Jerrin1 wrote:
Instead of a backpack have you considered the Cotton Carrier G3 version? I used to carry my Canon 7D mark II plus Canon 300mm f2.8L IS on my earlier version of the Cotton Carrier and it was really comfortable to wear. Even better is the fact that the camera/lens is always readily available to take a shot. I used to carry my Canon system in a LowePro Flipside AW500, then transfer the camera and lens onto my Cotton Carrier once I arrived at my chosen location. I was able to carry it in this fashion for up to 7 hours/15 miles a day, 5 days a week. A velcro strap stops the lens from swinging like a pendulum and it is possible to actually run quite fast without issue. I now have the G3 version, which is brilliant.
Instead of a backpack have you considered the Cott... (
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Thanks Jerrin1. I am familiar with Cotton Carrier but I forgot to mention in my OP that I need the backpack to house all my gear for carry-on air travel as well which complicates my requirements. I remember checking the AW500 but for some reason I discounted that bag. I am looking at the specs again and it may work for my needs.
Thanks,
Goober
Dave Sr
Loc: Nazareth, Pennsylvania
I like a CLIK with a very nice waist band that transfers most of the weight from the shoulders to the waist, necessary for any distance hiking. It is also just the correct size for most airlines' size limits for carry-on luggage. Check out the Clik Elite CE640BU .
TomV wrote:
I use a Lowepro Lens Trekker AW 600 III for my Sony 500mm f/4. With the hood inverted, there is a velcro'd shelf that you can add another body, small lens. Plenty of room inside to place another lens that is protected in its own case.
Thanks Tom. I did find the AW 600 yesterday at a camera store but too large to meet aircraft specs for carry-on.
Thanks,
Goober
tomad
Loc: North Carolina
I'm hauling a 600mm (1200 with clear image zoom) around in the woods, and it's very easy.... Sony RX10 IV!
If you can afford that monster, I would think you can afford to have a custom case made for it! I am surprised Sony or any other manufacturer of such high value glass doesn’t offer a case specifically made for such an investment.
Stan
47greyfox
Loc: on the edge of the Colorado front range
If you're backpacking, would not a smaller variable lens be better? A lot less to lug around.
Dik
StanMac wrote:
If you can afford that monster, I would think you can afford to have a custom case made for it! I am surprised Sony or any other manufacturer of such high value glass doesn’t offer a case specifically made for such an investment.
Stan
The lens is supplied in a very nice custom fitted hard case. However not convenient for travel and field use as would still require another bag for 2 bodies, converters and additional lenses.
Goober.
You may not like what I do but I’ll share as food for thought. I’ve never purchased a “camera backpack.” I am an avid cyclist so I simply use an Osprey brand cyclist’s backpack that I’ve had for several years. Since it’s designed to pad your back from stowed items it has a fairly thick foam pad sewn inside. It does not have velcro compartment dividers like a true photorapher’s pack. I cushion lenses like a Nikon 300mm with an old thick wool sock. I can fit an ancient Nikon 800mm f8 122mm objective, the 300mm and a full frame Nikon body, gimbal head & a few filters, TC, cleaning supplies etc inside. I carry the tripod over shoulder with a sling strap. There’s no limit to your options. But I would suggest you go to a store with your typical load and try some out. Until you shoulder your load you won’t know what you find most comfortable. Would you buy a car sight unseen without a test drive? Happy hunting & good luck.
When I hike I take my F Stop Anja backpack. These bags are outstanding and use an internal camera unit that fits all forms of lenses. I know that they offer a unit that fits large lens. Also, LowePro makes a bag that fits very large lenses.
You might just want to buy yourself a mule.............
tracs101 wrote:
My solution for all that gear.
Another is to hire a Sherpa.
Fotoartist wrote:
Or a wife.
Well aren't they the sam.... Never mind. I am not going on record with that thought!
I haven't heard of them for years but "Better Birder" made a backpack for scopes that also worked great for long lens.
I use to carry a 500F4 with camera attached. It had four large outside pockets and I could easily put a small camera (FM, FM1) in one and a small lens in another.
It was very comfortable to hike with.
Good luck on your search.
Goober wrote:
Any of you wildlife photographers hauling a 400mm f2.8 around in the woods?
I just received my new Sony fe400 2.8 lens and now having a challenge to figure out how to haul it around in the field. I need a backpack to carry the lens with body attached as well as an additional body and two more lenses. Apprears to be limited backpacks designed for this and I have sent hours on the internet massaging the specs to find something suitable. I have been to a couple decent size brick and mortar camera shops but they don’t stock a bag like I need.
So far, I am settled on the Think Tank Airport Commuter as my best bet.
Does anyone have direct experience with this bag and a 400 2.8 or can you recommend another bag that works?
The biggest problem is the large diameter of the lens and hood which is even larger than the 500 and 600 mm Lenses.
I realize my best bet would be to make a trip to B & H or Adorama but I am trying to avoid that.
Your experience and suggestions would be very much appreciated.
Thanks,
Goober
Any of you wildlife photographers hauling a 400mm ... (
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