Really Right Stuff MC-34 MK II carbon monopod

Really Right Stuff MC-34 MK II carbon monopod: when stability can be lightweight

The Really Right Stuff MC-34 MK II is a Series 3 carbon monopod, built for situations where you need to react quickly but still want a steady image. It’s a classic monopod, just done the RRS way: very rigid, cleanly finished, and pleasantly compact. Including hardware it weighs around 0.667 kg, yet it supports up to 23 kg. It’s that combination you only really appreciate when a heavy telephoto is at your eye for longer and your arms slowly start to give out.

We see the MC-34 MK II especially in use for travel photography, telephoto work, and sports photography. Not because it wants to be “for everything”, but because that’s exactly where it saves time. Set up the monopod, adjust the height, move on. Done.

4 sections, anti-rotation, and locks you can control individually

You get four carbon leg sections, each with anti-rotation, so that nothing twists against each other when extending and you don’t have to readjust. Each section can be loosened and tightened individually; that may sound trivial, but in everyday use it’s worth its weight in gold, because you can really fine-tune the length exactly as you need it in the moment.

When it comes to extended length, the MC-34 MK II is flexible: depending on how you measure and on your setup, the maximum is roughly between 1.61 m and 1.70 m. And yes, that small range is normal, because in practice monopods are often “measured” together with head, foot position, and stance.

23 kg load capacity at 0.667 kg own weight, it just feels right on the go

23 kg maximum load isn’t just a number on paper. The MC-34 MK II remains stable even when you’re running a large telephoto or a heavy setup, and it doesn’t feel top-heavy or spongy. At the same time, at 0.667 kg it’s light enough that you won’t constantly curse it when traveling. You’re more likely to take it along, and that’s exactly the point.

Neoprene grip and rotating hand strap for a secure hold, even when things get hectic

The grip features a grippy neoprene sleeve that feels comfortable in the hand, especially in the cold or when you’re working for longer periods. On top of that there’s a wide, freely rotating hand strap. It supports, it secures, and it makes handling more relaxed because you don’t have to hold the monopod in a constant “death grip”. You notice that immediately when panning on the sidelines or when changing positions quickly.

Foot, interchangeable feet, and ground contact that doesn’t act up

At the bottom there’s a large teardrop-shaped rubber foot with ball-like behavior that maintains solid ground contact even at steep angles. This keeps the monopod controllable even if you’re not standing perfectly upright. And if you’re dealing with different surfaces—snow, scree, soft ground—the MC-34 MK II is compatible with all RRS interchangeable feet. Optional choices include, for example, the Rock Claw or a spike foot, depending on what you have in mind.

Made in USA, Type III black anodized and built for long-term use

The MC-34 MK II is manufactured in the USA and finished with Type III hard black anodizing. That’s not just about looks, but above all about resistance to wear in tough use. The carbon sections are made with the same technology that makes the RRS Versa tripods so light and torsionally stiff. In practice this means: less vibration, more directness in operation.

With MH-01 or MH-02 monopod head it becomes an ultra-mobile heavy-duty setup

If you combine the MC-34 MK II with the RRS MH-01 high-capacity tilt head or the MH-02, you get an ultra-mobile heavy-duty support that handles very “smoothly”. Especially in telephoto and sports photography, this is one of those combinations you use once and are then reluctant to give up again because it’s so straightforward.

Dimensions and real-world use: tall enough, small enough, without the drama

Maximum height is 170.8 cm, minimum height 549 mm. Combined with the good balance between working height when extended and compact packed size, the MC-34 MK II fits into many setups, from travel luggage to sports bags. It’s not a monopod that slows you down. More one that quietly tags along until you need it.