Hiya, I have not used the monopods you have listed, but I do have the Manfrotto 682B, and I like it. The only problem is that the tripod legs clank inside the body when I use it as a walking stick (and who doesn't?). It gets annoying and attracts too much attention. I bought the rubber spike and carry the tripod legs in my cam. bag. I use the 484RC2 ball head with great success. It's strong enough to hold up my Sigma 135-400mm (with the tripod legs attached). Hope this helps in some way.
Hasta la Vista, Alejandro > Hey, > > I know we've had the monopod discussion before, but two questions: > > 1. I'm buying a Manfrotto, and I'm trying to decide between the 681 > and the 3216/18. Any real difference? > > 2. Any particular head you might recommend, or have you found it easy > to go without? > > Thanks. Feel free to contact me off-list.