Looking for a backpack to take hiking

[shikhan]

Hi Guys,
I just purchased my gear (XSi, 10-22mm EF-S, 50mm 1.8 mkII) along with a Domke F-5 shoulder bag in the last year. While I like the F-5 for its accessibility, it really doesn't work when I go out hiking, so I'm on the hunt for a new bag. I'm only doing <10 mile hikes right now, so I don't need a real backpack, just something comfortable and secure.

I'd like to find a bag that has a sternum/chest strap and perhaps a decent waist belt. I need to have easy access to the XSi with attached lens. In terms of camera gear, it needs to have space for my current gear, as if it has straps to attach a tripod to, that would be great. If not, my silk came with a cheap carry bag and I can deal with that. A place to slip my camel pak into would also be nice, but is not nessicary.

I would also like to have some space left to stuff a extra layer or two into.

So far, I've found the Lowepro Fastpack series and Tamrac speedpack systems.

For the lowepro, I like the size of the 250, but it doesn't have any sternum strap. The 350 does, but it's camera portion of the bag is far larger than I need.

The Tamrac also looks nice, but doesn't have any sternum strap either.

What other bags might fit my bill?

[kingdaddy]

This may be too big but it will do everything you ask, they also make smaller models.

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=834717

[Tsmith]

Not sure what kinda hiking your into but myself I gave up trying to find a camera designed pack that was comfortable and offered good features. I concluded that pretty much no camera pack within a reasonable price range would be better than a pack designed for hiking and comfort. That lead me to the Gregory Z30 day pack. What I have is an order Tenba shoulder bag with strap removed shoved in the bottom to hold camera gear. That leaves room for rain suit, light weight fleece jacket, food items and such. The camera itself, when not in use easily fits into the top of pack. I don't have one but one of the Neoprene covers would provide some added support. Outside the pack has straps that a tripod easily cinches up with plus two side pockets for water bottles. This pack also has the air suspension harness for support, so the load isn't pulling down on your shoulders. I can wear this pack all day with around 22 pounds loaded and never get fatigued on the trails.

[hybridbanana]

I ordered one of these off ebay and always stick my camera in my regular backpack when I hike. Its a lot easier cause I can pack anything in my bag, such as extra clothing, food, and water.

http://i50.tinypic.com/acct29.jpg

[gpeet]

check out Clik Elite

[jcothron]

make sure you take a look at F-Stops products. I did a review on the Satori as well. For actual hiking it's the best method I've used, including Lowepro and using a regular backpack. I primarily hike and shoot, so I use it frequently.

[-EOS-]

check out Clik Elite

+1 for Clik Elite

[LQQKQIK]

Just got a Clik Elite Sport Compact, that size will be great for the equipment you listed.

[DarthSparky]

Lowepro Vertex. Comes in three sizes (I have the middle one, the 200AW). Very comfortable, can hold a ton of gear, quality workmanship.

[gpeet]

Just got a Clik Elite Sport Compact, that size will be great for the equipment you listed.I'm torn between getting the compact or the probody. I want to put a 50d with a grip in it so I think I will need the probody, do you think? Also how much stuff can you fit up top?

[Eric]

F-Stop gear. Check them out. I have the Tilopa and its great for hiking.

[gpeet]

F-Stop gear. Check them out. I have the Tilopa and its great for hiking.
Tilopa is nice but a bit excessive for what they are looking for

[Muteki]

I love the Lowepro Flipside series. You don't have a lot of big heavy lenses, so the Flipside 200 or 300 will be fine for your needs.

[JohnJ80]

The best packs for outdoor photography - where you are actually involved in the activity instead of just carting your stuff there are the bags from F-stop Gear. The Tilopa is the mid range bag. There is a new bag (about 28l) coming out shortly called the Loka. The Satori is huge.

http://www.fstopgear.com.

Most camera backpacks are ridiculously heavy and have crummy harnesses and especially crummy waist belts.

