Back Pack Question

[Don Hamilton Jr.]

Guys, i think this was discussed, however i can't locate the thread. What says the group, on the best most comfortable backpacks... I use a canon 500 F4 on a wimberly, and carry that around on a rotational shoulder basis. However if i wish to catch BIF, and on the spot quick stuff,, i use the 100-400 on a another camera, any input on a backpack,, i found the canon, and velocity backpacks, just aren't comfortable. Thks for any real time expereince.I'm thinking lowe pro models... Thks don

[Klaus von Schwanebach]

Have you seen the new Expedition 9X at www.tamrac.com it's made for 500-600mm lenses.

[Don Hamilton Jr.]

Thks, i'll look into it, are you using one?
Don

[Klaus von Schwanebach]

No just saw it at the SW Expo in San Diego, it looked quite good, is about $285

klaus

[Craig Markham]

I've used a Lowepro Vertex 300 for two years and like it very much (fits me well, carries 35-40 lbs comfortably). The padded belt takes a good share of the weight off the shoulders. It will take a 500mm + 1D Mark III assembly plus an assortment of other lenses and accessories. Dimensions meet Domestic US flight carry-on limits (but won't fit in overhead compartments on smaller regional jets). Over the shoulder tripod carry is OK, but adds to the shoulder pressure already exerted by the pack. When using an auxilliary camera, with my 100-400mm, I hook the lens foot over the pack's cross-chest strap (with camera strap over my head for safety) -- very handy for quick access, and it counter-balances the pack load a little bit as well.

[Don Hamilton Jr.]

Hi Craig, good stuff, as i'm looking to determine the best way to walk a mile or two with the wimberly & 500mm, and also have another canon-body with my 100-400 attached, and ready to go , example you're trekking along, and bam, there's an osprey diving infront of me, and here i stand trying to open tripod, and get 500m on him...Can you say GONE...
this is where the 100-400 on another body might be the answer. Also i saw the rapid strap idea... just trying to not spend money; to only leave the newest acquistion in the closet...if you follow! :) :)

[Buddy Eleazer]

I'm a little confusted as to whether you want a bag to carry the 500 and the 100-400 all at once. To do this, I use the Lowepro PhotoTrekker, but long for a Gura Gear Kiboko bag.
I summarized a few other real large options at my safari site. The link is here.

[Don Hamilton Jr.]

Hello buddy, i'm actually confused now! :) :) Hey, actually, you have a point here... i guess i'm looking for a better way to hike trails, or carry for long distances the 500mm, and another camera body with a 100-400mm, as the wimberly/tripod over the shoulder is not healthy for your body. I just read the review on the gura gura bag.. most impressive.. wow is it costly... anyone have any thoughts on the Kiboko backpack???
Thks
Don