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Your cart is empty.4.5 out of 5 stars
- #56 in Monopods
IFOOTAGE Cobra 3 A180T
Andrew Wehrli
Reviewed in the United States on February 3, 2025
I like this monopod a lot, so far I've used it without issue and every part feels quality. It's worth noting that it doesn't feel light weight, although I don't have any other monopods to compare it to.
Unsorted Space
Reviewed in the United States on February 3, 2025
This monopod is really good, i can have my A7V with big lens and v mount stand its own and never fall for days.
Ratty
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 24, 2024
I added the one photo they wouldn't show in the marketing, this monopod, on a firm, stable surface, will support a camera (if it isn't blowing a gale out!) with the feet in their shallowest angle. Not that I'd recommend leaving your expensive camera unattended, but it is possible.I added a photo taken today (27/9/24) at Penllargare waterfall (Wales) assisted by the IFOOTAGE Cobra 3 Strike Monopod as exposure was 1/20 second to gain some movement in the water. Beautiful!Backstory: I recently bought a travel monopod (that doubles as a walking stick beautifully when hiking!), really like it, but wondered if one with tripod feet might be more stable.Well, the IFOOTAGE Cobra 3 Strike Monopod has offered that opportunity, and yes, I should have bout one with tripod feet!At 1.6 Kg it isn't really a heavyweight, around the same weight as a good travel tripod, adding one's favourite head to it will increase the weight a little, but not much.As a walking stick (I know... But why not?) is is strong and rigid enough, with a screw on plastic 'foot' that protects the base, although particularly abrasive ground might wear it rapidly.As a monopod is where it really shines though, with one minor niggle (next paragraph), as, with a quick press of the release on the base, the monopod can be angled to take that Macro shot (or video if one is so inclined), quickly & easily adjusted for height, with a stable base provided by the fold out feet. (I didn't get any 'show off' shots this morning, the camera was stable, but the wind said "No!"). A second press on the release will lock the monopod back upright.One minor detail that is easily overlooked, and will take some 'habit training'...The height is adjusted by squeezing a lever on the chunky handgrip, so being a little enthusiastic when grabbing the monopod to move it will also allow it to reach full height as soon as lift is applied - which may be somewhat frustrating until habit is learned (I cussed only a little this morning!) and the handle grabbed gently, which doesn't then activate the lever.The top plate, which holds one's choice of fitting, is easily removed by pulling the top orange colloured collar down and lifting it out, insertion is as simple as pushing it back in until a very reassuring 'click' is heard, and your 'gear' is safely locked in place.The whole centre coloumn can be removed and the top plate mounted on the 'foot' section, giving a very handy low platform for, in my case Macro shooting, exciting new angles to shoot footage.Minor niggle aside, averything about the IFOOTAGE Cobra 3 Strike Monopod shouts "quality!", the ease of adjustment, sturdy tubing of the centre column and even the foot assembly using all alloy construction.I'm impressed, which as a bit of a cynic when it comes to expensive photography accessories should be taken as great praise. It does a job very well, and feels built to last... Has to be 5 stars as nothing is actually wrong about it!
Tom
Reviewed in Canada on September 13, 2024
Pros:- Solid build quality while still being light weight and easy to bring around- Very quick and easy to make adjustments all the way through. I particularly like the foot pedal adjustment for the base- Can be used with just the base or as a full monopod- Love the versatility of this monopod. Great for longer lenses on the goCons:- None reallyOverall:I've been so happy with this monopod. I recently got Fujifilm's large telephoto lens and was looking for something to pair with it, since hand holding it was becoming a pain. I do have a tripod, but find it quite cumbersome to set up and use with my lens. This has been the perfect compromise.This is very well made and feels solid all the way through, while still maintaining a light weight design that makes it easy to transport. The tripod style feet are quick to deploy and the angle can easily be adjusted with the foot pedal. In practice this works really well together. I love using this to help with panning shots when on the track and offers enough additional stability to let me shoot wildlife as well with my long lens. I actually don't do any videography really but I've still found this monopod to be a great addition to my kit. I use it more than my tripod now! 100% would recommend.
Leo
Reviewed in Canada on March 7, 2024
I was looking for a better way to shoot broll and I did some research on doing so using a monopod. I have an Innorel monopod that has a mini tripod on the bottom like the Cobra 3 but it's not very stable when deployed. Plus when I don't want to use the tripod base on that one I was not able to convert it as fast as the Cobra 3 with its quick-release mechanism.After watching many YouTube videos doing reviews and demos on the Cobra 3 I decided to get it. The other contender was from Manfrotto, but it was way more expensive and the base tripod legs were not as long or as stable by comparison.I love the foot pedal lever on the C180F-P, and how it locks back to center when you are done freely articulating it. This is something I liked, as you don't have to keep kneeling every time to adjust it as you do with the ball head base types out there to make it level once you are done.Overall very happy with the quality and workmanship of the Cobra 3. I had to reach out to customer service early on due to an issue with the quick-release plate threads, and the communication was great and they eventually sorted it out for me.Very much recommend this monopod for its features and construction.
