The iFootage Cobra 3 Strike is the fastest monopod I’ve ever used. Having a one-touch pistol-grip release, you can change heights as fast as you can grab the monopod. I’m the owner of many many tripods: from travel monopods to hydraulic carbon fibre, there’s been promises in the past of “fastest” methods of raising and lowering a monopod, but this one actually delivers.
(Purchased via Kickstarter with my own money.)
Buy the iFootage Cobra 3 STRIKE at B&H
With One-touch height adjustment, one-click quick-release system and one-foot switch locking base, the Cobra 3 STRIKE from iFootage is the One monopod that is the best I’ve ever used (and I’ve used quite a few).
WHAT IS IT?
One-Touch height adjustment via this unassuming button on the iFootage Cobra 3 Strike
A monopod with a novel, one touch clutch system, making for very fast height adjustments.
WHO IS IT FOR?
The iFootage Cobra 3 Strike makes height adjustments unbelievable fast
all photographers and videographers who are in need of stabilizing their footage while taking the weight off their arms, shoulders and back in quickly changing environments.
Build Quality
The Pedal Base on the left, has longer feet and locks in vertical mode on the iFootage Cobra 3 Strike
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Strong, custom shaped aluminum sections
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One-touch pistol grip section is made of ergonomically shaped plastic with rubber bumpers
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next-gen one-click locking head and base – allows for quick removal of the central column, making ultra low shots, quick and painless.
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pedal activated vertical locking base with foot length inspiring confidence (longer than my v2 cobra 2 monopod feet)
Pros
The foot pedal in vertical locked mode on the iFootage Cobra 3 Strike
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Strong. The monopod is rated at 11lbs, but I’ve pushed down with considerably more force, and it’s rock solid and NOT going down. iFootage has so much faith in the Cobra 3 Strike that they suggests it should be used as a hiking stick.
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Incredibly Fast: Goldilocks pressure on the trigger makes height adjustment faster than any other monopod I’ve used
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Great Optional Komodo K5S Video Head: haven’t been a photographer and videographer for over 20 years, I’ve purchased my fair share of tripods, ball and video heads, and this is superior to any other video head I own even at twice the price (not a fair comparison to my Sachtler activ6 head which is better, but MUCH more expensive, bulky and heavy)
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Solid Footing: I like this latest generation of feet, which are longer and lock in the vertical orientation, inspiring confidence when leaving your camera for a second (though not recommended). I also love the foot switch, which toggles locking from upright to free to move.
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one-click quick release head/foot sections: Another nice upgrade from my older iFootage monopod is the upgraded head and foot quick releases. The new one-handed version is so superior to having to use two hands to mount each section that you really have to use it to realize the savings of time and frustration.
Cons & Considerations
The foot pedal in unlocked mode allowing for angled shooting on the iFootage Cobra 3 Strike
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As with all monopods, though it is strong enough to hold your camera without hands, you must be careful. And a monopod will not be as stable and sway-proof as a proper tripod.
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minimum length and weight. There are lighter and more compact versions, but none as fast in use. So if you’re traveling, you’ll have to carefully consider your options.
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aluminum vs Carbon fibre. As a working video professional, I’ve never shied away from the extra cost of carbon fibre to lighten my load and add rigidity. I asked iFootage about the possibility of a carbon fibre version. Still, according to my source, the extreme cost of making the custom shapes required for the Strike’s one-touch level adjustment is prohibitively expensive.
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Squeaks—I never noticed it in real-world use, but several users reported squeaking when adjusting the height. I can confirm mine squeaks, too, but strangely, I didn’t notice it when using it during a sensitive interview.
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I’ve noticed that if you grab the monopod by the exposed upper shaft, it can lengthen unintentionally even when not pressing the release. This isn’t a big deal; it’s just something to be aware of so you carry it by the knobby handles instead of the shaft.
The Competition
Monopod removed for Low-mode on the iFootage Cobra 3 Strike – perfect for tabletop too
I bought many carbon fibre and quick-twist monopods and even this hydraulic monopod in search of the fastest, most convenient one. Spoiler: It was beautiful, heavy, and unreliable, so I sold it. I believe it is (thankfully) no longer in production.
Tips & Tricks
iFootage Cobra 3 Strike at maximum height with load
Already own an older iFootage monopod and are thinking of upgrading? If the speed of use is essential to you, do it. And don’t think you’ve wasted money on your “old” monopod – if the base is compatible, you can use your older iFootage monopod as a lightweight extension, giving you even more reach.
The Bottom Line
The one-touch release button requires little pressure, making changing heights easy and fast on the iFootage Cobra 3 Strike
So what’s the bottom line?
I’ve purchased over 15 monopods in search of the perfect monopod, from innovative dual-grip extending to expensive hydraulic monopods from a big Hollywood brand. But none have delivered on the speed, ease of use, and reliability of the iFootage Cobra 3 Strike. Sure, it could be lighter and more compact, and maybe make my morning coffee, but for now, this is the fastest and best monopod for photographers and videographers alike. I highly recommended!