The guys at F-stop Gear are "adventure shooters" - skiers, mountain biker, climbing photographers. It makes a big difference.

J.

[Butch Cassidy]

I just bought the vertex 200, it is a great size and bag. I misbought and ordered 2 by mistake, I will make someone a deal on one of them, just got them Friday. PM me if interested.

[jcothron]

The best packs for outdoor photography - where you are actually involved in the activity instead of just carting your stuff there are the bags from F-stop Gear. The Tilopa is the mid range bag. There is a new bag (about 28l) coming out shortly called the Loka. The Satori is huge.

http://www.fstopgear.com.

Most camera backpacks are ridiculously heavy and have crummy harnesses and especially crummy waist belts.

The guys at F-stop Gear are "adventure shooters" - skiers, mountain biker, climbing photographers. It makes a big difference.

J.

I have the Satori and love it. It is pretty big but nothing like an expedition pack. I just got in from hiking with it today...I had a huge amount of gear packed in it today..and could have carried more.

[JohnJ80]

I dug up a link on their Loka and ordered it sight unseen. That would be a perfect day pack. I might sell my Tilop and then get a Satori and go with the two of them.

J.

[jcothron]

I dug up a link on their Loka and ordered it sight unseen. That would be a perfect day pack. I might sell my Tilop and then get a Satori and go with the two of them.

J.

One of the things I've considered is getting a smaller ICU, which would leave me much more room for extras. I don't mind the size of the pack at all, but there are times when I could carry less equipment so a smaller ICU might make some sense.

They're making some changes that I'm waiting to see before I do anything however..I think this spring sometime.

[JohnJ80]

Yes. I agree. I thought for when I travel via air (vacation) that a small ICU in the Satori would give me one pack with which to travel. For example, when we go sailing down south, I could put my camera stuff in the ICU and clothes etc. above it.

I forget - is the Satori carryon size?

J>

[jcothron]

Yes. I agree. I thought for when I travel via air (vacation) that a small ICU in the Satori would give me one pack with which to travel. For example, when we go sailing down south, I could put my camera stuff in the ICU and clothes etc. above it.

I forget - is the Satori carryon size?

J>

I don't think it's listed that way, but I have a feeling you may get away with it on major flights. I haven't tried, but I would be tempted to.

[argyle]

The best packs for outdoor photography - where you are actually involved in the activity instead of just carting your stuff there are the bags from F-stop Gear. The Tilopa is the mid range bag. There is a new bag (about 28l) coming out shortly called the Loka. The Satori is huge.

http://www.fstopgear.com.

Most camera backpacks are ridiculously heavy and have crummy harnesses and especially crummy waist belts.

The guys at F-stop Gear are "adventure shooters" - skiers, mountain biker, climbing photographers. It makes a big difference.

J.

For all you guys with F-Stop gear, one question. Understanding that the ICU is for camera gear, will the amount of "extras" that I may need to carry for medium to long day hikes (rain suit, fleece layer, tool kit, first aid kit, food/snacks, filters, etc) be limited by the size of the ICU? From what I can tell from the F-Stop web site, there appears to be limited space above the ICU for packing these types of items. Do I have this right, or am I going wrong somewhere?

I'm looking to possibly try something different, but until I find a pack that's more functional than my Lowepro Rover (two large separate compartments with plenty of space), I'll stick with what I have rather than play the "pack roulette" game. If the Tilopa can meet my needs, I just may give it a try.

[hi-landr]

For long day hikes and lots of gear I have the Satori and am about to order the large icu, as I find the xl icu does not leave enough room for other gear.
I think the size of the satori is perfect and their harness system is second to none. Great bags just need to make sure you order it with the slightly smaller ICU. Good luck.

[jcothron]

For all you guys with F-Stop gear, one question. Understanding that the ICU is for camera gear, will the amount of "extras" that I may need to carry for medium to long day hikes (rain suit, fleece layer, tool kit, first aid kit, food/snacks, filters, etc) be limited by the size of the ICU? From what I can tell from the F-Stop web site, there appears to be limited space above the ICU for packing these types of items. Do I have this right, or am I going wrong somewhere?

