backpack for 500 f/4 and body

[arash_hazeghi]

Hi guys,

what is the best backpack (best=very ligth, durable and water proof, really good ergonomic with two serious straps) that can carry a 500 f/4, body + grip and TC attached to the lens for 3+ mile hiking. The suitcase that comes with the lens is good for storage but not suable for field carrying.

Thanks

PS. backpack doesn't need to carry anything else, just 500 and body tight and light.

[Joe Milmoe]

There are lots of threads on which is best. I was stubborn and bought nearly all of them to test for myself.

My short answer would be - don't transport the lens with the body, espeically a teleconverter, attached. The lens mount is the weakest point and it is destined to break if you do this.

My top choice - Kiboko bag (can't attach the lens)
2nd- Lowepro 600AW

I haven't yet tried using the lens case that vertex custom makes for the McDonalds. It looks to be very big.

I don't like many of the other offerings, because they're a "starter" system, with required accessories. First buy the bag, then a harness, then the straps to attach the two, then the rain cover, etc.

[Alan Melle]

I love my Kiboko but it would be way overkill for carrying just the 500 with a body. For just my 600 with a body I still use an old Outpack Scopepack when I want to pack it a long way. I don't know if they can even be found anymore and it may be a bit large for the 500 but it sounds like the type of pack you are looking for. You might consider something like the Think Tank Glass Taxi for this combo.

[John Chardine]

If I'm carrying my 500 in a backpack it's usually a special enough occasion that I have an extra body and some other lenses so for me the Kiboko bag is perfect.

[Susan Griffith]

I know its a bit much but i use my Lowepro 600AW, but also have a few other things in it as well.

-Susan

[Roger Clark]

I've been using a lowepro phototrekker AW.

It comes with a rain cover, and without itm it is not waterproof. It is fine and I have carried it all over the world, but I would like something a little lighter.

Roger

[Ed Cordes]

I was using a lowepro phototrekker AW II for years, but the weight got to me as well. I have since gotten the Kiboko and love it. Just by switching bags I have saved 6 pounds! It is also more airline friendly.

[Luis Villablanca]

I use the Kinesis L511 case + the matching shoulder harness.
It comfortably fits a 500 f/4 + body + extender.

[Simon Bennett]

Arash, Lowepro Flipside 400 will snugly accommodate my 500mm + hood + 7d + 1.4x tc (not assembled), and the flash in outer pocket as well, see http://products.lowepro.com/product/...%20AW,2116.htm
Also see Marco's thread http://www.birdphotographers.net/for...ad.php?t=44962

[Sid Garige]

I use the Kinesis L511 case + the matching shoulder harness.
It comfortably fits a 500 f/4 + body + extender.

another vote for Kinesis. I have been using 511 with my 500 now and with 200-400 in the past.

[Bonnie Block]

I use the Kinesis L511 case + the matching shoulder harness.
It comfortably fits a 500 f/4 + body + extender.

another vote +1

[Don Hamilton Jr.]

Kiboko bag... hands down
Don

[Charles Glatzer]

If you just want a bag for the lens, body and a few odds and ends with a good and comfortable harness system that allows quick access to assembled equipment the Lowepro 600 AW bag wins hands down.

I have had the others and the loaded bag is not stable when hiking as it is with the Lowepro.

The Gura Gear Bag is great but will not hold an assembled 500 w/hood and body attached with the quick access you are requesting.

Chas

[Danny J Brown]

If I need to take a quick shot, I carry the rig on my shoulder because it takes to long to get it out of the bag, attached to the lens or not. Therefore, when hiking to a point where I want to shoot that is over 3 miles, with the 500, TC, 1D4 and a few odds and ends I use my lightweight (and very affordable) Think Tank Airport Ultralight (lens unattached). As I remember, I got the idea from Marina Scarr (I think) and it was one of the best purchases I ever made. I hated the Lowepro Lens Trekker 600 as it was such overkill with a bunch of useless airspace. That darn thing was huuuugggggeeeee!!!

Just my opinion,

DB