Tripod Reviews

3 Legged Thing just introduced their 2023 lineup of monopods, and Shutterbug had a chance to evaluate the model of our choice several weeks in advance. Here's why the 3 Legged Thing "Taylor 2.0" works for us.

If you doubt for a moment that you need a monopod, read this story Shutterbug published last year: Why You Need A Monopod. If you're still unconvinced after that, think back to that time you were stuck in the back of a crowd and wished you had a way to raise your camera above the heads of the 6-foot, 9-inch people in front of you. That's only one of the many reasons you need a monopod. Of course, the main reason is to get sharper photos.

Overview
Advocates of monopods and tripods that we are, we were pleased when 3 Legged Thing offered us an early opportunity to preview and evaluate the model of our choice from their new lineup prior to introduction. We chose "Taylor 2.0," the very affordable, travel-friendly magnesium alloy monopod in the entry-level range that was named in honor of the late Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins. That's not the reason why, of coruse.

The other new models are in the premium range and feature carbon fiber construction.

"Alana" is a travel-friendly 5-section unit that stretches to 62.3 inches, and "Lance" is a super-tall 4-section monopod that reaches over 79 inches fully extended. Alana was named after skateboarder Alana Smith, the youngest person to ever earn an X Games medal. Lance was named for former Bones Brigade skateboarder Lance Mountain.

Specifications Comparison Matrix

All three models are available alone or in a kit with the 3-legged Docz foot stabilizer that can double as a table top tripod. Also, all three are offered in 3LT's relatively new, rich matte-black Darkness coloration; Taylor 2.0 also comes in Metallic Blue, and Alana in Metallic Slate Gray. Yes, Lance, this means you are in Darkness only.

We typically do not put product model names in quotation marks, but 3LT is not a typical organization. They describe themselves this way: "Headquartered in a converted chicken shed (The Chicken Shed) on Kinsbourne Farm, in Stagsden, Bedfordshire, 3 Legged Thing is a small, British company of passionate people, creating and innovating camera support systems for photographers and videographers, and has a sibling brand, Toxic, that creates innovative bags for all people.”

3LT's product-naming scheme is so refreshingly creative and unique, we put the names in quotes up to this point to head off potential confusion among the unfamiliar. Check 3LT's website if you're still slightly puzzled.

Taylor 2.0 Key Features
Travel Ready: Just 17.4 inches (44.1cm) folded, fits inside carry-on luggage
Light Weight: Weighs under 1.5 pounds (677g)
Tall: 62.2 inches (1.58m) or 64.2 inches (1.63m) with optional Docz
Durable & Sturdy: Supports nearly 50X its weight, 66 pounds (30kg)
Versatile: Compatible with 3LT's Docz 3-legged foot stabilizer
Flexible Usage: Can be used as microphone or camera boom
Comfortable: Extra-large handle is triangle-etched for a firm grip
Surefooted: Accepts several foot options (spikes, etc.)
Includes: Rotating wrist strap
Doubly Affordable: Just $89.99 alone or $139.99 with the $59.99 Docz

In the Field
Taylor 2.0 is light and easy to carry—that's very important to everyone—but still sturdy enough to use with confidence, and that's even more important. It supports up to 66 pounds (30kg) which is about the weight of an average nine-year-old male child in the US if I'm reading the CDC's charts correctly. Yet Taylor 2.0 weighs less than 1.5 pounds.

I lashed it to the bottom of my WotanCraft Pilot 7 shoulder bag and it was not cumbersome at all. Unlike when I carry a travel tripod with the legs extended to shooting height, I did not have to worry about bludgeoning someone when I negotiated human traffic at a busy local wildlife center.

The grip on Taylor 2.0 is extra long and nicely knurled, so it's easy to hang onto. Combined with the wide wrist strap, it was a snap to maintain control while using and when transporting.

I found it easy to loosen the large twist locks and extend Taylor 2.0 into position, and equally easy to lock everything tight and secure. There is nothing worse than to have one section come loose and slip down suddenly—and that didn't happen to me even once.

The rubber foot included with Taylor 2.0 is suitable for most surfaces, including hardwood floors, carpets and miscellaneous outdoor areas, but as you'll read momentarily, there are other options for special circumstances.

Docz is available separately or in a kit with any of the three new monopods. It has three collapsible legs and provides sturdy, 3-point stabilization when attached to the bottom of Taylor 2.0. Mainly I used Docz to add more rigidity and to help me maintain proper vertical orientation. Docz makes it easier to keep the camera in the same space between shots. Although you obviously have to be careful and use common sense, it's possible to balance a lightweight camera on the Taylor 2.0 + Docz combo and let go. I'm not recommending that, please understand; I'm simply pointing out its stability.

I didn't use Docz as often as I thought I might because it adds more than a pound of additional weight to the setup. That said, there were several times when I was glad I'd brought Docz along in my gadget bag. Docz can also be used as a table top or ground-level tripod.

In addition to the Docz 3-legged foot stabilizer, there are several other foot options. 3LT offers Heelz (spikes) which are very useful when working on turf or bare ground, plus Stilettoz (long spikes), Clawz (ice grips) and Vanz (dual ball/spikes). Simply unscrew the included rubber foot and replace it with the accessory. The Clawz proved to be a blessing following the recent record rainfall in my area. Note that the optional feet are sold only in sets of three—which is no burden if you also own a 3LT tripod or compatible brand that has a standard 1/4-20 or 3/8-16 screw at the leg bottom.

Worth mentioning, Taylor 2.0 has a 3/8-16 screw at the top to accommodate a ball head or other camera holder. It features a clever spring-loaded bushing that slips down out of the way if you need to attach a head accessory that uses the smaller 1/4-20 fitting, or directly onto the camera or lens.

Conclusion
I need a monopod and you do too. Taylor 2.0 offers an overabundance of features at a pecuniary-favorable price. If you shoot any video, buy the kit which includes the Docz foot stabilizer. 3 Legged Thing has been around for a long time and has earned a leadership position through high quality, innovative design and sensible prices.

If every ounce of weight is critical to you, opt for carbon fiber Alana. You'll save about 11 ounces (.03kg) but the cost is $50 (67%) higher. For my needs (and budget) Taylor 2.0 is the most rational choice. Or the buy the Taylor 2.0 kit that includes the Docz foot stabilizer and still costs less than a naked Alana.

Lance is the same price as Alana and extends to a whopping 79.52 inches. Lance features four leg sections and is made of carbon fiber. When connected to Docz it reaches 6.8 feet (81.5 inches, 2.07 meters). I can't imagine needing that much stretch unless I planned to also use it to coax wayward felines down from treetops.

Price & Availability
Taylor 2.0 and his kin can be purchased directly from 3 Legged Thing or from a local 3LT dealer. To find an authorized dealer near you, click here. Price for Taylor 2.0 is $89.99 alone or $139.99 for the kit which includes the Docz 3-legged stabilizer (Docz normally costs $59.99 by itself). Alana and Lance can be purchased alone or as a kit as well. Either monopod alone costs $149.99, and the kits will run you $199.99, representing a $10 savings.

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