I'm looking to possibly try something different, but until I find a pack that's more functional than my Lowepro Rover (two large separate compartments with plenty of space), I'll stick with what I have rather than play the "pack roulette" game. If the Tilopa can meet my needs, I just may give it a try.

Hey Mike.

I have the xlarge ICU which was a new size last year: It's a very large ICU, about 4-5" taller than the next size smaller. If I were to change over to a large ICU instead, I would have about 8" of head room above the ICU for storage of extras. As it is, I'm able to carry most of the items you listed already.

If you read my review you know I have some issues regarding the ICU design itself, but it's still a very good unit and just about all the issues I had with it are being changed with the upcoming release.

I'm not familiar with the Rover in particular, but I'm very familiar with backpacking in general...the Satori is a very good pack, and having the option of using a smaller ICU (if I wanted) is just an advantage not necessarily a need.

[JohnJ80]

For all you guys with F-Stop gear, one question. Understanding that the ICU is for camera gear, will the amount of "extras" that I may need to carry for medium to long day hikes (rain suit, fleece layer, tool kit, first aid kit, food/snacks, filters, etc) be limited by the size of the ICU? From what I can tell from the F-Stop web site, there appears to be limited space above the ICU for packing these types of items. Do I have this right, or am I going wrong somewhere?

I'm looking to possibly try something different, but until I find a pack that's more functional than my Lowepro Rover (two large separate compartments with plenty of space), I'll stick with what I have rather than play the "pack roulette" game. If the Tilopa can meet my needs, I just may give it a try.

Looking at my Tilopa with it's Large ICU, I think there is about 8" to the top of the ICU from the top of the main compartment zipper. There is a very large pocket on the top (lid of the TIlopa) which is were I put most of my photo accessories. Then, with the two zippered compartments on the front you could put a bunch of stuff too.

If that wasn't enough, then you could add on a MOLLE compatible accessory pack and put some more stuff in it.

I think from what you describe, a rainsuit (I'm thinking compact here - shell) and a fleece would probably fit in the top of the Tilopa.

So, I think it would work well. If you don't fill up the ICU - which is pretty big - you could put ALL your photo stuff in there. In mine I have a 1Dmk3, 70-200 f/4 IS, 24-105, gripped 40D body, two flashes and a bunch of accessories. I could pack it tighter, but I don't.

What you can also do, that I like, is to loosen the waist belt, take your arms out of the harness straps, and then swivel the pack around to the front. Using a knee for support, you can get stuff out of the pack without having to take it off or lay it down.

You can order our the TIlopa and I think they have a 45 day no questions asked money back return period.

I can't imagine it would be smaller than your Rover.

J.

[Fstop-Ian]

For all you guys with F-Stop gear, one question. Understanding that the ICU is for camera gear, will the amount of "extras" that I may need to carry for medium to long day hikes (rain suit, fleece layer, tool kit, first aid kit, food/snacks, filters, etc) be limited by the size of the ICU? From what I can tell from the F-Stop web site, there appears to be limited space above the ICU for packing these types of items. Do I have this right, or am I going wrong somewhere?



Hi Argyle you are correct you free up more space with the Large ICU in a Satori. We are designing the packs so you can use any ICU with any pack we make.

All (S,M,L,XL) ICU's will share the same width and similar depth. This will allow your pack to be used in many different ways for different needs. The Medium should be out in June and the small should be just a bit after.

If you would like more info in regards to your personal set up please email me and let me know what your packing and I will let you know what is best for your load.

Also you can order any ICU with either pack.


ian@fstopgear.com

[82NoMe]

I use a Tilopa with either the XL or L ICU. The F-Stop bag supplements my other bags for long hikes.

[shikhan]

I just bought the vertex 200, it is a great size and bag. I misbought and ordered 2 by mistake, I will make someone a deal on one of them, just got them Friday. PM me if interested.

