On buying a head for a B-M 685B monopod

I've read as much about monopods as I can absorb without solving my real problem: As I have pretty well decided to get the 685B primarily because of the rapid deployment feature and weight-bearing, I need to pick a head. I'll be using a 40D, grip, and an EF 100-400. This rig weighs about 6-7 pounds.

I need some guidance. The quick release heads (if I'm using the correct terminology) make me a little nervous, given the weight. I'm not planning on carrying the equipment over my shoulder, but I can visualize my tilting the camera/lens on occasion. I hope not to have to match the $145 I'll spend on the monopod to buy a good, strong head.

Help.

Thanks,
Mike

What are you shooting? If sports, you don't need any head. Just get a A-S clamp and screw that right to the monopod. THen get the right plate for your lens and you're good to go.

With long tele's you often don't need a head since a slight angle will take you up quite a bit at the subject.

If you do need a head, consider the manfrotto 3232. The load rating is wrong - I've used it with heavy gear all the time - and in point of fact, that is what RRS recommends on monopod.

Quick release is not the problem. They will hold just fine especially if you have something that is Arca Swiss compatible. Not have a QR on a monopod is a huge hassle. That said, I do not have the same confidence in the manfrotto RC2 or RC4 systems that I do in the A-S system.

J.

Another vote for the 3232 swivel head. I use one with my 100-400 with no issues.