Manfrotto 234RC Monopod Head Quick Release - Replaces 3229

I recently bought this Monopod head that goes with the Manfrotto 694 Monopod. Amazon listed this item as an accessory to the Monopod. Both of them are made for each other as they fit well as one piece. The 234RC provides a quick release just by turning the thumb handle that lets the top plate popped out. Once the plate is in place, a side pin provides additional safety to prevent the thumb handle from turning. That's definitely a nice feature in this head. Great buy so far!

This product does what it supposed to. Easy to install and use. Smooth movement which helps when using a video camera.

I searched through hundreds of Monopod Heads on dozens of sites, for the one that would suit my needs at a reasonable price. I have a QSX VersiPod that I use as a "walking stick" that has pop-out tripod legs at the bottom. I wander the rivers and swamps of SC for good shots, and I need the versatility of both tools in one. This head is perfect for my Nikon D80 with a VR-18-200 lens, and it is built like a tank. I have already built up my confidence in the double latching quick release feature after a couple of walks in the swamp. This is just a great Monopod head that can take some punishment and perform when needed.

Before buying the Manfrotto 234RC monopod head, I had a chance to try the older 3229. The older model had a four-winged nob to adjust the tilt axis of the head that made it difficult to tighten the screw enough to lock the head in place. Once locked in place, the 3229 was prone to sticking so that loosening it again was also difficult. The new 234RC has overcome these difficulties by replacing the nob with a two-winged nob which is much easier to grasp. It also seems that they have used a different material to secure the tilt mechanism which doesn't stick in place. The net result is a basic tilt head that performs flawlessly and is capable of handing a large lens (I have a Sigma 150-500mm) safely and securely.

I like it with my monopod since my monopod has a retractable screw mount, but my tripod doesn't. How irritating.
I'm glad I figured it out before a wedding I'm shooting tomorrow.
Off to Samys to spend another arm and a leg for another head.