Could have been a costly disaster: Something to watch-out for: I use a Kata 3n1 backpack for my kit and really like the bag BUT, I was swopping from my 100-400 lens back to the kit...

magnetoman Loc: Purbeck, Dorset, UK

Something to watch-out for: I use a Kata 3n1 backpack for my kit and really like the bag BUT, I was swopping from my 100-400 lens back to the kit lens one evening this week, having just taken one of the moon shots I posted on UH, and put the lens back in the bag via the side pocket as usual. I then lifted the bag from the bed and the lens crashed to the floor, having exited via the opposite side pocket!! All my fault but a nasty surprise. Fortunately the only damage was a chip to the UV protection filter I'd just screwed back in place - the filter was difficult to remove but once off a replacement screwed on fine, so no lasting damage and the lens operated perfectly. If I had been outside whilst changing I hate to think what might have happened. I guess I must have started to open the wrong side of the bag when taking the lens out and didn't zip up properly - maybe it's an 'age thing', but do be aware of the danger.

JR1 Loc: Tavistock, Devon, UK

Never bothers me as I have photoguard insurance

You don't list where you are

magnetoman Loc: Purbeck, Dorset, UK

I am insured but wonder what would happen to the premium after a claim. The post was just a friendly warning regarding the type of bag, I don't expect everyone to be concerned.
I'm an hour from you, a little further south.

JR1 wrote:

Never bothers me as I have photoguard insurance

You don't list where you are

mikemilton

Arrrgh... I've had cases with these types of issues. A good case is hard to get.

I just ordered one of these: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/134466492/rotation180-photo-backpack?ref=email

The big issue is to find a working bag (vs a carrying bag) The video at the link really shows the issue of trying to use a backpack as a working bag.

I use a toploader if only the camera an one lens is needed and an urban disguise bag if a couple of lenses are needed. These open on the top and can be left ajar so one can just lift the camera out and shoot.

The urban disguise also fits atop my roller and I'd recommend it (or a smaller one) to anybody. The smaller one also has a laptop slot.

http://www.thinktankphoto.com/products/urban-disguise-70-pro-v2.aspx

TdogKing

I will have to admit I've made dumber mistakes with my equipment, but life goes on....live and learn

TJ28012 Loc: Belmont, NC

Years ago, I watched as a wedding photographer picked up his backpack without zipping it up. About 6 high-dollar Nikkor lenses bounced down a set of concrete stairs. For the next 60 years, I have never owned or used a backpack. Every time I even consider one, that image comes to mind. I use a Domke style bag - holds lots and is easy to work from.

Fishdog Loc: Nanaimo B.C. Canada

magnetoman wrote:

Something to watch-out for: I use a Kata 3n1 backp... (show quote)

I was worried about that happening with my Lowpro backpack so I zap straped the one side closed. If I need to get in that side for some unforseen reason the zap strap is cheap and easily replaced.

magnetoman Loc: Purbeck, Dorset, UK

Thats an interestng concept, reckon they should catch-on.

mikemilton wrote:

Arrrgh... I've had cases with these types of issue... (show quote)

magnetoman Loc: Purbeck, Dorset, UK

Bet he found TdogKings philosophy a bit hard to swallow - makes me sweat just thinking about it!

TJ28012 wrote:

Years ago, I watched as a wedding photographer picked up his backpack without zipping it up. About 6 high-dollar Nikkor lenses bounced down a set of concrete stairs. For the next 60 years, I have never owned or used a backpack. Every time I even consider one, that image comes to mind. I use a Domke style bag - holds lots and is easy to work from.

Sheila Loc: Arizona or New York

Have a somewhat similar pack. I was forever opening the wrong side when I first got it. Had a small loop of orange material. Attached that to zipper pull on the side I wanted to open and haven't had a problem since. Any bright colored cord or lacing material would work fine. Helps avoid a lot of aggravation.

magnetoman Loc: Purbeck, Dorset, UK

Thanks for the tip - I'll adopt it forthwith

Sheila wrote:

Have a somewhat similar pack. I was forever opening the wrong side when I first got it. Had a small loop of orange material. Attached that to zipper pull on the side I wanted to open and haven't had a problem since. Any bright colored cord or lacing material would work fine. Helps avoid a lot of aggravation.

pills Loc: Memphis Tennessee

magnetoman wrote:

Something to watch-out for: I use a Kata 3n1 backp... (show quote)

Same thing happened to me with the same backpack. The drop was onto concrete cost $300 to repair the lens.lucky it was insured. Is thE backpack or the people who own them!!

Wolf-pack all the way Loc: location in Michigan

JRI not sure if your statement of why you stated you are vet still upsetting me or what. Your statement I had insurance comes cross as ha ha I was smart and you were not

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

magnetoman wrote:

Something to watch-out for: I use a Kata 3n1 backp... (show quote)

Two comments: there have quite a few reports of equipment falling from backpacks and bags because of operator error. Those things a great because of all their compartments, but if one compartment is not secured, it can lead to disaster.

You said that the UV filter was damaged as a result of the fall. Can we assume the the lens would have been damaged if the filter hadn't been there? That deserves a separate post. I use a filter for lens protection.

rowandjr Loc: New Jersey

AIRBORNE325 wrote:

JRI not sure if your statement of why you stated you are vet still upsetting me or what. Your statement I had insurance comes cross as ha ha I was smart and you were not

I got the same feeling thought here we go again.