Butch - How easy is it to access the camera in the vertex 200? Judging from the images I can see, tt seems that you'd have to stop, take off the bag and open up a good portion of it before you were able to get to the camera. Is this the case or is it easier than it looks?

[shikhan]

Just got a Clik Elite Sport Compact, that size will be great for the equipment you listed.

LQQKQIK, any chance you can do a quick review/take some pictures of the bag with gear in it?

[argyle]

Looking at my Tilopa with it's Large ICU, I think there is about 8" to the top of the ICU from the top of the main compartment zipper. There is a very large pocket on the top (lid of the TIlopa) which is were I put most of my photo accessories. Then, with the two zippered compartments on the front you could put a bunch of stuff too.

If that wasn't enough, then you could add on a MOLLE compatible accessory pack and put some more stuff in it.

I think from what you describe, a rainsuit (I'm thinking compact here - shell) and a fleece would probably fit in the top of the Tilopa.

So, I think it would work well. If you don't fill up the ICU - which is pretty big - you could put ALL your photo stuff in there. In mine I have a 1Dmk3, 70-200 f/4 IS, 24-105, gripped 40D body, two flashes and a bunch of accessories. I could pack it tighter, but I don't.

What you can also do, that I like, is to loosen the waist belt, take your arms out of the harness straps, and then swivel the pack around to the front. Using a knee for support, you can get stuff out of the pack without having to take it off or lay it down.

You can order our the TIlopa and I think they have a 45 day no questions asked money back return period.

I can't imagine it would be smaller than your Rover.

J.

Hi Argyle you are correct you free up more space with the Large ICU in a Satori. We are designing the packs so you can use any ICU with any pack we make.

All (S,M,L,XL) ICU's will share the same width and similar depth. This will allow your pack to be used in many different ways for different needs. The Medium should be out in June and the small should be just a bit after.

If you would like more info in regards to your personal set up please email me and let me know what your packing and I will let you know what is best for your load.

Also you can order any ICU with either pack.


ian@fstopgear.com


Thanks for clearing things up. I'll give the Tilopa some more thought, especially with the option of having additional ICU's to choose from. One advantage to the Lowepro Rover is that its relatively light when empty (about three pounds). The harness system is 'decent', but could be better (F-Stop advantage). I also use the waterproof Dryzone Rover, which weighs in about the same as the Tilopa (between 4-5 pounds), and has the same harness as the Rover. Neither of my Lowepro packs has an internal frame, unfortunately. However, they do have sufficient depth that allows me to stow a 70-200/2.8L and/or the 100-400L vertically, thereby minimizing the lens' footprint and tying up only a single lens pocket for each.

I'm giving the Tilopa some serious thought...especially with the additional ICU's that will be available in the near future. It looks like those options will be a huge benefit and increase the functionality since the pack can be customized to suit the type of shoot and meet specific needs.

[sheawyatt]

If you read my review you know I have some issues regarding the ICU design itself, but it's still a very good unit and just about all the issues I had with it are being changed with the upcoming release.



Are there new bags coming out or just the new ICU's like as mentioned above? I'm looking to replace my Lowepro Primus AW with something that has better support and more space for camera gear – the Tilopa fits the bill but if there is something coming out I can hold out a bit longer.

[jcothron]

Are there new bags coming out or just the new ICU's like as mentioned above? I'm looking to replace my Lowepro Primus AW with something that has better support and more space for camera gear – the Tilopa fits the bill but if there is something coming out I can hold out a bit longer.

If memory serves me correctly in my conversations with Drew at F-Stop, there will be some changes to the bags. I can't tell you if the Tilopa is/was one of them...although I believe they'll be making minor design changes to all of them.

Potentially the material currently on the two side pockets at the bottom is nylon pack material with an elastic gather. They "may" be going to something more elastic overall so the pocket lays better. Personally I'm happy with them as is, I use the right side as a tripod leg holder (I prefer side carried).

