Is there any difference between a
monopod used in photography and a monopod used for
hiking? Interesting question and one I get, now and then. I have used both types of monopods for either use, but there are differences.
Monopods used for photography and
cameras, such as the
Bogen 682B, tend to be quicker to set up - you're more likely to get quick-release mechanisms on the legs such as lever locks and a few will even have a leg warmer - a foam section designed for padding when you carry the camera/monopod slung over your shoulder. Camera monopods, though, in my experience, are not designed to support the weight of an adult if you must really lean on the monopod in a critical situation on the trail. Too often the legs sections slip under the weight of an adult, no matter how secure the locks. For trail use, I much prefer a real hiking monopod with twist locking rings which hold the monopod leg sections more tightly than lever locks. Hiking monopods, such as the
Stoney Point, also tend to be trimmer and lighter in weight.
