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View Full Version : Review: Kata DR 461 - the Clown Car of Backpacks! (pics)


Kasrielle
27th of June 2009 (Sat), 20:27
I've had a number of backpacks for my kit, and each has served it's purpose. I recently ordered a Kata DR 467 to replace my Fastpack 250, and on a whim, put the Kata DR 461 Micro Rucksack into my cart as well. My plan was to stick what I could into it for an afternoon drive or walk.

I love my DR 467, and use it as my day pack going to work as it will fit my purse in the top compartment. But today I want to share the coolness that is the DR 461. I am amazed at what this little bag will hold!

Fist - it's small. Only 11 x 6.5 x 12.2".
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y216/mynameisxena/Kas%20Stuff/20090627001.jpg

But it's made with the tough stuff of all the Kata bags.
Here is the left side with a neoprene pocket.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y216/mynameisxena/Kas%20Stuff/20090627004.jpg

And the straps. Notice that this tiny bag has the same D rings on the straps as the bigger bags. It has a sternum strap, but no waist strap (cause it's way too short for a waist strap!)
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y216/mynameisxena/Kas%20Stuff/20090627005.jpg


The 461 uses the great zippers that all Kata bags use (cat hair not included!)
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y216/mynameisxena/Kas%20Stuff/20090627008.jpg

But the miracle is how much this bag holds!
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y216/mynameisxena/Kas%20Stuff/20090627010.jpg
Clockwise from left: 50D with 17-85 IS attached (no grip), 70-300 DO IS, hoods for 70-300 and 17-85, 50 1.8, Sigma 105 macro, Sigma 10-20 with hood. It looks like the 10-20 is sticking up really far, but it's just the angle. The lenses are up above the zipper, but the softness of the top allows them to fit just fine. The zippers aren't even tight. (The first few pics are with bag loaded - no pull or stretch on the zippers.)

When I move the DO a bit left and take out the hoods, my 430 speedlite fits where the hoods go. Or if I want hoods and flash, the flash can go in the top compartment.

Here is everything I have in the camera compartment ( the blower lays on top of the nifty fifty.)
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y216/mynameisxena/Kas%20Stuff/20090627012.jpg

:: in infomercial voice:: But there's more!
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y216/mynameisxena/Kas%20Stuff/20090627013.jpg
Here is the front section. My wired remote is in the mesh pocket, and 2 filters are in the bigger yellow pocket. The smaller pocket (usually for a cell phone) has my card wallet. Also notice the rain cover that Kata includes.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y216/mynameisxena/Kas%20Stuff/20090627015.jpg
A unique feature of the front pocket is that you can access it from the camera compartment or from the front - it has zippers on both sides.

I have a close up shot of the the carry handle if someone wants it. It's made of a tough rubbery material that is easy to grab.

There is no way to attach a tripod, but this isn't the type of bag that you would probably use if you were going hiking with your tripod. All in all it's a great little bag - and cheap! Right now it's on sale at B&H - $59.95 with a $15 dollar rebate. I got mine at Vistek.ca (since I'm Canadian) - $65.95 CA. At that price you really can't go wrong.

scorpio_e
28th of June 2009 (Sun), 10:00
Kata makes a nice bag. Thanks for the review

mufutau55
30th of July 2009 (Thu), 08:57
I think I like this bag (Kata DR 461) the cost is really good. But do you think it can be arranged that I can fit a Canon 70-200mm F/4L on one of the side..

Actuall I want the following equipment to fit in the bag:

Canon 50D with Tamron 17-50mm lens attached
Canon 70-200mm F/4L
Canon EF 50mm F/1.8
Tokina 12-24mm F/4

and Canon 580EX/II on the side pocket

Do you think those equipment will fit inside?
Thank you.

Mufutau

Kasrielle
31st of July 2009 (Fri), 13:33
I think I like this bag (Kata DR 461) the cost is really good. But do you think it can be arranged that I can fit a Canon 70-200mm F/4L on one of the side..

Actuall I want the following equipment to fit in the bag:

Canon 50D with Tamron 17-50mm lens attached
Canon 70-200mm F/4L
Canon EF 50mm F/1.8
Tokina 12-24mm F/4

and Canon 580EX/II on the side pocket

Do you think those equipment will fit inside?
Thank you.

Mufutau

Yes, I think the 70-200 f/4 will fit just fine. it's a bit smaller than the 2.8. If it takes the place of 2 of my lenses you won't have any problem.

The 580 will fit best without it's case - if you want to keep it in the case I think you'll need to put in in the front cover pocket. Your best bet is to take your gear with you to B&H and try it out - they are really great (from what I hear - I live far away and only get stuff from them online) and will let you experiment with the bags to make sure you are happy with the fit.

mufutau55
31st of July 2009 (Fri), 14:11
You got a PM on the update on the bag after returning from B&H store, this afternoon. Thanks.

Mufutau

Yes, I think the 70-200 f/4 will fit just fine. it's a bit smaller than the 2.8. If it takes the place of 2 of my lenses you won't have any problem.

The 580 will fit best without it's case - if you want to keep it in the case I think you'll need to put in in the front cover pocket. Your best bet is to take your gear with you to B&H and try it out - they are really great (from what I hear - I live far away and only get stuff from them online) and will let you experiment with the bags to make sure you are happy with the fit.