How to pack my Domke F-2

[Ursie]

I just recieved this and am hoping to pack all the gear in my gear list, plus various other bits and bobs. I was expecting something a little different than what I got. Can anyone share how they would pack the gear list that I have here?

[SuzyView]

This is usually when Jon comes in and tells us how to do it right, but I fear, he is reading the Lord Malone thread and trying to stay focused. :) ;)

The Domke bags are amazing. You'll love yours.

[sunbeast]

Try this site for some ideas.. http://www.cambags.com/canon/300d_10_20d/shoulder/domke_f2_desc.htm

I have an F2 and F1X. I only carry one body, although it will handle two, in the F2 with multiple lenses. The F1X handles two bodies and the kitchen sink easily. You can also look at some of the different optional inserts for the Domke's that may meet your specific configuration needs.

[Ursie]

OH, I just realized that my Gary Fong Lightsphere is not included in my gear list. I was hoping to include both the frosted and the clear one. the other thing was the hood for the 24-70 and the 70-200. I'm afraid I bought the wrong size.

[Ursie]

Has anyone modified the clasp closure. I found it rather cumbersome to open and close securly. The clasps are very stiff but perhaps with use will loosen up?

[slappy sam]

From what I've read you should throw the hoods on the lenses reversed. Past that, I can't help you.

[stefeb]

Don't have a F-2, but do have a F-1X, which is just a bit bigger then your bag. This is the gear I carry, and the position. Hope it helps you.

1. Canon 5D with grip and 17-40 attached with hood reversed. This is stored with lens facing down on the left side of the bag.
2. In the 4 section divider (located off middle right side) that came with the bag are:
a. 24-105 with hood reversed
b. 24-70 with hood reversed
c. 85mm with hood reversed

I moved the four section divider as close to the 5D as possible.

2. Canon 30D with grip and 100-400 attached with hood reversed.

The 30D with grip drop into the space (right side of bag) created by moving the four section divider close to the 5D. It is stored horizontally, with the 100-400 resting on top of the divider. The outer rim of the hood rests just inside the divider, in the section where the 85mm is, so nothing is touching the lens nor the hood. There is a bit of space between the 5D grip and the 100-400 hood, I plan on putting some sort of cushion in that space.

It's snug, but very workable.

The other items 580EX, rocket blower, are left side pocket. The two battery chargers are in the right side pocket. Flash cards in velco section of flap, and manual in the zippered section. Lens caps and filters are in the back zippered section.

There is lots of room still left in the rear outer compartment, and both side bags could hold more items.

Forgot the front pockets - WhiBal card, right front pocket. Left front pocket is empty.

[Ursie]

Thanks Steph, thats very helpful!

[Halliday]

I just got my F2 a few months back. I carry a gripless 10D, 16-35 2.8, 70-200 2.8, Hyperdrive, CF cards and 580EX flash in it. My hands carry the 20D w/ grip and 24-70 2.8. It's not a big bag, but I already have a large Tamrac for that.

[Jon]

i use the FA-230 3-compartment insert. That way your 70-200 goes horizontal (on or off the body), 30D with 24-70 in one end of the insert; 17-55 gets a compartment of the insert as well, 430EX in an end pocket. All hoods reversed.

Has anyone modified the clasp closure. I found it rather cumbersome to open and close securly. The clasps are very stiff but perhaps with use will loosen up?
No particular problem with mine, but I guess they'll loosen up over time. My F-3X is about my newest and it's still pretty easy to open. I've snapped a couple of mini-'biners on the clips if I've had the bag so full the clips wouldn't reach, though. I generally don't worry about closing the clips if I'm working from it though - only when in transit.

[gparvan]

F1-X configured with 4 pocket insert:
From left to right...:
3 inch gap between end wall and insert for Singh-Ray filters, holder, cable for flash.
Insert pocket 1: 70-200 2.8 hood reversed
Insert Pocket 2: Flash
Insert Pocket 3: 17-40 2.8 No hood & Extender 1.4
Insert Pocket 4: 90 degree eye piece & cables
Main compartment: DSLR with 50mm & hood attached, on its side with grip up. This allows for quick retrieval.
Side pockets: hoods, memory cards, battery, misc.
Large outer pocket: wool gloves, manual, AA batteries.

If you load it up it will be heavy and you might want to invest in a strap pad.
http://www.tiffen.com/displayproduct.html?tablename=domke&itemnum=725-310