Ian at F-Stop has a reply in this thread I think, it might be a good idea to email them if you have specific questions. I've found them to be very responsive.

[82NoMe]

When I emailed F-Stop I did not get a reply. I did get my question answered quickly from a member here.

[jcothron]

Hmmm.. let me try and see what happens. I've actually received unsolicited calls from them regarding my thoughts on the bag after owning it so my experience has been different.

[jcothron]

How about that, I finally made it to a thousand.

[plasticmotif]

How about that, I finally made it to a thousand.

Heh. You were ahead of me not too long ago.

Question for the boards:
I recently got a Crumpler 7mdh and am thinking of selling my Kata 3n1-30 for a smaller bag more suited for rough terain hiking.

I'm needing a bag that will hold my 24-70, 580ex, flash bracket, 100 macro and my 5D.....or 5D 24-70, 70-200 and a 50 prime.

Do you think the Flipside 200 could swing it? It seems to be about the smallest bag with a tripod holder on the outside.

[dandig]

Are there new bags coming out or just the new ICU's like as mentioned above? I'm looking to replace my Lowepro Primus AW with something that has better support and more space for camera gear – the Tilopa fits the bill but if there is something coming out I can hold out a bit longer.

The new version of the Tilopa is a long way off, rough estimate would be next autumn or winter but even that could change. Currently the guys are putting a lot of work into another bag that is smaller than the Tilopa that should be out sometime in the spring/summer. If you are looking to pick one up then I would just go ahead and get the current one.

[c2thew]

Heh. You were ahead of me not too long ago.

Question for the boards:
I recently got a Crumpler 7mdh and am thinking of selling my Kata 3n1-30 for a smaller bag more suited for rough terain hiking.

I'm needing a bag that will hold my 24-70, 580ex, flash bracket, 100 macro and my 5D.....or 5D 24-70, 70-200 and a 50 prime.

Do you think the Flipside 200 could swing it? It seems to be about the smallest bag with a tripod holder on the outside.

flipside 300 is the minimum size you should considering with that equipment.

[gloosle]

Dunno if its already mentioned but clik elite makes a killer photo pack for hiking.

www.clikelite.com

[82NoMe]

When I emailed F-Stop I did not get a reply. I did get my question answered quickly from a member here.

Thanks dandig. I took your advice and got the Tilopa with both ICU's.

[dandig]

no problem at all. you'll love that bag. and having both ICUs is a great way to do it. Personally i used the XL one in it when i fly so i can get the most camera gear in it. Then when i'm skiing (which is what i shoot) i use the L sized one for the most part.

[keitaro]

I am looking at getting to Tilopa. Of the three colours, which one is by far the more popular?

[dandig]

I believe that the army green was the most popular, and I could be wrong here, but i think they might be out of that color right now.

Personally I think the black is a really smart looking bag. That's what i'm using right now.

[JohnJ80]

I have the cranberry one and think it's great. Doesn't look like a camera pack at all.

J.

[sheawyatt]

The new version of the Tilopa is a long way off, rough estimate would be next autumn or winter but even that could change. Currently the guys are putting a lot of work into another bag that is smaller than the Tilopa that should be out sometime in the spring/summer. If you are looking to pick one up then I would just go ahead and get the current one.

Yeah, I thought they updated the Tilopa and Sartori not too long ago, so I did a double-take when I read that they were being updated again.

It looks fantastic, regardless of any small changes that might come down the line.


Anyone know how the Tilopa tripod holder works for something as large as a Gitzo GT3540LS? I haven't seen any images of the pack with a tripod on it.

[keitaro]

I believe that the army green was the most popular, and I could be wrong here, but i think they might be out of that color right now.

Personally I think the black is a really smart looking bag. That's what i'm using right now.


I have the cranberry one and think it's great. Doesn't look like a camera pack at all.

J.

I am trying to decide between the foliage and cranberry one. I just don't know which one i want now. I've been using black bags for a long time now, and thinking to switch it up.