Raja
Reviewed in the United States on December 30, 2024
Edit: Got a replacement base and it works great! Seems to be a common issue.WOW. This is my first iFootage product, I've been eyeing it and my mom finally got it for me for Christmas. It is extremely good quality, and it VERY securely supports the weight of my Sony A7iii at a decent height. I really needed this for a shoot I'm doing in a few days, but there's just one thing that makes it unusable for me and I'll probably have to get a different version or buy something else instead. For whatever reason the foot pedal mechanism does not lock. It was locked when I got it and I tested it fine, but after unlocking it it will not go back to center. I imagine I am either doing something wrong or my unit is defective, but regardless I won't be able to use it for my big shoot unfortunately. Glad I tested it before committing to purchasing the K5S fluid head as well.
bposner images
Reviewed in the United States on December 27, 2024
I usually hand hold my long lenses for bird shots, but as I age my arms need a break, so this monopod with its easy vertical lift and lowering system with one hand is perfect. The swivel base and quick release plate makes is a great system. I can hand hold, reconnect to the monopod when arm is tired and either keep shooting using it, or quickly release if I need to hand hold.
chumpden
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on December 2, 2024
This monopod has a modular construction that allows it to be configured in a number of ways. The main components lock together with solid spring-loaded latches operated by knurled aluminium collars with an atractive red metallic anodised finish. Other parts are plastic or aluminium and sheet steel with a satin black finish, and there are strategically placed rubber inserts and buffers for grip and cushioning. The quality of design and construction are impressive. All of the actions were stiff to begin with.The mini tripod base has three legs that will lock into one of three positions, and a ball-joint swivel that can be locked vertically using the chromed foot pedal. The telescopic column has a clever internal gearing such that both sections are linked and extend and retract in unison. A large plastic button is used to lock the column in any position, and multiple columns can be connected for greater height (only one is included in this kit). No camera quick-release plate is included, but a threaded mount is, and this has another clever device to offer two sizes (1/4" and 3/8") on a single centre. The larger sleeve pushes down out of the way when the inner one is used.Although it's chiefly designed for cameras and other photographic equipment, I found this to be a useful base for a laser level. It is less stable than a full tripod, but more flexible, compact and portable. It can even be used as a walking stick!The monopod comes with a padded fabric carrying case and plenty of documentation and extra stickers, and seems to me to justify the £299 selling price. It was recently on offer, but is currently back at full price.
Jason Varone
Reviewed in the United States on November 14, 2024
Best purchase I've made. I love the cobra 3. Strudy enough for all most all situation light enough to not kill me on long hikes. Very solid and sturdy.
John Doranski
Reviewed in the United States on November 14, 2024
It is light weight, and taking off the base I can use as a walking cane while moving in the field. The sturdy base is great and can be used as a stand alone part with the camera attached.
BKNY1972
Reviewed in the United States on September 7, 2023
First off, the monopod works as advertised. It is solid, matches everything I have seen on YouTube and the description on the manufacturers website. It is a bit on the heavy side. Not that big of a con if you're only carrying the monopod.The feet are sturdy and I like the way they audibly lock into place. The pivot ball on the bottom allows for a nice range of movements and has decent friction adjustability so it's not super loose or hard locked in place. The quick release is something new for me. I really like the thought process that went into this, sometimes you need to do things quickly, and that qr will come in handy.Typically I shoot marching band photos for my son's high school band. I have been free handing for while, and I have worsening shoulder issues and this will help me with that.So now for the double stickers. This is how it came out of the box, I did call the manufacturer and confirmed it is indeed a Cobra 3. Why it shipped with double stickers is a mystery. I don't like shady nonsense when it comes to my hard earned money.
