SLIK Lightweight, Compact Black Monopod

Decent enough monopod for the price but I do prefer something a little stronger

I borrowed a Slik Insta-lok T-210 from a friend and was hoping to get one like it. That product is much lighter weight than this one, plus it has an attached tilt head that is very easy to use, and it only has two sections. I didn’t fully understand that it has no tilt head attached – and to get one will be expensive and make the whole thing weigh even more. I can use it without a tilt head, but if I can get the Insta-lok T-210 it seems a MUCH better option. Three sections make this one compact down to a (slightly) shorter length, which might be a plus when traveling, but two sections on the T-210 makes it lighter weight AND easier and quicker to use in the field. Apparently, Slik does not make the Insta-lok T-210 anymore? Happily, I found one on eBay for $17 and may try to return the compact. The “compact monopod” is a bit sturdier than the Insta-lok T-210, but that is of little consequence for a monopod, which you always need to hold onto anyway – it’s not like it’s going to blow over.

This monopod is well worth the price. The quality is excellent and very lightweight. Used this instead of a tripod to take photos of items to list on eBay. It was faster to use and easier than the tripod. Cut the time for each photo in half! Highly recommend this product.

When you attach this monopod to the Zhiyun Smooth 5S Gimbal, it moves the center of gravity to the middle of the handle, for perfect balancing (I had to test many monopod models). This weights only 11 oz, and can hold up to 8 lbs (website says 1 lb, which is incorrect). It can also be used to shoot upside down or to slowly raise the Gimbal to get a Drone Shot lifting off the ground. Highly recommended.