The Low Capacity Monopod Solution

Monopod Solution on GM2540

  1. B2-Pro clamp
  2. Monopod Hardware Kit
  3. Swivel Head #234 (previously the Manfrotto #3232)
  4. Gitzo GM2540 monopod

Don't install some sort of fussy ballhead on your monopod—there's a better answer. You need two parts: a Manfrotto model #234 (previously the Manfrotto #3232) swivel head and our B2-Pro clamp (see other clamp options below). Unlike a ballhead, this compact swivel head tilts on only one axis so it's faster to use; less fussy to control. And if you install the clamp using our Monopod Hardware Kit, the clamp won't loosen and spin. 3232 swivel head

How To:

  1. Remove the round platform from your monopod (see image at left). This is not required, but it produces an overall cleaner look without the platform sticking out under the swivel head.
  2. The threaded stud in all Gitzo monopods is reversible (and most other manufacturer's monopods, too, but not all): ¼"-20 on one end, and the larger 3/8"-16 on the other end. Install the stud so that the fatter 3/8ths end is sticking up. Gitzo D01.110BUT NOTE! The 2007 Gitzo® 6X series monopods come with a stud that has a fixed nut; without the platform, the stock stud is too long. If you want to remove the platform and you have a 6X series monopod, purchase Gitzo replacement stud with removable nut: D01.110. D01.110
  3. Use a fat flat blade screwdriver to remove the reducer bushing from the threaded socket in the bottom of the swivel head; set aside.
  4. Take apart the swivel by spinning the T-knob all the way off and pull out the bolt. Discard the reversible stud and grey thumb wheel. Monopod Hardware KitPlace a stainless steel split ring lockwasher onto a 3/8"-16 stainless steel bolt and drive it through the platform of the swivel head with a crescent wrench (or better, use a 9/16" box socket) into our B2-Pro clamp. Re-assemble the swivel head. Monopod Hardware Kit
  5. Use a touch of non-permanent thread lock fluid to secure the swivel head to the Gitzo threaded stud. LocTite 242We recommend using LocTite® 242—available at auto parts store or in single-application tubes from Really Right Stuff. Don't forget to sandwich the hand strap! LocTite 242

For exclusive “heavy artillery” use, eliminate the swivel entirely and attach clamp directly to the monopod (consider our longer clamps for this application). Not only is the Manfrotto swivel head too wimpy for really big glass (it's only rated at 5.5-pounds), but there's usually not much need for up/down swivel with 400mm lenses and larger. At this focal length, everything is pretty far away and simply leaning the monopod fore & aft is sufficient (especially when shooting with non-full frame cameras that have a focal length multiplication factor like the Canon 30D or Nikon D200/D2-series).

Swivel head with grey thumbwheel Swivel head with Monopod Hardware Kit
Example of B2-Pro clamp installed using the supplied grey thumbwheel. Shown here with clamp jaws parallel to swivel (the common orientation when mounting a lens). Example of B2-Pro clamp installed using Monopod Hardware Kit. Shown here with clamp jaws perpendicular to swivel (the common orientation when mounting a camera).

Clamp Options

B2-Pro clampWe typically recommend our basic B2-Pro clamp, at left; it's the most economical and most practical choice. But if you're going to mount the clamp directly to the monopod for use with "heavy artillery" glass, then consider a longer clamp, B2-Pro/L. Its jaw length is 0.8-inches/20mm longer and gives you a bigger platform for long lenses. Iif you're more comfortable with our patented lever-release clamps, then consider B2 LR II or the longer B2 LLR II. But lever-release clamps are not our first recommendation for monopods for a couple of reasons:

  • They're more expensive and include a spirit level; a useless feature on a monopod.
  • When you flip a lever-release clamp open (even if only halfway open), the load can slide freely because the clamp jaws are wide open. But with a screw-knob clamp, you can crack the jaws open just a touch and nudge the load to adjust the balance point; better fine control over the load.

B2 LR II lever-release clampOne great reason for a lever-release clamp on a monopod, though, is the ability to top-load. When you're balancing a heavy lens and a single leg, it's nice to be able to top-load your lens and snap it in; no more struggling with trying to feed the lens plate in from the side (this also easily allows you to keep both safety stops on your lens plate).

clamps

 

             
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