Hi guys and gals- I have a couple of nice Lowepro bags but neither will take my 500 F4. I have not found this a major issue up to this point but in a couple of weeks I'm in the field with the lens and this will require a hike. I would also like something to pack it in to get out of the weather.
OK, the easy answer is throw some money at it and buy a new camera bag big enough to fit. I would rather not do this at this time and would prefer to find something that would take the lens, is cushioned ideally, and I can just sling over my shoulder, but doesn't cost an arm and a leg. I suppose I could find a daypack out there that would take the lens and could add some cushioning myself.
I would recommend a backpack..I use a Burton (snowboard) photo backpack, that is a real backpack, full adjustable, aluminum frame, etc etc. The nice thing is that since its not a photo brand the price isnt sky high as normal camera gear. I think paid $200 or so. It has an removable convertable normal velcro sectioned photo compartment that fits a 500 and plenty of gear.
For longer hiking and air travel I got the Think Tank "Airport Acceleration" backpack. It might be more than you want right now but with reversed hood it takes the 500 attached to the camera body and much more. If that is too big, the Glass Taxi might be a good choice, too. If that is more than you want, I'm sure every bigger backpack would suffice and you could cushion it with some items of clothing or towels.
I just bought a Lowepro 600 AW. My MK 3 with 500 f/4 +1.4 tc with hood reversed fits perfectly in it...it has the backpack straps with a waist belt and is very comfortable for hiking.
Thanks Don and others. You were lucky to find one of the 600 AWs as Lowepro have discontinued them so I am told by the Canadian distributor. Apparently they are releasing an updated version in the fall.
John....I got mine off the Buy & Sell over on FM.....the guy bought it and never used it...They are discontinued but I bet you could find one by posting a WTB on one of the forums.
carrier bag for the Canon 500 F4
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