Let's hear what you use? The good,the bad or whatever. I'm looking for some sticks and can't make up my mind between crossed sticks and a monopod. Seems to me crossed sticks would be a lot more steady than a mono but a mono can also be used as a walking stick.

Crossed sticks are much more steady than a monopod. Do they make a monpod for hiking that breaks down to 2 sticks?

Tripods are the most stable but can be a bit awkward. Two crossed sticks (bipod) work fine (for me anyway) and can be pushed together for easier transport and, I suppose, they could be used as a walking staff. I use a Stoney Point Pole Cat myself.

http://www.varmintal.com/abifu.htm I made a set for everyone in my camp. These are great and very inexpensive. I use mine all trhe time

I got a monopod from wal-mart,for 10 dollars.It adjust from about 1.5 feet to about 4.5 feet,works really
good for me anyway Rem. makes it.

I have two replacement fiberglass tent poles covered in duct tape and held together w/ the bungee cord that came with them. They are quiet, reliable, stable and fold to fit in my pack. I think they cost me $3.

Spud

That's what I use.

If you want a stable rest that can be used for a walking stick take a look at Bog Pod's. They areboth sturdy in build and function. They come with a carry case though could be used as a walking aide or straped to your pack.

X2 on the bog pod, and will convert to a spotting scope tripod as well.

I use Stoney Point Rapid sitting and kneeling bypod. Used this and works well up to 500yds. here what it looks like.
http://www.stoneypoint.com/products/bp_rapid_pivot_bp_sitng_knlng.html