Manfrotto 334B Automatic Monopod Replaces 3245 (Black)

I ordered one, and promptly had to order a replacement only to realize it wasn't broken, just poorly engineered. Only one section of the monopod is actuated by the trigger. This means that you have to set it at your height and then lock the bottom section at that height, then the top section is left to collapse or extend. For a 6' guy, this means that instead of the compact stand i had hoped for, i ended up with a 4' stick. Additionally, the sections, once locked, took two people to work up enough torque to unlock them (you twist the pole lefty loosey/righty tighty to lock/unlock) Extremely disappointed that something at this price point would be so poorly designed. Do not waste your money.

This monopod was very good quality the company that sold it to me was very helpful but, I had to send the product back. Not the companies or the equipments fault. It had to do with my inability to keep the equipment balanced. You can never go wrong with a Bogen!

If you carry one of those big cameras around, with the two pound lenses, this is a fine thing to have attached to it. Very sturdy, easily attached and detached with the right head, and it adjusts by gravity to get the right height for the shot. I never go anywhere without it now. Perfect for outdoor photography where a lot of walking around it required. I have been using it for several months now, a trip to the Blue Ridge, numerous trips around Wisconsin, and a lot of field work in dirty environments and it has held up admirably. I have it paired with a Manfrotto 498RC2 ball head and I like the combination. Great for birding, wild flowers, and general outdoor work with a long lens. Update: I have been using it for two years now, in field conditions. I have added a 498RC2 with a Sunwayfoto Arca Swiss mount, and I am updating this review as I am buying a second setup just like it for my wife to use. We are doing a lot of photography for equestrian events, and in varied environments. I have cleaned it once in all of that time, and it is still completely functional, still locks tight, and is still a very handy piece of kit. I highly recommend it for the serious photographer.

Bought this monopod for shooting sports. Use it with a 5D II and a 50D, with 70-200mm 2.8L lens. Out of the box the monopod was easy to use and smooth operating. However after owning it for 1 month and only 2 photo shoots it stopped operating smooth. Not sure but the most recent photo shoot was on a day with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees. I could not open the monopod it felt like it was stuck and the release grip didn't work. I had to pull the lower section out so I could use it. Later that day after the temperature dropped the release mechanism worked better, but never like when new. I wonder if the precise design and the expansion of metal caused this to not operate in such high temeratures. Of course I am not sure of what the actual problem is with this unit, but whether it was temperature or just a failed internal component; in either case it doesn't work like it did when new. Also I am extrememly cautious with my gear and overly protective. Sorry it broke, I really liked the function and design of this unit. I am attempting to return the item for a more traditional Monopod. Currently own 2 680B Manfrottos and work flawless for a couple of years now.

I've been using this monopod for a year or so now. It's a great product for those who are just getting into some of the more professional picture taking. I'd like them to include the swivel head, but that's more of a "i wish i didn't have to spend more money" thing. I've used the monopod for several cameras of differing types. I have a Nikon SLR and a small handycam that get the most use from it. It's very light and easy to carry along with you.

It was stiff and would not telescope the way it was suppose to, so I ended up putting it back in the bag and return it. So unhappy, junk do not buy it ever. So mad, hate the product. $119 down the drain.

Think it’s a little over priced for the quality. Top gets loose because the screws can’t be tightened completely or it won’t collapse into the handle!

I am extremely pleased with the Manfrotto 334B monopod. At first I found it a little acwered to open the extension leg but after a few uses it became more comfortable. Lowering and raising the monopod is easy and quick to do. It is light weight and strong. I would recommend this monopod to any serious armature or professional photographer. It is also very affordable.

small pods, barely 3 feet