in my opinion. Two or 3 images were blurred in flight.
I've been hiking at local marsh and several birds egrets and diving birds caught my eye. On average my walks are 1.5 - 2.5 miles. I was able to get some pretty good hand held photos with my Non IS 70-200mm L lens and that was a slight challenge for close ups at the 200mm. I think I read somewhere that a 150-600mm can be hand and still get good photos. I simply looking for an affordable, comfortable, stable set up for wildlife hikes that is neither too heavy or too light for my new Tamron 150-600mm G2 lens. I looked at a Benro VX30 Three Series Arca-Swiss Style Aluminum Ball head 66lbs $150.00 online. Also checked out a Benro #4 MCT48AF Monopod with Flip Locks and 3-Leg Base supports 44lbs $160. This looks like a good value for the money. Pro master GH25K PROFESSIONAL GIMBAL PAN KIT $299.95
I currently have Bogen a 3021 Pro with a large I think 3047 tilt pan head on it 10 or 11 lbs. (no camera and lens) I also have a 3030G max load 13.3 lbs. somewhat smaller weighs 2.3 lbs. It looks like a quality gimbal head is going to cost $400
