Experience with Capture clip on backpack straps?

I'm looking at options for trekking with a DSLR. Currently, I attach a toploader bag to the shoulder straps of my backpack with Op/Tech uniloop connectors. I find this to be versatile, as I can disconnect the bag and use it with a normal strap if I just want to take the small bag. It also protects the camera from unexpected impacts and weather. A disadvantage is that the bag can obscure the view of my feet when walking/climbing.

Another option is to attach a Capture clip to a backpack strap. This would remove the visual obstacle from being in a direct line with my feet, and leave the camera more quickly accessible. The camera would, of course, be less protected.

I'm interested to hear from others who have tried this. In particular, is the connection of the clip to the strap difficult? I have read that the thickness of a backpack strap can be a problem with the attachment mechanism on the capture clip.

dodgyexposure wrote in post #16305174
I'm looking at options for trekking with a DSLR. Currently, I attach a toploader bag to the shoulder straps of my backpack with Op/Tech uniloop connectors. I find this to be versatile, as I can disconnect the bag and use it with a normal strap if I just want to take the small bag. It also protects the camera from unexpected impacts and weather. A disadvantage is that the bag can obscure the view of my feet when walking/climbing.

Another option is to attach a Capture clip to a backpack strap. This would remove the visual obstacle from being in a direct line with my feet, and leave the camera more quickly accessible. The camera would, of course, be less protected.

I'm interested to hear from others who have tried this. In particular, is the connection of the clip to the strap difficult? I have read that the thickness of a backpack strap can be a problem with the attachment mechanism on the capture clip.

I can only be of some help as I have not used the capture clip system, but I have a DIY system that I made at work on our 3D printer, that uses the quick connect plate for my tripod (its a sunpak tripod from Costco), I did not want to have to change plates while out and about.

What I can help with is opinions on hanging from the backpack strap. After a full day of hiking you will feel lop sided when you remove the camera, while in Glacier National Park this summer I had days I used one combo and days I would carry two combos, although 2 was heavier at the end of the day when I removed my pack and gear I felt better. It is very nice for quick access however having it exposed is also a pain if your going through dens foliage.

There were many times I took the camera/s off my pack and stored them inside when I new I just needed to huff it to the top or bottom of the trail.

I plan to pick up a top loader to try out soon, as I think I will like the added protection, but I am also worried about the view impediment that comes with that set up.

I use the capture for backpacking (well now a days I use it on all my bags but got it for the purpose of backpacking). If you want to have quick access to your camera during foul weather then it's not really an option. If it's storming my camera is in a dry bag in my pack. I don't find that I need any time of protection when the weather is fine because if where the Camera is at is running into things (rocks, trees, ect) then I have bigger problems at the moment as climbing is not a normal task on my backpacking trips

What the capture clip excels at is light weight and fast access. It's much lighter then a bag (ounces=pounds) and requires only the press of a button to unclip)

The CC can attach to thick pack straps, it just takes time as it compresses the padding. The old style thumb screws are tough on the fingers but the new ones look better.

The CC is not perfect but I personally love it and that is coming from someone who used believe in chest packs for backpacking.

Thanks, Gremlin. Can you give me an idea of the dimensions (width, depth) of the straps?

When you say "it just takes time" are you talking about having to spend time getting the clip onto the strap in the first place? Implying that it can be difficult? Or do you mean can take time to tighten the clip once it is on the strap, because of the compression?

dodgyexposure wrote in post #16307804
Thanks, Gremlin. Can you give me an idea of the dimensions (width, depth) of the straps?

When you say "it just takes time" are you talking about having to spend time getting the clip onto the strap in the first place? Implying that it can be difficult? Or do you mean can take time to tighten the clip once it is on the strap, because of the compression?

Sorry I do not have that pack any more (old Kelty Coyote) since trying to go ultra light. But I can tell you that the old version of the CC (I don't have a new one to measure) will fit a strap approximately 63mm wide and 15mm thick (that is uncompressed).

I mean it just takes time due to compression. As you tighten it down the padding compresses. Just slowly alternate between the two screws until the padding will not compress any more and the CC is as tight as it can be. Also when I say "it takes time" I'm talking a minute or two, it's not like it's an hour long process

With the type of pack I use now a days it just takes a couple seconds to switch it from one pack/bag to another (I use it on my messenger bag now as well....it acts as a third hand to make lens changes on the fly even easier).