5 stars for a leg

For the first steps with telephoto lenses and zooms on my DSLR, I had an inexpensive Tamron bought myself monopods. Especially for this application Einbeine are super practical because easy to transport and low in weight. A strap extends and the thing is reassigned.
By using a higher-quality zoom lens (70-200 Tamron / 2.8) weight including camera and BG rose to more than 2kg. That made the tripod head of Tamron not with and became unstable. The camera tipped off despite clamping, but then what was a pain in the long run. Since a change of the tripod head was out of the question, I looked around for a new monopod. In one of Pentax forums I came across the Manfrotto 685B.

The operating concept of Manfrotto made me curious. So I ordered it. When unpacking it is clear that plays the more than 130 expensive tripod in a different league. The processing of high quality materials (anodized ALU etc.) of 685B is excellent. Sophisticated The operating concept and thought. The manufacturer indicates 8kg load capacity, which is reasonable for the 685er loosest.
Even the pistol grip of the Manfrotto immediately catches the eye. With him the three-part telescope is adjusted and positioned. A small safety lever prevents unintentional release of the locking. At the other end of the stand there is a more flexible, sufficiently large rubber foot. This is by means of one or unscrew free a metal tip that the tripod can stand securely in its place in unpaved terrain. Extremely practical I find the kickstand. Unfolding, draufstellen, loosen lock and pull the tripod only upwards. Within a few seconds the up to 170cm high 685er is ready for use.

The Manfrotto comes from the factory without a tripod head. I find that quite fittingly, because the buyer can then decide individually for one, designed according to his needs tripod head solution. The downside is that the price goes up again.
Unlike my Vorrezensenten I opted for a "simple" solution. Since the "Panhead" is already included free with monopod, I have decided for the Manfrotto 234RC. This "disposable Eiger" allows for the portrait. More brauchts not with my monopod. A ball head, I only use the tripod. This saves weight and is easier in handling. He also drives with its well 30 the cost price of the complete kit not continue unnecessarily high.
The tripod head is secured by convenient knurled grip of Manfrotto. Wisely Manfrotto also supplies a threaded insert for the adjustment of tripod heads from other manufacturers.

Short and sweet

Positive:
+ Feel and processing
+ Operating Concept
+ High flexibility
+ Quickly ready / stowed
+ Equipment

Negatives:
- High cost price
- Tripod head must be ordered separately

Neutral:
o shoulder belt instead wrist strap would be desirable

My Faziz: I only thing missing is a shoulder for luck. Manfrotto has instead packed stable hand strap. But that's a luxury problem and can be combined with offerings from the accessories shelf quickly beseitigen.In connection with the 234RC is the 685B a very powerful and stable monopod, with probably the best because most comfortable operating concept. 5 stars for the Manfrotto.