Trek-Tech TrekPod GO! Monopod/Tripod/Hiking Staff Multi-Use Tool for Image Stabilization for Digital Camera, Video Recorder and Other Optical Devices

I recently bought this from Optics Planet through Amazon. When you assemble this product, you do get feel of a solidly built product. I used it on a recent trip to Yosemite. It worked well as both a hiking stick and a tripod. Ofcourse it can not be compared to a real tripod in terms of stability but who wants to carry a tripod up the vernal falls trail.I found couple of areas that could be improved. The ring that screws tripod section to the main staff becomes loose during the hike. I am afraid, if you do not tighten this screw regularly during a hike, it will get damaged. Also if you take pcitures in portrait mode, one needs to use the heavy force magmount and that too can get loose sometimes with a heavy camera.

I have just begun to use my tripod/momopod with my new camera and a shoulder-stock. For years I have carried a small,lightweight aluminum tripod on my African photo safaris I have taken and rarely did I ever have room to extend all the legs and use it for anything other than as an awkward monopod. This tripod can be used as a monopod/shooting rest for a heavy lens in conjunction with a shoulder-stock and is fast, and convenient without having to manuever three legs in all directons to set it up. I can also use it as a tripod with care (although my big D300 with the 80-400 Nikon VR lens attached is a bit top-heavy to trust it in a high wind...but that is not the kind of shooting I do anyway). I have the shooting rest attachment and have been taking photos around my house and the park nearby for practice and I am really pleased. I think this is the next best thing to lugging a full-size tripod around attched to the camera like Art Wolfe does. Its versatility, ability to be compacted into a case, and the fact taht it's a wonderfully-balanced hiking stick as well are all worth the price.

This thing is great! Small easy to carry, and great for hiking, but for those beautiful shots that just need the hands free the tripod is there for you!!!

I was extremely pleased when I received my "GO" stick. Very impressed with the quality of the product. Everything works like it's supposed to and does it well. A very versatile piece of equipment that has become a valuable part of my camera "stuff". I was tempted to chop off a half star for the stiffer price, but, in reflection, I think it was worth it. I haven't tested it with a heavier DSLR, but it works well with my lighter camera. I was not expecting the Tripod feature to be heavy duty, but it is sturdy enough to be useful. Would like to see a 1/4-20 stud on the lower tripod section so I could mount my camera as a mini tripod; but can't have everything. OEM people at Trek Tech very responsive and helpful with my questions.
Now I have to learn how to use a "hiking stick".

This is the ultimate photgraphers helper! This newest version is great with the capability to pack it in your luggage! The magnetic mount system is perfect! I bought one as a gift and they also love it!