Monopod for Binoculars

[parshal]

I'm not sure if I've read much about it here but I wondered if anyone uses a monopod with binoculars. I got a Sirui P-326 six section monopod for $99. It weighs 14.8 oz. on my scale. I took my 10x50 Swaro EL's and screwed the tripod mount directly to the monopod. I'm 5' 8" and with the monopod fully extended it's right at eye level. I thought to myself this won't be any more steady than with free hands but, boy, was I wrong. I can hold it much more steady when I'm standing than with free hands. I can only imagine how much more steady someone could hold 15x56 or larger binoculars.

There's no way this would work with a spotting scope but I can see taking this up the hills with binos for ease of use. The monopod is very solid at full length and could work to pitch a shelter, too. I'm sure you might could get away with using it as a walking stick.

 

[Lawnboi]

I just use a trekking pole to support my binos like a monopod. Works well enough if you have a good adjustable trekking pole. Can't use a trekking pole while standing though, well maybe I could at 5'6 but I haven't tried.

I know you can get camera adapters for Leki trekking poles I wonder if the bolt would work

 

[parshal]

After reading your post I went outside to test stability hands free, just monopod with no tripod adapter and with the adapter connected. The monopod with no adapter was much more stable than hand free. Using the tripod adapter was noticeably more stable but not as much a difference as with just the monopod. I imagine the difference would be much greater with higher magnification.

 

[jpolson]

There are a few companies making walking stick/trekking poles with a 1/4"-20 thread out of the top. I have a few made by Stoney Point...no longer available...Brunton makes one too. I am sure there are others. Works great for me. If you add a v-yoke to your pack (link below), it also makes a great shooting stick. A true multi-tasker.

http://www.amazon.com/V-Yoke-Attach...=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B005F0S29G

 

[bbrown]

Camofire has had the vortex walking stick with the stud on top for like 85% off making it less than $20. Maybe give them a call.
I have rested my binos on the top cam of my bow - that really helps.

 

[colonel00]

Or, you can just make your own.

http://www.rokslide.com/forums/showthread.php?10666-Trekking-pole-threaded-insert-mod

I just need to find one of these

Here is a recent thread that is similar.

http://www.rokslide.com/forums/showthread.php?14802-Pan-head-for-trekking-pole