I hope thats not the case with the Foliage being out of stock.. but I haven't decided on what colour to get.

[jcothron]

I got the red because I'd never had anything but a black bag.. and really like it. Now I don't OWN a black bag at all unless you count the Pelican.

[keitaro]

I got the red because I'd never had anything but a black bag.. and really like it. Now I don't OWN a black bag at all unless you count the Pelican.

Your situation was the same as what I am currently experiencing. Thanks for the insight!

[82NoMe]

I went with the black bag as this is my hiking bag and it gets thrown down in the dirt a lot.

[dandig]

sheawyatt (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/member.php?u=44876) you can see how i carry a tripod on mine if you go to my site.

http://dancarrphotography.com/blog/2009/10/14/f-stop-satori-camera-pack/

[JohnJ80]

I got the red because I'd never had anything but a black bag.. and really like it. Now I don't OWN a black bag at all unless you count the Pelican.

+1

I was just tired of Black. Besides that, it's a lot easier to see stuff in the red bag in low light conditions. Almost all of my other camera stuff is black - filter cases, small storage pouches, etc.. When you put that all in other black bags as I have been doing for years, it sort of disappears into a large black blob. Not so much in the red.

J.

[jcothron]

+1

I was just tired of Black. Besides that, it's a lot easier to see stuff in the red bag in low light conditions. Almost all of my other camera stuff is black - filter cases, small storage pouches, etc.. When you put that all in other black bags as I have been doing for years, it sort of disappears into a large black blob. Not so much in the red.

J.

Exactly...which reminds me, I think F-stop is changing the color of the ICU interior (or maybe just the dividers) to something lighter so you can see things better inside it.

[JohnJ80]

Cool. I think that is a great idea. Isn't it Kata or something that does it in yellow? maybe not that bright, but that's the right idea.

I'm looking forward to getting a Loka (ordered one already sight unseen). The two of them should make for a great combination. Then I get rid of some of my other ones.

J.

[keitaro]

I just placed my order in for a Tilopa in Cranberry :D

[JohnJ80]

cool. welcome to the group.

love to hear what you think of it when you get it.

J.

[keitaro]

cool. welcome to the group.

love to hear what you think of it when you get it.

J.

thanks!

It's going to be a long wait.. St. Louis to Vancouver, Canada :(

[Fstop-Ian]

Exactly...which reminds me, I think F-stop is changing the color of the ICU interior (or maybe just the dividers) to something lighter so you can see things better inside it.

Yes we are. They will have a 'cool' grey interior. That includes the walls and dividers.

... Personally a big fan of the Foilage green bag and matching webbing. :)

[canonloader]

Dunno if its already mentioned but clik elite makes a killer photo pack for hiking.

www.clikelite.com (http://www.clikelite.com)
Do you own one? I am looking at the large chest bag to hold my 1D and Bigma while riding my bike through the wetlands around town. Do you know if this will be comfortable for something like that? I need quick access to the camera and don't want to be taking a backpack on and off to get to the camera in a hurry. After looking at the information, this doesn't really look big enough for the camera and lens?

[JohnJ80]

The best bags for that sort of thing are the think tank photo ones. they are the most trim of any that I have seen and they are set up for being carried on your chest. besides that the "snout" of the bag can telescope to handle a wide range of lens lengths.

Actually the best thing for this is the Cotton Carrier.

J.

[canonloader]

Actually the best thing for this is the Cotton Carrier.
John, thanks for that link. Man, this is exactly what I need. I have put together an electic bike over the winter and have just got back from my 4th test ride to and through our wetlands park here this morning. I had no camera with me of course, but I came upon two almost tame Sandhill Cranes that just ignored me like they were use to people. They were maybe 20 yards from me. I hate missed chances. :)

Do you have one of these? I watched his first video and he kept saying how it did not drag on your neck. That's a pretty tough claim to live up to. Just wondering how a heavy camera will feel after an hour? LOL Not sure what the 1D Mk3 weighs, but the Bigma is right at 4 pounds. ;)

[JohnJ80]

I have two of them - the old version and the new version that has the strap to further stabilize a camera with a long lens.

