Tripod or monopod?

[CastleRocker]

I'm looking for some opinions and advice from all you photo-folks out there.  I'm leaning toward a monopod, but that's just because I use one when I'm shooting a rifle. 

I can see a disadvantage in that it won't hold a camera up by itself if I'm going to take an artsy-fartsy shot of a waterfall or something else with a long exposure. 

Which brand is a good one, (that won't break the bank...I'm been looking, and WOW they are definately proud of some of them!)  Any and all opinions are greatly appreciated.

[MikeWalking]

For a Camera I'd definetly go Tripod, especially if you're going to use a big zoom. I bought a Sunco(?) for about 30$ I like it a lot but wish I had bought a taller one. This raises to about 3 feet. Gotta use it sitting. I wouldn't bother with too many bells & whistles, like Ball joints etc...you can do with out'em just fine.

It's really nice for my 10x50 binos too...

[jackelope]

I have a manfrotto tripod and a bogan head...probably about $200 total. It works great but it's heavier and bigger than I wish it was...it will go to 6' high or so. I also have a smaller slik sport tripod that I use for my spotter and it's good but I have to be careful it doesn't tip forward. With a big lense you may have the same issue. You can always hang a weight off of the pod to eliminate this I guess.

Lightweight=carbon=big bucks...gitzo.

[Wazukie]

I have one similer to this one:
 Flashpoint Tripods and heads are pretty nice for the money.  Alot cheaper than other carbonfiber but just as sturdy. CHeck them out at: http://www.adorama.com/Als/SearchPage/flashpointTripods/?SearchInfo=flashpoint&Id=1010&Count=10