Anybody Using the POTN Op-Tech Strap ?

[Beski]

I am looking to upgrade my strap since I am carrying around the 100-400 on my 40D a little more now. I have looked at the Op-Tech Straps, and there seems to be good reviews & feedback on them.

Some questions:

(1) When you rest a heavy lens down, does this strap actaully "stretch" and get longer like a rubber band ??

(2) I can't tell from the picture, but does the strap have an "off-set" feature where it's shapped so it sits lower on the back of your neck ?

(3) Does the Patented Weight Reduction System in the product description actually work...do you notice a difference in comfort and weight:
The patented weight reduction system makes the PRO STRAP absolutely essential for prolonged use of a heavy camera or portable power pack. Equipment instantly feels 50% lighter and 100% more comfortable when using a PRO STRAP . The weight is evenly dispersed while the strap functions as a shock absorber to eliminate neck and shoulder fatigue.

(4) Are you using the "Pro Loop" or the "3/8" Connection ? I have read here that the camera sits too high up on your chest, do you find this to be the case ?

(5) Although the colors seem nice, do most people just get "Black" to be less noticeable in a crowd ?

(6) Are there any other similar straps that I should consider ? (Both Op-Tech or Other Brands)

Here is the Link:
http://www.procameragear.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/30/products_id/141

Thanks,
Tom

[Jon]

1) Yes. The neoprene stretches. The black band (which you'll notice on the coloured straps) also stretches, although less, but there's some slack in it so initially the neoprene is all that stretches.
2) Yes, it does.
3) Comfort, yes. I don't think they have an anti-gravity device built in so my 1D3/100-400 is still as heavy, just the weight load is spread out more on the stretchable, contoured POTN strap than on the rigid Canon one.
4) I'm using the 3/8" web, because I also use other parts of the Op/Tech system and this gives me more flexibility.
5) Mostly black, for me. I just got 2 coloured ones to better distinguish cameras and other gear in a hurry.
6) Can't think of any I'd view as alternates to the POTN Op/Tech in normal use.

[ben_r_]

1. Yes the neoprene does give a little, but not a really noticeable length increase.
2. Um, well it doesnt ride up the back of my neck, so Im going togo with yes.
3. Yes it does make my gear feel a LOT lighter than any of the other straps I have owned.
4. I use both actually. The Pro Loop strap makes me nervous sometimes, especially with my heavier lenses. The little loops are so skinny and they rub against the thin metal strap mounts on the body. I have never read of them breaking on anyone, but mine certainly have a crease worn into them. Thats why I use the 3/8" with the heavier lenses sometimes.
5. I dont buy any color but black for anything... Well other than white L lenses :)
6. I have tried the Canon and Lowepro and so far the Op/Tech is by far my favorite.

[microman23]

I used for one day and sold. Its not long enough for me.

[_aravena]

Love mine, it's red. WHen I get a second body it'll probably be black or blue. Two cameras two colors but I choose what I like. Red seems to go with the black of the camera and hopefully red rings someday. Really does make equipment feel lighter though.

It's long enough, but I'm thinking of getting extensions just to see. What's $8 or whatever for some extensions?

[foty89]

Many, many, many here have the POTN strap. It is a great improvement over the stock strap, as has been posted by others. I have the black strap myself, seems most go that route, but the colors are fine too. For the price, it is hard to find a better option.

[Woolburr]

I have a POTN strap on all of my bodies...they work great!

[alduin]

I used the Canon strap that came with my XTi twice before giving it the boot in favor of a black POTN strap and haven't looked back. I would prefer maybe another inch or two of length, but that's my only gripe and it's an extremely minor one at that.

[Beski]

I would prefer maybe another inch or two of length
Yep, I know the feeling...that's the Story of my Life !!:o;)


Thanks to everybody for the replies....(Jon and Ben_r_ thanks for answering each question by Number 1-6 !!)

Looks like it's time to order a new POTN strap in Black !!

[picturecrazy]

I like it, but the only thing I don't like is that it slips off the shoulder noticeably easier than the stock canon strap. If you are using it as a neck strap then no issue. But it a two body deal you have to pay a little more attention.

[Jon]

I carry a 1" Domke strap modded with the Op/Tech Uni-Loop (#8) connectors in place of Domke's webbing. If I need to secure a camera under my vest's epaulets, I swap that in for the POTN one.

[r.morales]

i have the potn black strap . It is better than the canon strap for weight support , but it will walk off shoulder .
When not expecting a shot - it's over neck-under arm and still walks .
I added a seat belt cover for walking dirt roads for bugs and flowers - camera around neck .
There are some good guitar straps that support the weight better - I have not found one I liked enough to buy tho .

[Bill Pham]

i have the potn strap also. red and black. yes it stretch a little with my 1D. i love them, much better than the canon one.

Bill

[kenwood33]

The POTN strap is great - best accessory investment i have made.

[jrsforums]

I used for one day and sold. Its not long enough for me.

Optech has a "Uni Adaptor Loop" (#9 here: http://www.optechusa.com/product/detail/?PRODUCT_ID=48&PRODUCT_SUB_ID= ) which can be used to extend any of the system connectors (just throw away the extra loop at the end)

I am 6'1" and like my camera at my hip. Pro Loop strap with these extra connectors easily gets it there.