They work just as advertised. Watch the videos on his website.

I've used mine with the 1dmk3 and the 300 f/4L. Probably about the same. You really don't notice the weight the way it is carried. I've worn it all day and it is way more comfortable than a camera on a strap.

For the 1D or cameras with grips, get the angled slugs instead of the straight ones.

J.

[canonloader]

Yeah, I use to own the 300/4, it's maybe a little shorter than the Bigma and slimmer and lighter, but after looking at the videos, I think this will be exactly what I was looking for. Much faster than a bag. I'll be ordering one soon. So the new one comes with that strap to go over the lens? That and the tether straps will be very safe on the bike.

[JohnJ80]

Yep, would work great. I've biked with it before and skied with it too. Best for both of those.

If you have a camera strap that has tails that connect to a backpack harness then you can use these in lieu of a the tethers from CC - that's what I do and they work great. The strap that secures the lens is really not needed unless you are really bouncing around. It is a 1" wide strap that goes horizontally across the lens and velcros in place further stabilizing the lens.

These things are great. I'm kind of surprised no one thought of this before. Here's a whole long thread on them:

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=726545

Lots of pictures of it in use, questions, answers etc...

J.

[canonloader]

A great thread. Sounds like there were some problems getting them at first. So to be clear, the strap that goes over the lens comes with the vest? I doubt I will be getting the holster part though, since I have only one camera. :)

[JohnJ80]

A great thread. Sounds like there were some problems getting them at first. So to be clear, the strap that goes over the lens comes with the vest? I doubt I will be getting the holster part though, since I have only one camera. :)

Yes. Watch the video and you can see exactly how it is used.

J.

[canonloader]

Yeah, I can see it in the video, that's why I am asking about it so much. But on the order page, with pics of the chest vest (http://buy.cottoncarrier.com/product_p/667cva.htm), I don't see it, if you see what I mean. :mrgreen:

[JohnJ80]

Yeah, I can see it in the video, that's why I am asking about it so much. But on the order page, with pics of the chest vest (http://buy.cottoncarrier.com/product_p/667cva.htm), I don't see it, if you see what I mean. :mrgreen:

I see your point.

I'm sure that is what they are shipping. I'd just email them, they are great about getting back to you very quickly. I know they had some picture issue on the website when I ordered my upgraded version (the reason I now have two).

J.

[canonloader]

I'm not looking to buy the full kit, with the holster, so I wanted to check on that strap, that it's not an optional item, like the tethers seem to be. I've found that if I don't ask about the obvious, I end up have to order again and waiting a second time. :lol:

[JohnJ80]

It's not optional, it's sewn on to the lower belt on one side, and sticky velcro on the other. It runs right on/through the b-card holder.

J.

[canonloader]

Great to hear, and thanks for putting up with my questions. :)

I can't wait to try it. Did you say you used yours with a Bigmos, extended? I think I'd prefer mine retracted and the lock on. The thing is entirely too long as it is. :)

[JohnJ80]

No - not the bigma, I use mine with a 300mm, a 300mm with at 1.4TC, a 70-200, and smaller. All have been used with the 1dmk3 with both the straight and the (preferred) angled knobs. I've also used a 40D ungripped on the side holster and on the chest harness. Works fine both ways. Finally, I mount the knob on a A-S compatible QR plate so that I only need to keep it on the camera when I'm using the CC - that works great too. For that, I use the tiny knob clamp that came with my Markins Q3T.

I've also used it under a backpack, under a jacket, and in conjunction with my TTP Changeup used as a chest/front carry lens storage. I've done both while alpine skiing multiple times, hiking up ski hills (many times), and once while bike riding (mtn bike). In each case it worked great - much better than a camera strap.

In all cases, the camera body is the issue, not so much the lens.

J.