In this article, I will take a look at the top Black Friday deals on convertible tripods that also double as monopods, which are ideal for use with your binoculars or spotting scopes, be that for observation of digiscoping.
Why Choose a Convertible Tripod-Monopod?
One of my go-to tripods is the Bresser BX-5 PRO which also converts into a monopod and if I think about it, the reasons I use it so often are for the following:
- Versatility: I use the tripod for the times when I need the most stability or during long periods of observation and then switch it to a monopod for more dynamic, mobile use, out in the field.
- Space-Saving: With limited space in my studio, I have one piece of kit that fulfils two functions.
- Adaptability: Monopods are excellent for crowded areas, hiking, or for viewing and capturing faster-moving subjects. Then I use the tripod more when I need a really steady view (often when Digiscoping and Digibinning) or when I want my scope or binoculars trained at a particular area for long periods. A good example is for astronomy, which also makes it possible to share your views with others, something that is MUCH harder with a monopod.
Key Considerations When Buying
Just as when choosing a standard tripod for use with your binoculars or spotting scope, look for the same features:
- Weight and Size: Ensure the tripod is lightweight and compact if you plan to travel.
- Load Capacity: Match the tripod’s load capacity to the weight of your camera, spotting scope, or binoculars.
- Build Quality: Aluminum models are sturdy and affordable, while carbon fiber options are lighter and more durable but pricier.
Where to Find the Current Promotions
Retailers like B&H, Adorama, and Amazon often have excellent Black Friday discounts on convertible tripods. Look for deals on trusted brands like Benro, Bresser, Gitzo, Manfrotto, Vanguard, and Sirui. For links to all these and the others that I have so far discovered, check out the BBR Black Friday Tripod Deals Page.
Vanguard VEO 2 S 235CBQS Carbon Fiber Tripod with BH-50 Ball Head
Save $100.00 Price $229.99, now $129.99
A good quality, lightweight and versatile support system, the Vanguard VEO 2 S 235CBQS Carbon Fiber Tripod, paired with the BH-50 Ball Head is designed for both portability and adaptability.
It has 5-section legs, equipped with twist locks, which extend to a maximum height of 57.1 inches when the center column is fully deployed, and to 47.5 inches without it. The legs offer independent spreading with three adjustable angles, allowing the tripod to reach a low height of just 7 inches for ground-level shots. When folded, the tripod compacts to 15.75 inches, making it easy to transport.
Monopod Conversion: This tripod transforms into a monopod by removing one of its legs, providing added flexibility for fast-paced situations like some birding, sports, aeroplane or even wildlife observation or photography, be that with your camera or digiscoping with your spotting scope.
Weighing just 2.8 pounds, it includes rubber feet for stability on uneven surfaces and interchangeable short spikes for soft terrain. The included BH-50 ball head allows for smooth adjustments with a -90° to +40° lateral tilt, 90° vertical tilt, and full 360° rotation. Supporting up to 13.2 pounds, the ball head is Arca-compatible and comes with two QS-64 quick-release plates for swift camera attachment.
Fotopro X-GO Plus Carbon Fiber Tripod & Monopod Kit
Save $120.00: Price $259.00 now $139.00
With carbon fiber legs, the X-GO Plus Tripod Kit with FPH-52Q Ball Head (Arca-Type 52Q Ball Head with Plate) from Fotopro is a lightweight, versatile support system designed for photographers, but is also a good option for binocular and spotting scope users seeking both portability and performance at a great price.
Constructed with 4-section carbon fiber legs, it features a twist-lock mechanism that allows quick adjustments, extending to a maximum height of 51.5 inches with the rapid center column fully raised. The tripod’s legs can splay out completely, enabling a minimum height of 9.8 inches, and their variable angles make it adaptable to uneven surfaces.
The included FPH-52Q ball head offers precise control with two separate adjustment knobs: one for 360° panning and another for ball positioning, including a 90° tilt. A built-in bubble level ensures you can maintain a perfectly level horizon.
Monopod Conversion: One of the legs is detachable, converting the tripod into a monopod for scenarios where a tripod isn’t practical. Additionally, the legs feature a reverse-folding design for compact storage and easy transport, making this kit ideal for travel and on-the-go observation.
Benro MeFOTO RoadTrip Classic Series 1 Tripod with Monopod & Ball Head Kit
Save $70.00: Was $209.95, now $139.95
Constructed from durable aluminum alloy, the MeFOTO RoadTrip Classic Series 1 Tripod & Monopod Kit from Benro offers a good balance between price, size weight, giveing you a lot of versitility be that with the tripod or when converting a leg into a monopod.
This compact tripod extends to a maximum height of 61.6 inches and supports gear weighing up to 17.6 pounds. For easy transport and storage, it collapses down to just 15.4 inches.
Uniquely designed as a two-in-one support system, one of the tripod legs can be removed and attached to the center column, transforming into a full-featured monopod with a height of 63.9 inches. The tripod’s legs offer independent spread with two locking angle positions for added flexibility on uneven terrain. A spring-loaded ballast hook on the bottom of the center column provides extra stability by allowing you to hang additional weight.
The included Q12 triple-action ball head features independent head and pan locks, a 360° panning index, and a built-in bubble level for precise adjustments. The Arca-type-compatible quick release plate with a 1/4″-20 camera screw ensures fast and secure mounting. This kit also includes a durable carrying case with a shoulder strap, making it an excellent choice for both travel and studio use.
K&F Concept D225C2 Carbon Fiber Tripod with Arca-Type Ball Head and Monopod Conversion
Save $30.00 Price $129.99 $99.99
This is a budget friendly and lightweight as well as versatile option ideal for use from a static location or on the go.
With a load capacity of 17.6 pounds (8kg), it accommodates just about any binocular or spotting scope setup (as well as any photography gear). Its maximum height of 55.5″ provides ample elevation for various setups, while the reverse-folding leg design collapses to just 15.7″, ensuring easy portability for travel or storage.
The tripod’s legs feature independent spread adjustments with three locking angles, allowing for flexibility in different scenarios.
Monopod Conversion: One of the legs is removable and converts into a 59.1″-tall monopod with a padded grip, making it a compact and practical alternative where a full tripod might be cumbersome.
The rapid-lock center column includes a spring-loaded ballast hook for enhanced stability, offering reliable performance across diverse environments.
Tripod with Monopod Bundle Deals
Another option is to get both, now obviously this would usually be the most expensive solution. However, now and again you find a really good bundle deal, just like these I have unearthed for this Black Friday:
Gitzo GT2545T Series 2 Tripod & GM2542 Monopod (Special 50th Anniversary Kit)
Save $350: Price $949.95 now $599.95
Gitzo’s exclusive B&H 50th Anniversary Special Kit pairs two top-tier products: the GT2545T Series 2 Traveler Tripod and the GM2542 Series 2 Carbon Fiber Monopod. Designed for versatility, the lightweight tripod excels in portability and stability for landscapes and studio shots, while the monopod offers a quick, compact solution for dynamic environments like wildlife and sports photography.
Created to celebrate B&H Photo’s 50 years of excellence, this special edition kit symbolizes the shared commitment to quality and innovation. Perfect for photographers who demand flexibility and performance, this kit embodies Gitzo’s hallmark craftsmanship and durability.
More Related Black Friday Savings
For more of these Tripod-to-Monopod Black Friday Deals and other related gear, check out the following pages on BBR:
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