We just got back from a fun time. And I have dozens of photos of relatives to edit and burn to cd..oh well, it will happen sometime.

When is a monopod a walking stick? Forum threads have discussed using a monopod for steadier shots and even for using as a substitute hiking stick when needed.   My Manfrotto monopod was small blessing when going down a rather short trail to a bluff overhang. The trail is as shown in the last photo. I cannot show the lack of balance in my feet right now or when I took an extra step unexpectedly and decided to get some more support. 

 

This monopod did pretty well for a quick fill in for a hiking stick. I would not put a lot of weight on it but used it as an extra leg for balance on the rocks. When the option is watching the vultures or having the vultures watch me at the bottom of a deep gorge at dinner time….well, use a hiking stick.