Velbon RUP-43 4-Section Monopod

Even with monopods costing double or triple the price, this one is great. I needed one with a tilting head to switch from portrait to landscape fast. This one is fantastic. The only thing I wish it came with is a quick release mount, but for this price I can buy one later and still save money.

I purchased this with the intention of using it with a DSLR. However, the ball head iand mounting platform are small and therefore is more suited for a point and shoot camera. I would not trust it to hold the weight of a DSLR + lens.

And I don't use that word lightly (if you don't believe me, just check my other reviews). Simply put, I can't find a flaw with this thing, with the possible exception that a level indicator would be a nice addition, but who knows if I'd even use that feature were it included.

For a monopod it's rock solid; smart looking and stable. This thing just looks great, and functions preceisely as it should. I combined it with an after market quick release, and it's now exactly the tool I wanted and needed - something lighter and smaller than a tripod for ease of packing, but still sturdy and professional. This ended up being the perfect solution, and I'm extremely pleased.

Simple and strong for the price. Ball head works well, strap is sturdy enough. The ball clamp and adjuster are metal while the leg clamps are unfortunately the usual composite plastic. Be careful with the clamps if you are ever shooting in cold conditions, lest they shatter on you. The legs slide smoothly and the whole construct is quite steady even when fully extended. As others have mentioned, it's a bit long when closed. For the entry-level of expense we're talking about here, it's good quality.

This product is great. Lightweight, portable, fast release.very rigid for most small, medium and lightweight SLRs.