Neil Reid
Reviewed in Australia on July 21, 2023
My first monopod purchased because at 77 years of age with spinal fractures and becoming unsteady on my feet, I wanted something to support my camera and myself. I shoot birds predominantly, and there can be long periods of waiting for the shot. Holding the camera steady sometimes above head height becomes tiring and having the camera supported should make a difference.On unboxing, I was so impressed by the thought that has gone into the monopod. The carbon fibre moved smoothly extending or retracting. The clip locks are re-assuringly solid. The minipod feet settings were easy and the pedal locking foot operated control to allow rotation around the rotating ball head worked well. Rotating the camera on the monopod was smooth. The 1/4" and 3/8" screws being retractable enabling use with two mounts is genius. The quick release head allowed me to instantly whip the camera off the monopod to take a hand held shot, and because of the feet, the monopod stands in place meaning it doesn't need to be lain on the ground. Every about this monopod thing reeks of quality and learning from earlier models to further improve. The monopod is light. and I walked 6km through bushland on my first field trial without a problem. I already have a mini tripod, but the ability to remove the shaft and be left with a quality mini tripod using the lower section should be very useful. I have seen video of a large DSLR with telephoto lens being mounted on the mini section, with the photographer lying prone on the round to photograph water birds. Great resulting photos, but my days of lying flat on the ground for extended periods, and more importantly, being able to get up again, are long gone sadly.So confident am I of the stability of this monopod that I have shown my Canon 7D MkII camera with fully extended Canon 70-300mm lens sitting on the monopod. Not recommended outdoors, but does show how stable the feet are. Also note that this lens does not allow for a tripod collar. If it did, the balance would be even bettered as centred rather than off centre as shown.The carry bag is indicative of the thought that this company exemplifies. Great quality, adjustable shoulder strap, carry handles, but inside...a velcro strap to hold the monopod in place, a genius push out end to allow for a fluid head/ballhead fitting to go in the bag without removing, and a useful inner pocket.The company's after sale service is superb. I did lose the rubber foot that screws into the base of the tripod during my first outing. I take some responsibility for not checking, but felt it should not have been loose when shipped. I reached out to iFootage by email & the response was fast and helpful. They are replacing the part free of charge which is exemplary service. I also informed that although the quick release head works brilliantly for removal, I found it hard to re-attach the camera with the quick release head. They promptly sent a small video demonstrating correct technique which was helpful, and now with practice I have no complaint.This has been such a satisfying purchase. I am very satisfied with this monopod & it has already improved my bird photography by allowing longer periods in the field, with less fatigue, and a stable platform which has eliminated a degree of camera shake creating sharper photos.
Adam Talks Tech
Reviewed in the United States on November 1, 2023
I recently purchased the Ifootage Cobra 3 Carbon Fiber Monopod and have been putting it through its paces for various video projects. Overall, I'm quite pleased with its performance and build quality, though it's not without a few minor drawbacks. Here's a comprehensive review of this monopod.Lightweight and Quality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐One of the standout features of the Ifootage Cobra 3 Carbon Fiber Monopod is its lightweight design, which is especially noticeable when you opt not to use the feet. The monopod exudes a sense of quality that's impressive. It's worth noting that there are multiple versions available in both aluminum and carbon fiber, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.Pedal Base: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐The pedal base makes it easy to lock and unlock the column and to adjust the angle of your shot. You can also use it to get jib like shots and do smooth push in reveals.Height Range: ⭐⭐⭐The monopod's height range is decent, extending from 27.165 inches at its shortest to 71.26 inches at its tallest. While it offers flexibility, some users may find that it doesn't get as compact as they'd like, which could be an issue when traveling.Quick Release Mechanism: ⭐⭐⭐⭐The quick release system on this monopod is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it allows for quick adjustments to remove your camera or fluid head from the top and put it on the feet. At the same time it is hard to release one handed and you need to make sure you pull the column down all the way so it locks into place.Wrist Strap and Lock Under the Plate: ⭐⭐⭐The monopod comes with a wrist strap, which is a nice addition, but it could be a bit longer, especially if you plan to attach a video head on top. Additionally, a lock under the plate would have been a welcome feature to enhance stability during use.Cushioned Latches and Rubber Feet: ⭐⭐⭐⭐The cushioned latches on this monopod are impressive and easy to operate. It's also noteworthy that you can unscrew rubber pieces from the feet and attach them to the bottom for added grip. However, these rubber pieces have a tendency to get lost, so make sure to tighten them securely.Pedal Base and Standard Knob: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐The Ifootage Cobra 3 Carbon Fiber Monopod comes with two bases – a standard knob and a pedal base. The pedal base, in particular, is excellent for shooting on even terrains and when you need to maintain close control throughout your shoot. It has a built-in fluid system and a step-on lever, providing a smooth, almost fluid-like feel. One drawback, though, is that you can't lock the pedal base in orientations other than "up," though it offers an option to add friction.Built-in Tool and Case: ⭐⭐⭐⭐The inclusion of a built-in tool is a thoughtful touch, making on-the-fly adjustments more convenient. The monopod also comes with a case that can accommodate a video head, but it's a bit of a tight squeeze. A slightly longer case would have been ideal for smoother storage.Stability and Swivel: ⭐⭐⭐One area where the Ifootage Cobra 3 struggles is in managing side-to-side sway when you use the pedal base. It would have been great if there was a way to lock this movement and only allow tilting forward for unique shots.In conclusion, the Ifootage Cobra 3 Carbon Fiber Monopod is a sturdy, versatile tool for videographers. Its lightweight design, quick release mechanism, and choice of bases make it a strong contender for various shooting scenarios. While it has a few minor quirks and limitations, it's still a reliable addition to any videographer's toolkit.
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