I'm looking for a highly portable and lightweight monopod that I can take backpacking/bike riding, but still use with my 40D and 100-400L. Finding a suitable monopod probably wouldn't be as challenging if I wasn't on a budget. Any wallet-friendly monopods fit my needs? Good ball head/monopod setups? Thanks for all input.

Probably the smallest and lightest and sturdiest that I know of is the Manfrotto 695B. It closes up the smallest and is light. Most are longer and not as compact. You can get smaller, lighter or sturdier, but getting a good combination of all three is tough.

If you're interested, I have one I'm thinking of selling since I never use it. If so, just PM me.

J.

I use the Manfrotto 681 and use it with my 100-400. It's not the smallest and lightest, but it's a great monopod and you should be able to find one locally fior less than $75 US.

...or Manfrotto 680b @ <$70.

Jim

I have a Manfrotto 681 as well but I wouldn't recommend it for someone looking for small & light.

Someone looking for something that could be used to demolish a car, yes, but not small and light.

I bought my dad the smaller of the two Feisol carbon fiber tripods and has been very happy using it with his 300mm f/4 and teleconverters.

I bought the RRS (Really Right Stuff) monopod solution using Gitzo GM2540. I love it.

http://reallyrightstuff.com/mmRRS/Others/MonopodSolution.pdf