Monfrotto 681B-RC2

I am looking to get a monopod. I have seen the 681B mentioned positively by quite a few people. I have a few questions though.

#1 The tripod alone will attach to the camera and/or lens without adding a head, correct?

#2 If I got it with the RC2 Quick Release, that is only rated at 6lbs. I have the 70-200 2.8 IS USM lens which is around 3.7lbs. Is that a risky situation? Wouldn't some momentum from moving the lens back and forth to shoot sports create a force greater then 6lbs? Would it be safer just to mount the lens directly to the monopod which is rated at 26lbs?

Thanks.

Yes, the threaded stud on the monopod will attach dirctly to the camera or a lens ring. I prefer to use a ballhead and a QR clamp but it boils down to personal preference.

I have never understood how manufacturers calculate maximum recommended weights. There seems to be no industry standard so Manfrotto may be very conservative while others (a lot) less so. Back when I used the RC2 on a tripod I used a Sigma 170-500 and while it never inspired confidence, it did not actually ever let me down.

Manfrotto tends to be on the under spec side with weight ratings, they also rate their 3232/3229 tilt head for only around 5.5lbs but it can easily hold much more than that.

The RC2 is very sturdy, should hold the 70-200 2.8 IS with no problem.

Thanks for sharing. That helps a lot.