Domke F-3X, will it be big enough?

[DavidR]

After reading all the threads about Domke bags it looks like what I'm looking for in a bag. My local camera store doesn't carry the Domke line, so I need your help. Will the F-3X hold a gripped body with attached 24-70 or 135L with hood non-reversed, ready to shoot, along with a 35L and 17-40 or will the F-4AF be a better choice? I'd like to keep the bag as compact as possible but still fill my needs.

[DavidR]

Bump

[Jon]

I practically never use primes (the one I use most is the 300 f/2.8), but I stow a 1D3 with 24-70 and 70-200 2.8 IS in my F3x.

[jklewer]

With the hood non-reversed on either of those two lenses, you would have your camera in the bag lens down and I'm pretty sure it would be sticking up too far for MY comfort at least. The other two lenses would stack fine in one of the side inside "sleeves."

[DavidR]

Thanks for the comments, the 24-70 with hood measures 7 1/4" + body about 9 1/2" total. The 70-200 without the hood is about the same length as the 24-70 with hood on if that helps. Do you think the F-4AF could handle it being about 2" deeper. If not, can you recommend a bag?

[Jon]

Well, I stow the camera with 70-200 mounted, hood reversed, and the 24-70 in an F3x. But once I reach the scene the camera comes out and the lens hood goes on. I don't consider there's any value in keeping the hood deployed while I'm in transit, nor do I see any reason to have the camera in the bag while I'm expecting to shoot with it.

[DavidR]

I'm probably just being lazy, its the way I keep the body+lens in my backpack. When I'm out walking the streets, especially in some areas I've been, I like to keep the camera out of site between shots. Not having to deal with the lens cap and shade for each shot saves a lot of time.

Maybe the F-3X will work then, I could always exchange it if doesn't. Thanks for your help.