Review: Domke F-3x

Does anyone have any experience with this bag (Domke F-3x) and the Crumpler 6MDH? I'd love to see some comparison because I need a shoulder bag soon!

I am stuck between this back and the f-3xb - ballistic nylon model.

The nylon doesn't seem as it would wear out as fast as canvas and hold up in the important parts better.

Any thoughts?

The canvas doesn't wear out, believe me. I have an almost 30 year old F2; it's faded compared to contemporary ones, but still solid.

deming wrote in post #7751221
I am stuck between this back and the f-3xb - ballistic nylon model.

The nylon doesn't seem as it would wear out as fast as canvas and hold up in the important parts better.

Any thoughts?

Mine have had heavy use for a couple of years (nowhere near as much as Jon!) and all they show for it is a pleasant slightly worn look. I have faith that they'll probably outlast my lenses and definitely my camera bodies.

Does the canvas become less water resistant over time? Moreso than the ballistic model?

Not so's you'd notice. Nylon bags rely solely on a urethane lining for water-resistance. This will abrade over time. The canvas of the Domkes is treated for water-repellancy (in the fiber), and the cotton can swell when wet, blocking drops of moisture from getting through. So I'd rate the canvas better over time.

Well, sounds like the f-3x is better on the outside for weather. How much different are the insides of the bags?

Just ordered an F-3x (canvas).

I have a fishing trip on Friday so I got 2 day shipping, I will be using the bag to see how water resistant it is when I throw it with all my gear in the lake.

I'll let you guys know.

deming wrote in post #7775698
Just ordered an F-3x (canvas).

I have a fishing trip on Friday so I got 2 day shipping, I will be using the bag to see how water resistant it is when I throw it with all my gear in the lake.

I'll let you guys know.

Resistant and Proof are two similar words with very different meanings! Good luck!

ANGUS wrote in post #7776864
Resistant and Proof are two similar words with very different meanings! Good luck!

Ok, then how about if I attach the bag with all my gear to the end of the line on heavy duty rod and reel, cast it out - and before it hits the water - start reeling like hell. That way my lawyers will have a defense against Tiffen when I sue them for false claims and advertisement.

deming wrote in post #7779278
Ok, then how about if I attach the bag with all my gear to the end of the line on heavy duty rod and reel, cast it out - and before it hits the water - start reeling like hell. That way my lawyers will have a defense against Tiffen when I sue them for false claims and advertisement.

Maybe have a look at the other reviews in my sig... something like a Pelican might more float your boat if that's what you do to your gear

Interesting. Those bags seem that they would stay pretty dry.

If only I could find one resistant to highly corrosive mucous...

deming wrote in post #7779340
Interesting. Those bags seem that they would stay pretty dry.

If only I could find one resistant to highly corrosive mucous...

Maybe call Pelican and ask, they seem to be pretty resistant to most things

Photo of my 70-200 2.8 IS in a F-3x (sold the sand colour for black):

Jim G wrote in post #8249729
Photo of my 70-200 2.8 IS in a F-3x (sold the sand colour for black):

Fits pretty well - is snug in the lens pocket without the hood. No chance of the hood fitting without some sort of modification.

My finding as well with the 70-200 in an F-3x. Leaving the body on the lens makes this a no go for this combo and the F-3x. When using a 70-200 I move to the F2.